Leading integrated telco company PLDT, Inc. (PLDT) has reiterated its commitment to support local government units (LGUs) in their thrust to serve their citizens better by providing reliable connectivity and technology solutions and support their digitalization initiatives as mandated by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
In a panel discussing how internet connectivity improves good governance in cities, municipalities and provinces, PLDT Enterprise Assistant Vice President and Head of Corporate Relationship Management Dennis Magbatoc underscored the importance of investing in network infrastructure to enable the LGUs and their constituents with digital platforms for their online transactions, e-payments, etc.
The panel was part of a conference organized by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) projects – Better Access and Connectivity (BEACON) activity and Cities for Enhanced Governance and Engagement (CHANGE) project.
"The PLDT Group has a vital role in nation-building, and we continually improve ourselves, our network, and our infrastructure so that we can continue to support local government units and the Filipinos across the country," Magbatoc said.
Magbatoc added that PLDT's investments have enabled the Group to provide better services and extend the reach of their broadband and wireless networks to the farthest corners of the country.
Commenting on the speeches of his fellow panelists, who shared their digital transformation experiences from their respective cities and municipalities, Magbatoc said: "It is good to hear that city governance or e-governance is more than just about stable internet. The role of LGUs in reviewing the policies, implementation, processes and even acquisition of efficient ICT systems cannot be emphasized enough."
Network-related initiatives made up the bulk of the ₱89 billion spend for 2021. Capex guidance for 2022 is ₱85 billion.
PLDT operates the country's most extensive fiber infrastructure, which was at 837,900 kilometers as of end-June 2022. This fiber infrastructure also supports Smart's mobile network, which provides 3G, 4G/LTE and 5G to customers from Batanes to Tawi-Tawi.
