PLDT, Smart continue to expand fiber and LTE reach and capacity

PLDT and Smart have expanded the reach and capability of their fixed and wireless networks across the country.

As of August, PLDT’s fiber infrastructure spans 328,500 kilometers, increasing it by up to 19% compared to 2019. It boosts its fiber-powered fixed network to 8.1 million homes up to 12% from last year.  Meanwhile, Smart has further expanded its LTE rollout increasing the number of LTE base stations on its network 15% to 28,200 as of the latter part of August. This accelerated network rollout has included the inclusion of LTE sites at Pag-Asa Island, Palawan, and the town of Kawayan in the island province of Biliran.

The network expansion consists of physical installations of sites with software systems upgrades which can be done remotely. Despite the pandemic, PLDT has increased its target capital expenditures for 2020 back up to PHP 70 billion or more.

“Our sustained investments in our network over the years have put us in a strong position to meet the surge in demand for our services amid the pandemic,” PLDT-Smart senior vice president for Network Planning and Engineering, Mario G. Tamayo, shared.

Previously, Smart expanded its 5G network in the key cities of Visayas and Mindanao.

PLDT and Smart shall continue its efforts to continue its rollout following the easing of lockdown restrictions.

Source: PLDT