PLDT, Smart roll out OneTrust-powered privacy program, set new SEA benchmark for data protection

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By TechWatch PH Staff

PLDT Inc. and Smart Communications are raising the bar for data privacy in Southeast Asia as they launch a unified customer consent program designed to give Filipinos unprecedented control over how their personal information is used.

The PLDT Group has selected OneTrust, an AI-ready governance platform, to power its new privacy framework. By integrating the OneTrust Universal Consent and Preference Management (UCPM) solution across PLDT Home and Smart’s nationwide networks, the telco giant now enables more individuals to manage their privacy choices than any other operator in the region.

Smart currently serves more than 59 million wireless subscribers, while PLDT Home connects 3 million fixed-line customers. Through OneTrust’s UCPM, these users can now directly access, update, and manage their consent preferences through a centralized system—ensuring that any data sharing within the PLDT ecosystem happens only with their explicit approval.

PLDT and Smart said the new platform not only strengthens customer protection, but also improves how the company delivers relevant content, services, and personalization. The solution helps streamline compliance, enhance direct marketing accuracy, and provide deeper insights while adhering to strict privacy standards.

“Our commitment to privacy by design is reinforced through UCPM. It empowers our customers by giving them control over their data while positioning us to enable responsible data monetization in the future,” said Leah Jimenez, Chief Data Privacy Officer of PLDT and Smart.

OneTrust is a leading entity in the privacy technology sector, offering out-of-the box solutions that automate privacy operations to scale compliance and reduce regulatory risk.

Ojas Rege, SVP and General Manager at OneTrust, said the PLDT Group’s implementation sets a new regional standard for consent management.

“Consent drives personalization and, therefore, value for customers, enabling long-term connection and loyalty. This shows companies can prioritize customer trust and ensure responsible data use while accelerating innovation,” he said.

The initiative forms part of PLDT and Smart’s broader push to strengthen cybersecurity and data privacy across the organization, reinforcing their goal of delivering a safer and more personalized digital experience for millions of Filipinos.