Protecting telco infrastructure is crucial in ensuring that connectivity and digital services remain accessible and reliable for millions of Filipinos. As such, leading integrated telco network PLDT Inc (PLDT) and its wireless arm Smart Communications, Inc (Smart) have intensified efforts to combat cable and telco equipment theft by strengthening partnerships with local government units, police and communities nationwide.
PLDT and Smart, through their Asset Protection and Security Risk Governance (APSRG) Group, have tightened their collaboration with barangays through the ramped-up rollout of the barangay-based asset protection project Bayanihan, with sessions conducted in Makati, Dagupan, Davao City, Liloan, Calamba, General Santos, Quezon City, Rodriguez in Rizal, Pasay, Cagayan de Oro, and Dasmarinas in 2025.
"Our intensified collaboration with barangays this year highlights the importance of bringing communities into the conversation when it comes to protecting our network,” said Leo Gonzales, Vice President and Head of Property, Facilities, and Asset Resiliency Management at PLDT and Smart. "Every cable and piece of equipment we safeguard helps pave the way for uninterrupted connectivity for their own homes and neighborhoods, as well as for businesses and institutions that rely on us daily. By working hand in hand with local leaders and residents, we are not simply preventing theft, we are also ensuring that digital services remain accessible and reliable for millions of Filipinos."
Col. Wilfredo Gonio, Head of PLDT and Smart’s Security Central Command & Administration Center, APSRG, added: "On the ground, these partnerships make a real difference. When barangays and local authorities actively help monitor, report incidents, or apprehend thieves, we can respond faster and prevent bigger disruptions. This shared sense of responsibility empowers communities to protect the infrastructure that keeps them connected."
The initiative is part of the telco leader’s broader response to persistent theft and vandalism targeting its network. In 2024 alone, nearly 1,000 loss incidents were recorded, mostly involving copper cables. In certain areas in Manila, theft occurs as often as every three days.
In addition to material losses, these attacks also affect customers by disrupting services, leading to complaints and revenue loss. As such, the program aims to not just deter theft and vandalism, but also empower residents with tools and knowledge to protect their communities, both physically and digitally.
Reflecting the impact of PLDT's asset protection efforts, the company recorded a 34% drop in apprehension incidents and a 24% decrease in apprehended suspects from January to November 2025, compared to the same period last year.
This underscores the effectiveness of the Group’s strengthened security measures, which include efforts to deter theft before it occurs. These results mark a critical milestone in the Group’s mission to curb losses, maintain service reliability, and uphold public trust.
Through its network protection and community security initiatives, the PLDT group is helping create safer, more resilient communities where digital inclusion can thrive, through a community-centric approach that strengthens trust, fosters accountability, and ensures that technology continues to serve as a bridge to progress for millions of Filipinos.
These initiatives are also aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure, and SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities.
