PLDT positions PH as telco stress test, highlights network overhaul at MWC 2026

Mobile World Congress 2026 became a platform for PLDT Inc. to showcase how operating in the Philippines is shaping its approach to network transformation, with the company framing the country as one of the most demanding environments for telecom operators.

Speaking before a global audience, Ariel C. Medina, head of network quality and service assurance at PLDT and Smart Communications, said the group is shifting its strategy toward a customer-centric model that prioritizes real-world user experience over traditional network metrics.

“Our guiding principle is simple: The customer is our North Star. Every investment, every process, and every innovation we pursue must ultimately answer one goal, and that is to improve the digital experience of Filipinos and enable their fuller, more connected lives,” Medina said.

PLDT said it has been modernizing its fixed and wireless networks by strengthening analytics, automation, and monitoring systems, allowing teams to detect and address issues faster. The company is also transitioning from reactive troubleshooting to a more predictive and experience-aware approach, aiming to better reflect how services such as video streaming, gaming, messaging, and voice calls perform from the user’s perspective.

Medina said this shift has contributed to improvements in key network indicators, including VoLTE and 5G drop rates, as well as 5G uplink throughput, alongside continued growth in data traffic in 2025.

He noted that the Philippines presents unique operational challenges due to its geography, climate, and exposure to natural risks, which require sustained investment and adaptive engineering.

“The Philippines is an operator’s ultimate stress test,” Medina said, pointing to the combined impact of dispersed islands, extreme weather conditions, and seismic activity on network resilience.

PLDT said these conditions have pushed the group to refine its systems and processes while fostering a culture focused on continuous problem-solving. The company also emphasized the importance of collaboration with global industry players to improve network performance and share best practices.

The group added that its ongoing investments are aligned with efforts to expand digital access nationwide and support broader development goals, including contributions to United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly in advancing infrastructure and innovation.