Smart fires up new Palawan site to support Bayanihan SIM program

• Smart’s recent activation of a new site in San Vicente, Palawan is aligned with the company’s continued support  of the government’s thrust to bring reliable internet access closer to more Filipinos in last‑mile communities

Smart Communications, Inc. has activated a new cell site in San Vicente, Palawan, strengthening mobile connectivity in the municipality as part of efforts to bring reliable internet access to more last-mile communities.

The new tower is expected to support the government’s Bayanihan SIM initiative, which provides free SIM cards with mobile data to Filipinos in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas.

“By bringing fast and reliable mobile connectivity to towns like San Vicente in Palawan, we enable more Filipinos in underserved communities to access opportunities in education, livelihood, and innovation,” said Menardo G. Jimenez, PLDT chief operating officer and network head.

Jimenez, who also represents PLDT in the Presidential Private Sector Advisory Council, said the rollout reflects the value of collaboration between the private sector and government in expanding digital access.

“This milestone also highlights the power of strengthened collaboration with our government partners, so that together, we can deliver meaningful connectivity solutions that accelerate inclusive development,” he said.

At Old Caruray Elementary School, Smart and the Department of Information and Communications Technology distributed around 1,500 SIM cards with prepaid load to government-identified beneficiaries, including students.

Under the program, beneficiaries will receive 25GB of data per month for 12 months, fully subsidized by the government.

PLDT also turned over a School-in-a-Bag package through the PLDT-Smart Foundation to Old Caruray Elementary School, represented by principal Alma Dalipe.

The portable digital classroom includes a laptop for the teacher, 10 tablets pre-loaded with Department of Education curriculum-based learning materials and interactive educational applications, a Smart Bro LTE Pocket WiFi device, and expandable storage.

The tower launch was attended by Palawan Gov. Amy Roa Alvarez, Palawan 1st District Rep. Rosalie A. Salvame, San Vicente Mayor Ramir R. Pablico, Barangay Chair Bernardo M. Borja, officials from the DICT, National Telecommunications Commission, Department of Education, and PLDT Enterprise executives Ruby Montoya and Euan Toralballa.

The Bayanihan SIM program supports the government’s nationwide digital connectivity push. It is enabled by Smart’s mobile network and supported by PLDT’s fiber infrastructure.

PLDT said its continued investment in fixed and wireless networks forms part of its broader commitment to improve customer experience and expand connectivity across the country.