TELECOM | PLDT, Smart unveil multi-front push for digital inclusion, cybersecurity, sustainable connectivity
From satellite connectivity to cyber-resilient networks and enterprise innovations, PLDT and Smart’s initiatives reflect a unified goal: ensuring every Filipino benefits from secure, sustainable, and inclusive digital access.
From empowering microentrepreneurs and protecting consumers against online fraud to expanding green networks and satellite connectivity, PLDT Inc. and its wireless arm Smart Communications are rolling out a series of initiatives that reinforce their leadership in digital transformation, cybersecurity, and sustainability across the Philippines.
These efforts, spanning partnerships, infrastructure programs, and advocacy work, underscore the group’s goal of building a safer, more inclusive digital economy aligned with the country’s long-term development agenda.
Empowering MSMEs
At the Department of Social Welfare and Development–National Capital Region’s (DSWD NCR) “Sustainable LiveliTalks: Master Class,” PLDT and Smart spotlighted their eBizNovation and BeCyberSmart programs, which help micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) harness digital tools and safeguard their businesses online.
The event featured success stories such as Abbie Ricohermoso, owner of Josefina’s Homemade Food, who expanded her family business through social media and e-commerce with the help of PLDT, Smart, and TikTok Shop.
“We believe that digital inclusion is key to uplifting communities and enabling MSMEs to thrive,” said Stephanie Orlino, assistant vice president and head of stakeholder engagement at PLDT and Smart. “Through programs like eBizNovation, we equip entrepreneurs with the tools and knowledge they need to succeed in the digital space.”
Beyond OTPs
PLDT Enterprise is pioneering a safer and more seamless way to secure online transactions through SmartSafe SilentAccess, a next-generation authentication system developed with global technology firm Nabstract.
The innovation replaces traditional one-time passwords (OTPs) with real-time, network-powered verification using Smart’s infrastructure—protecting users from phishing, SIM swapping, and man-in-the-middle attacks.
“With our GSMA Open Gateway API Certification, we’re taking bold steps toward future-proofing businesses with fraud-resistant solutions,” said Nico Alcoseba, first vice president and head of product management at PLDT Enterprise.
SilentAccess also aligns with Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas Circular No. 1213, which encourages financial institutions to move beyond SMS-based OTPs. It forms part of a broader SmartSafe fraud management API suite that will soon include solutions for SIM-swap detection, network verification, and Know-Your-Customer compliance.
Secure enterprise messaging
To strengthen enterprise communications, PLDT Enterprise has expanded collaborations through its Smart Messaging Suite.
It recently onboarded Burst SMS, a Known Group company, as an Application-to-Person (A2P) aggregator. With ISO27001 certification and 99.99% uptime, Burst SMS is expected to handle up to 12 million messages per month for retail, government, healthcare, and e-commerce clients.
PLDT Enterprise also renewed its decade-long partnership with Synermaxx Corporation, one of its first A2P aggregator clients. The expanded agreement includes Silent Authentication and colocation services at VITRO Clark, enhancing the reliability and scalability of Synermaxx’s messaging and digital services.
“These partnerships strengthen the integrity of domestic SMS traffic, reduce fraud, and protect consumer confidence in digital channels,” PLDT Enterprise said.
Next-level wireless
At its Wireless Product Summit in Santa Rosa, Laguna, PLDT Enterprise showcased its growing portfolio of wireless innovations under the theme “Driving Business Growth and Innovation through Next-Level Wireless Solutions.”
In partnership with Huawei, Samsung, and Soprano, the event introduced business leaders to Smart DigiForms, Smart IoT, 5G connectivity, and the Smart Bizload employee load management platform.
“South Luzon’s business community continues to grow rapidly,” said Jay Lagdameo, vice president and head of enterprise revenue group. “We are committed to supporting this momentum through next-level connectivity and digital tools that help them achieve success.”
Policy partnerships
PLDT and Smart joined forces with the Anti-Red Tape Authority (ARTA), Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), and other agencies to accelerate telecom infrastructure rollout under Executive Order 32, which streamlines tower and broadband permits.
“We already have the laws and policies to protect and empower us to deliver better service,” said ARTA Director General Ernesto Perez. “What we need now is stronger enforcement and collaboration.”
Menardo G. Jimenez, PLDT’s chief operating officer and head of network, emphasized that “connectivity today is no longer a luxury but a necessity.”
Fintech and satellite access
In a move to make connectivity and digital finance more accessible, Smart and Maya launched a partnership allowing users to buy load without fees and access the Maya app data-free.
“This collaboration goes beyond promos—it’s about breaking barriers to digital access,” said Lloyd Manaloto, first vice president for corporate marketing and strategy at Smart.
Meanwhile, Smart is working with Lynk Global to provide direct-to-device (D2D) satellite services—starting with SMS—to keep communities connected even in remote areas and during disasters.
“When it’s fully rolled out, we think this will transform rural and remote connectivity in the Philippines,” said Jimenez, who leads PLDT’s network operations.
Green networks
Supporting its decarbonization roadmap, Smart secured its first-ever green loan worth P2 billion from Metrobank to fund the expansion of its energy-efficient 5G network.
“By investing in energy-efficient technologies, we are pursuing business growth and efficiency while being mindful of our impact on the environment,” said Danny Yu, chief financial officer and chief risk management officer of PLDT and Smart.
The loan follows PLDT’s earlier P4-billion green financing in 2024 and supports its goal to cut Scope 1 and Scope 2 greenhouse gas emissions by 40% by 2030.
Toward a sustainable digital nation
From satellite connectivity to cyber-resilient networks and enterprise innovations, PLDT and Smart’s initiatives reflect a unified goal: ensuring every Filipino benefits from secure, sustainable, and inclusive digital access.
“These efforts are not just about technology,” the company said. “They’re about delivering meaningful connections that uplift lives, empower communities, and build a more resilient digital future for the Philippines.”
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