PLDT, Smart to offer improved network maintenance and operations

Good news, PLDT and Smart subscribers! Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has issued a new order, allowing telco companies to occupy a portion of the government Right of Way.

Through this newly issued Department Order No. 29 (DO 26), PLDT and Smart expect to improve their network maintenance and operations for an enhanced customer experience.

PLDT and Smart also revealed that the issuance of DO 29 can help them fast-track the rollout of their projects and ensure the timely maintenance of fiber infrastructure and cell sites.

Under the DO 29, the ICT Service providers can now “construct and undertake excavations and/or restoration work for ICT Infrastructure Projects within the allowable ROW limits of the national roads, as determined by the concerned District Engineering Office and subject to the guidelines provided in this Order.”

“PLDT and Smart are committed to working with the government in ensuring continuous service and a great experience for our customers as we keep them safe and connected amid the pandemic,” Alfredo S. Panlilio, Smart Communications President and CEO and PLDT Chief Revenue Officer stated.

“This collaboration with the government is part of PLDT and Smart’s initiatives to improve the maintenance and operations of our network facilities and advocate for the improvement of the regulatory environment to boost the country’s digital infrastructure,” Smart VP and Head of Regulatory Affairs Atty. Roy D. Ibay addressed.

“We thank the Anti-Red Tape Authority (ARTA), the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC), and the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) for espousing the interest of the telcos and paving the way for the issuance of DO 29,” Atty Aileen Regio, First Vice President and Head of PLDT’s Regulatory and Strategic Affairs shared.

Meanwhile, the DO 29 will cease after a lapse of 3 years starting March 23, 2021.