TELECOM | Bohol gets 11 new Smart cell sites
The newly activated sites are expected to strengthen services for Smart and TNT subscribers in areas where connectivity has been limited, supporting communication, online learning, tourism, local livelihoods, and emergency response.
Network coverage in two Bohol municipalities has expanded after PLDT wireless unit Smart Communications Inc. activated 11 new 4G/LTE sites in Maribojoc and Antequera, improving mobile connectivity for residents, businesses, and schools ahead of the opening of classes.
The newly activated sites are expected to strengthen services for Smart and TNT subscribers in areas where connectivity has been limited, supporting communication, online learning, tourism, local livelihoods, and emergency response.
Maribojoc is known for its fisheries sector and ecotourism attractions, while Antequera is recognized for its basket-weaving industry, a key source of livelihood for many residents.
Bohol 1st District Rep. John Geesnell “Baba” Yap welcomed the network expansion, saying improved connectivity would benefit communities that have long faced weak mobile coverage.
“For a long time, connectivity has been a challenge in some parts of these municipalities. With the activation of these new sites, we are enabling our constituents to stay connected, supporting their daily activities, livelihoods, and access to online education for our learners in time for the opening of classes. We thank Smart for supporting our digitalization efforts in the district,” Yap said.
Among those benefiting from the improved service is Monina Dela Cruz, a sari-sari store owner in Barangay Bantolinao, Antequera, who recently became a Smart Ka-partner retailer.
“Because of the improved signal in our area, I now have an additional source of income. I’m thankful for this opportunity and to be able to help my neighbors with their load needs,” Dela Cruz said, adding that reliable mobile service also helps residents communicate during emergencies and natural disasters.
Barangay Lagtangan councilor Katherine Bustaliño of Maribojoc said stronger connectivity would support work, education, and business activities in the community.
“This will greatly benefit our community. Whether for work, school, or business, we can now stay connected more easily through Smart and TNT’s enhanced connectivity and value-packed offers,” Bustaliño said.
Debbie Hu, Smart first vice president and group head of wireless network, said the rollout forms part of the company’s continuing network investments aimed at expanding mobile coverage in underserved communities.
The network expansion supports the PLDT Group’s broader efforts to improve digital connectivity and support the government’s digitalization initiatives through continued investments in telecommunications infrastructure.
