TELECOM | TNT levels up with faster network as MVP Group pushes AI initiatives, new digital services
Source: Smart Communications
TNT subscribers can expect smoother gaming, faster streaming and more responsive online activity after Ookla, a global network intelligence firm, recognized Smart—the network powering TNT—for delivering the country’s Best Mobile Latency for the first half of 2025.
Mobile latency measures how quickly data travels over a network. Lower latency provides faster response times, which are essential for mobile gaming, livestreams, and video calls. According to Ookla’s Speedtest Intelligence analysis covering Q1 to Q2 2025, Smart posted a median latency of 45.89 milliseconds across all network technologies.
“TNT’s value-packed services powered by an award-winning mobile network put it in the best position to bring fun or ‘saya’ to today’s generation of gamers, streamers and content creators,” said Lloyd R. Manaloto, Smart first vice president.
Smart Wireless Networks Head Debbie M. Hu said consistent performance remains the priority. “Behind every seamless game, binge-watching session or livestream is a strong and responsive network. We take pride in ensuring TNT subscribers enjoy lag-free connectivity for the activities that matter to them most,” she said.
With Smart’s upgraded network, TNT users can make real-time moves in competitive games, conduct smooth online live-selling sessions, stream videos without buffering, and attend virtual classes or meetings more reliably.
Customers can switch to TNT by purchasing a SIM or eSIM from accredited retailers or via the Smart Online Store. Users from other networks may also move to TNT without changing their mobile number through Mobile Number Portability.
MVP Group leaders examine AI’s role in decision-making, governance
Executives from companies under the MVP Group gathered at the Meralco Theater for the 2025 Corporate Governance Enhancement Session to assess how artificial intelligence can strengthen leadership and organizational decision-making.
The session, “Decision Intelligence and SuperCreativity: Leading in the Age of AI,” featured Cassie Kozyrkov, Google’s former chief decision scientist, and creativity expert James Taylor. Both emphasized that AI can improve outcomes only when guided by skilled leadership.
“AI is a leadership game,” Kozyrkov said, warning against overreliance on polished but inaccurate AI-generated work. She urged companies to teach employees better judgment and stronger evaluation skills.
Pangilinan reminded executives that adopting technology requires intention. “We just can’t simply adopt a technology because it’s sexy or trendy,” he said.
A panel moderated by PLDT’s Roby Alampay discussed AI’s impact on telecommunications, power and fintech. PLDT’s Blums S. Pineda said the group’s mandate is to accelerate transformation, while Meralco’s Rocky D. Bacani underscored the need for strong foundations in applications, infrastructure and data. Maya Bank President Angelo S. Madrid said AI is essential for securing digital financial services.
ACGES, now in its 19th year, serves as the group’s annual governance and leadership forum.
PLDT Enterprise, AWING, NTT test interactive wi-fi advertising platform
PLDT Enterprise has entered an exploratory partnership with AWING and NTT e-Asia to pilot a Wi-Fi-based advertising platform designed to enhance public connectivity and offer brands new location-aware marketing channels.
The platform displays relevant, non-intrusive ads when users log onto participating public Wi-Fi networks. The companies said this creates a more engaging access experience while giving businesses visibility in high-traffic areas such as malls, airports and cafés.
“As businesses continue to innovate, we want to help them elevate everyday customer touchpoints,” said Blums S. Pineda, PLDT and Smart senior vice president.
AWING CEO Nguyen Tien Dzung said the collaboration aims to introduce more sustainable and accessible digital tools. NTT EAST executive Reo Kusaka added that Japan’s experience shows how digital infrastructure can support community growth.
The pilot is available to select clients using PLDT’s BEYOND FIBER and Branch-In-A-Box solutions.
PLDT, Smart train students with disabilities
PLDT and Smart conducted an Android Accessibility Training program for 19 students with disabilities at Padre Gomez Elementary School in Manila, teaching them to use reading apps, math tools and built-in accessibility features for learning and daily tasks.
Developed with ATRIEV and the NORFIL Foundation, the five-day training formed part of Manila’s 69th Special Needs Education Week. Trainers from ATRIEV, many of whom have disabilities, demonstrated practical ways to use mobile devices as learning aids.
“Technology can be a great equalizer,” said Stephanie V. Orlino, assistant vice president at PLDT and Smart. DepEd Manila’s Amcy M. Esteban said the program supports the department’s inclusive education initiatives and the expansion of Inclusive Learning Resource Centers.
The program is part of PLDT and Smart’s IDEATe initiative, which promotes digital inclusion and supports the country’s commitments to the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
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