TELECOM | PLDT Group, Smart announce new partnerships, digital initiatives
Smart Infinity has partnered with SMEG Philippines to offer exclusive holiday rewards for premium postpaid members from November 21, 2025, to February 23, 2026. The campaign includes a raffle featuring SMEG appliances such as the FAB 5 Mini Refrigerator and the Espresso Coffee Machine with Grinder, along with other kitchen essentials.
Members may join by texting SMEG to 5858, registering through the Smart Infinity website or coordinating with their Relationship Manager. Raffle entries are given to customers who upgrade to higher-tier plans, add new lines or refer new subscribers under Plans 5000, 8000 and 9500. Winners will be announced on February 27, 2026.
Smart Infinity Head Tina D. Montinola said the collaboration aims to reward loyalty and enhance customer experiences during the holiday period.
VITRO Inc., BDO strengthen digital resilience
VITRO Inc., the PLDT Group’s data center unit, announced an expanded partnership with BDO Unibank to reinforce the bank’s digital backbone. BDO is enhancing its infrastructure to meet growing customer needs and is using VITRO’s data center network to support core banking systems, digital payments and other mission-critical services.
BDO Senior Vice President Paul Siy said the bank seeks to anticipate future digital requirements by investing in secure and resilient infrastructure, while VITRO President and CEO Victor S. Genuino said banks need partners that understand the scale of their operations.
The partnership includes BDO’s support for VITRO Sta. Rosa, the country’s first AI-ready hyperscale data center, positioning the Philippines for increased participation in the global digital economy.
PLDT joins PSAC effort to connect SUCs nationwide
PLDT is supporting the Private Sector Advisory Council, the DICT and CHED in a national initiative to improve internet access across state universities and colleges. Under the “Konektadong CHED” program, PLDT targets expanded connectivity for 220 SUCs by the first quarter of 2026, with plans to cover all 555 SUCs nationwide.
The initiative follows a 2022 project in which PLDT and the UNDP activated 1,000 free Wi-Fi access points in 220 higher education institutions. PLDT Chief Operating Officer Menardo G. Jimenez said digital connectivity in educational institutions is essential for national development and aligns with the company’s support for the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
PLDT Enterprise, ePLDT hold AI-driven retail workshop
PLDT Enterprise and ePLDT hosted the Intelligent Enterprise Workshop for Retail to help brands navigate AI, data and managed services. The session, supported by Google Cloud, brought together CXOs, CMOs and IT leaders facing challenges such as fragmented systems, scalability demands and the need for secure data strategies.
Corinne Funk-Zablan of PLDT Enterprise said retailers are entering an era that blends human interaction with technology-driven experiences. ePLDT’s Jerry Dy highlighted the role of managed services in enabling AI adoption and real-time insights.
The workshop also demonstrated case studies involving Google Cloud’s analytics and AI platforms, including predictive inventory and enhanced in-store experiences.
Innovation spotlight focuses on AI, cybersecurity for Startups
PLDT Enterprise led the latest Innovation Spotlight session on “Harnessing AI and Cybersecurity for Startups,” held in partnership with the US Embassy, YSEALI AMPLIFY 9.0, WASP, Fibers Collective and Pina Beauty PH. The event emphasized how AI tools and security frameworks can support early-stage companies.
Speakers Joie Cruz of Limitless Lab and Captain Caroline Nacional of the Women’s Alliance for Security and Peace discussed responsible technology use and the importance of digital safety. PLDT Enterprise Innovations Head Mickey Ruiz said startups must match agility with readiness as cyberthreats intensify.
The event also showcased PLDT Enterprise technologies such as SmartSafe, cybersecurity infrastructure and AI-enabled solutions designed for secure and scalable business growth.
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