TELECOM | PLDT, ARTA push faster telco rollout
The meeting aligns with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s call for improved public service delivery through digital transformation, as emphasized in his 2025 State of the Nation Address.
Source: PLDT
PLDT Inc. and its wireless unit Smart Communications are strengthening collaboration with government agencies to fast-track digital infrastructure development across the Philippines, with a focus on reaching underserved and remote communities.
In a recent meeting with the Anti-Red Tape Authority (ARTA), PLDT executives led by Atty. Pamela B. Felizarta, vice president and head of Joint Strategic Operations and Regulatory Affairs, met with ARTA Undersecretary Gerald C. Divinagracia to discuss reforms aimed at streamlining permitting processes. The goal is to address regulatory bottlenecks that slow the deployment of critical network infrastructure, particularly in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas (GIDAs).
The meeting aligns with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s call for improved public service delivery through digital transformation, as emphasized in his 2025 State of the Nation Address.
“We at PLDT believe that meaningful collaboration with agencies like ARTA is crucial to breaking down long-standing barriers to connectivity,” said Butch G. Jimenez, PLDT’s chief operating officer and representative to the Private Sector Advisory Council (PSAC). “By working together to advance clear, enabling policies, we can fast-track digital infrastructure rollout.”
Divinagracia highlighted the importance of public-private partnerships in modernizing infrastructure: “PLDT has been at the forefront of working with the government on these critical reforms. Our close partnership reflects a shared commitment to eliminating red tape and driving digital transformation across sectors.”
Key initiatives discussed include proposed amendments to the National Building Code to institutionalize a zero lease rate for telco equipment in government buildings. PLDT is also engaging with the Department of Information and Communications Technology and the Philippine Association of Building Officials to promote similar changes.
Another focus is the standardization of fees charged by electric cooperatives for energizing network infrastructure. PLDT is working with the National Electrification Administration to address inconsistent and excessive charges, which remain a barrier to rollout.
Since 2019, PLDT and Smart have partnered with ARTA, DICT, the National Telecommunications Commission, the Department of the Interior and Local Government, and other agencies to simplify telco-related permitting. The companies also contributed to the development of Executive Order No. 32, signed in 2023, which aims to streamline network construction and maintenance processes.
These efforts are part of PLDT’s broader push to support inclusive and future-ready connectivity in the Philippines. By continuing to work with government agencies and industry groups, the telco giant hopes to expand digital access and empower communities through improved infrastructure.
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