Leading integrated telco network PLDT Inc (PLDT), through its Asset Protection and Security Risk Governance (APSRG) Group, is further strengthening its on-ground partnerships with barangays in Metro Manila and nearby areas as part of intensified efforts to protect cables and telco equipment, especially amid the rise in cable cutting and theft incidents.

Recently, PLDT rolled out Project Bayanihan engagements in Barangay Longos, Malolos, Bulacan, and Barangay Alabang, Muntinlupa City, gathering barangay officials, security personnel, and community members for security dialogues aimed at safeguarding critical telecommunications infrastructure and ensuring the uninterrupted delivery of connectivity and digital services.

“Protecting our network requires close coordination not just within PLDT, but with local government units and the communities we serve,” said Leo A. Gonzales, Vice President and Head of Property, Facilities, and Asset Resiliency Management at PLDT. “Together in ‘Bayanihan’, we continue to strengthen these partnerships on the ground, helping safeguard vital telco assets, promoting cyber safety, and ensuring that our customers continue to enjoy reliable connectivity and digital services.”

In Barangay Longos, PLDT representatives led by APSRG North Luzon Asset Protection Division (APD) Head Jose Rainier Mendoza, met with barangay leaders and residents headed by barangay chair Rizaldy dela Cruz, to highlight the shared responsibility of securing telco assets. The session also promoted cyber safety awareness through PLDT and Smart’s #BeCyberSmart campaign videos, which featured real-life scenarios and practical tips to help residents guard against online scams and fraudulent activities.

Meanwhile, in Barangay Alabang, PLDT engaged barangay leaders and security personnel led by barangay kagawad Alicia Landrito and barangay police chief Lee Magpantay to address the rise in fiber cuts and theft incidents in the area. The security dialogue, helmed by PLDT GMM South APD Team Head Jonie Valle, together with Senior Asset Protection Specialist Vicente Della, focused on enhancing coordination between the barangay and PLDT’s on-ground security and repair teams. The discussion also encouraged participants to report incidents via PLDT’s dedicated hotlines for reporting security-related incidents (Hotline 164) and service concerns (Hotline 171).

Across both engagements, PLDT turned over Barangay iProtect items to support patrol and monitoring activities of barangay watchmen and police. PLDT Home and Smart representatives were also on-site in both barangays to provide quick customer assistance and address service-related queries.

Community effort to apprehend thieves

Col. Wilfredo Gonio (Ret), Head of PLDT and Smart’s Security Central Command & Administration Center, APSRG, added: "Enhanced cooperation with barangays also helps us actively monitor incidents and even apprehend thieves. With local authorities as our allies, we are able respond faster and prevent bigger disruptions, keeping our customers connected."

On top of multiple arrests, PLDT said it has also recovered a substantial volume of stolen network materials, thanks to ‘Bayanihan’. Based on regional reports, in the second half of 2025 alone, the total estimated value of recovered items by PLDT’s APDs reached approximately ₱18 million, underscoring the combined efforts of field teams, law enforcement partners, and community stakeholders to prevent service disruptions and protect PLDT’s critical infrastructure.

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.