Technology creates its greatest impact when it helps students learn, enables livelihoods, keeps communities connected during disasters, and makes the digital world safer for the youth.
This people-centered approach earned the PLDT Group twin honors at the 2026 Asia CEO Awards, where it was named Technology Company of the Year and received Circle of Excellence honors for CSR Company of the Year.
The Technology Company of the Year recognition reflects the Group’s continuing strides in digital infrastructure that supports Filipinos across the country. As of end-June 2026, the PLDT Group’s fiber network spanned approximately 1.3 million cable kilometers across domestic and international routes. The Group is also expanding the digital infrastructure needed to support the country’s growing technology ecosystem. Through VITRO Santa Rosa, the Philippines’ first AI-ready hyperscale data center, the PLDT Group provides infrastructure designed to support the increasing demand for cloud, AI, and other digital services.
New network sites have helped enable online learning in far-flung communities, support local enterprises, and help homes, businesses, schools, and government units make greater use of digital tools and services.
“The real measure of technology is not simply how advanced it is, but how meaningfully it improves people’s lives,” said Menardo “Butch” G. Jimenez, Jr., PLDT Chief Operating Officer. “At PLDT Group, we believe technology should create opportunities, strengthen communities, and make a meaningful difference. These recognitions affirm our responsibility to keep building a more connected Philippines and creating value for our customers, our communities, and our country.”
Beyond connectivity, PLDT and Smart put their technology, expertise, and partnerships to work in areas that directly affect communities. In 2025, digital skills training reached over 5,600 MSME and cooperative representatives and close to 2,000 smallholder farmers, while more than 70,000 Filipinos received education on online safety and cybersecurity. AI learning initiatives also reached teachers, students, entrepreneurs, local government personnel, and other underserved sectors.
The PLDT Group, represented by Nico Alcoseba, PLDT Enterprise FVP and Head of Product Management and Innovations, and Steph Orlino, AVP and Head of Stakeholder Engagement, took home twin honors at the 2026 Asia CEO Awards: Technology Company of the Year and CSR Company of the Year Circle of Excellence.
These efforts also extend to helping communities prepare for and respond to disasters, particularly those in geographically isolated or vulnerable areas. Through technology, connectivity, and partnerships, PLDT and Smart help strengthen access to information and essential services during emergencies.
Protecting children online is another important part of this work. PLDT and Smart have prevented access to more than 213 billion malicious domains and blocked more than 2.3 million URLs linked to harmful online content since June 2021, helping create a safer digital environment for young people.
Together, these efforts reflect the PLDT Group’s continuing commitment to turn technology and connectivity into meaningful connections that help Filipinos learn, earn, and stay safe.
The 17th Asia CEO Awards, held recently at the Manila Marriott Grand Ballroom, recognizes outstanding leaders and organizations across Philippine business.
