PLDT, MMDA Join Forces to Safeguard Telco Infra

Leading integrated telco network PLDT Inc (PLDT) is teaming up with the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) to safeguard telco infrastructure, especially amid road digging and excavation activities.

“PLDT is collaborating more closely with the MMDA and its acting chair Atty Don Artes to ensure that fiber optic cables are not accidentally damaged during road works,” said Atty Joan A. De Venecia-Fabul, PLDT First Vice President, Deputy Chief Legal Counsel, and Head of Regulatory and Strategic Affairs.

Accidental fiber cuts due to construction works are among the causes of service interruptions, affecting subscribers.

“We look forward to working hand-in-hand with MMDA and the government in crafting protocols for prior coordination and alignment before excavation permits are issued and diggings are done to ensure that service interruptions due to accidental damage to telco cables are avoided,” she added.

This collaboration is in line with PLDT's long-standing partnership with Government and industry stakeholders in helping safeguard telco infrastructure and equipment to ensure service delivery and elevate the quality of customer experience.

PLDT and its wireless arm Smart Communications, Inc (Smart) have also been working closely with the Anti-Red Tape Authority, local government units, and other government agencies in efforts to streamline the permitting process to fast-track the rollout of telco infrastructure across the country.

These initiatives are aligned with PLDT and Smart's efforts to help the government narrow the digital divide, bringing the benefits of the internet and digital services closer to more Filipinos nationwide, and contributing to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDG), particularly on SDG 9 – Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure.