PLDT targets over 3,500 barangays in expanded rural internet rollout

Thousands of previously unconnected barangays across the Philippines may soon gain internet access as PLDT intensifies its rural connectivity expansion efforts in coordination with government agencies.

The initiative aims to bring connectivity to more than 3,500 barangays, particularly in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas (GIDAs), as part of broader efforts to expand digital access for education, livelihood opportunities, public services, and local businesses.

PLDT said the expansion is being carried out in close coordination with the Department of Education, Department of the Interior and Local Government, and Department of Information and Communications Technology, among other agencies, to help accelerate network deployment nationwide.

According to the company, the initiative is expected to support online learning, improve access to government services, and enable more communities and businesses to participate in the country’s growing digital economy.

“Strategic collaboration with government allows us to overcome long-standing challenges in infrastructure deployment. When public and private sectors work in sync, we can speed up connectivity rollouts and ensure that even the most remote areas benefit from the country’s digital transformation,” said Roderick S. Santiago, Head of Network Strategy and Architecture at PLDT and Smart.

PLDT said the latest expansion efforts build on years of collaboration with government agencies and industry stakeholders aimed at reducing regulatory barriers that have slowed down telecommunications infrastructure deployment.

Since 2019, PLDT and Smart have been working with the Anti-Red Tape Authority, DICT, the National Telecommunications Commission, local government units, and industry groups to streamline permitting processes related to telecommunications infrastructure.

The company noted that these efforts contributed to the implementation of Executive Order No. 32, signed in 2023, which streamlined the construction, installation, repair, operation, and maintenance of telecommunications and internet infrastructure nationwide.

PLDT said sustained investments in network expansion and infrastructure upgrades remain part of its broader strategy to help bridge the country’s digital divide, particularly in underserved and remote communities.

The company added that it continues to push for long-term reforms and stronger public-private collaboration to support faster and more inclusive connectivity rollout across the country.