Original article: Connectivity for all: PLDT, Smart back DICT Roadshow in Tawi-Tawi
Tawi-Tawi, the Philippines’ southernmost province, was one of the key stops in the Department of Information and Communications Technology’s (DICT) ICT Month 2025 Roadshow. The PLDT Group joined the celebration themed Walang Iwanan sa Digital Bayanihan, reaffirming its commitment to connecting every Filipino, ensuring that even the most isolated communities gain access to opportunities, education, and essential digital services.
“As the country’s fully integrated telecommunications and digital services provider, the PLDT Group is uniquely positioned to enable the Philippines’ full digital journey—from connectivity to cloud, from data centers to cybersecurity, and from smart governance to inclusive innovation,” said Jiggs Calixto, AVP and Mindanao Customer Relationship Management Head of PLDT Enterprise, in ceremonies attended by government officials, community leaders, and private sector partners to demonstrate their shared commitment to ensure that no Filipino is left behind in the country’s digital transformation.
PLDT and Smart back DICT’s ICT Month 2025 Roadshow in Tawi-Tawi, reaffirming their commitment to bridging the digital divide through inclusive connectivity.
“We bring our warmest regards and strongest commitment to connecting every Filipino, no matter how far or remote. We believe that Tawi-Tawi, like every other part of the country, deserves to be part of the digital future. That is the heart of Digital Bayanihan,” Calixto added.
The PLDT group continues to invest in its integrated fixed and wireless networks, data centers, and submarine cables, in support of the Private Sector Advisory Council's Digital Infrastructure project, which aims to expand connectivity in far-flung regions. As part of this commitment, PLDT and Smart announced earlier this year that they are firing up around 200 new sites to serve remote locations across the Philippines, including geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas.
By building new cell sites and enhancing existing ones, the telcos aim to improve digital accessibility for millions of Filipinos - unlocking opportunities in education, livelihood, and essential services such as online banking and e-commerce. PLDT and Smart, through PLDT Enterprise, are also working closely with the government to streamline permitting processes and fast-track rural deployment.
This initiative aligns with United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure, which promotes resilient infrastructure, inclusive and sustainable industrialization, and PLDT and Smart remain committed to using their resources to help build a digitally inclusive Philippines where no one is left behind.
