PLDT and its wireless arm Smart Communications have further expanded their fixed and mobile networks nationwide in 2021, powering hybrid workplaces and online learning, and enabling businesses to thrive in the new normal.
Ramping up efforts to reach more homes across the country in 2021, PLDT’s fiber footprint expanded by 73% from the end of 2020 to 743,700 kilometers, with homes passed at nearly 14 million. This is significantly higher than 9 million homes passed at the end of 2020. In 2021, PLDT built 1.7 million ports in order to provide more homes with fiber connectivity, with 5.77 million ports to date, the largest number of ports in the Philippines.
Completing PLDT’s network are its robust and resilient domestic and international cable systems with capacities of 55TB and 16TB, respectively. These connect the different islands to each other, and the Philippines to the world.
Meanwhile, to support growing mobile data traffic, Smart has increased to 75,400 its total base stations nationwide as of end-December, supporting its 3G, 4G/LTE and 5G subscribers from Batanes to Tawi-Tawi. This includes around 7,200 5G base stations – the largest 5G network in the Philippines.
“Nearly two years into this pandemic, more activities continue to shift online. This requires us to be unrelenting with our network initiatives despite pandemic restrictions and natural disasters, such as the recent Super Typhoon Odette. Our network has, in turn, enabled more Filipinos to access the internet to stay connected to their families, keep their livelihoods and businesses, engage in online learning, and participate in e-commerce,” said Alfredo S. Panlilio, PLDT Inc and Smart Communications President and CEO.
Read More: Ookla: PLDT Home is fastest internet provider in the Philippines in 2021
The accelerated deployment of LTE, 5G, and fiber across the country is part of PLDT and Smart’s broader initiative to deliver a world-class experience to their customers nationwide.
