PLDT Inc. and Globe Telecom Inc. are accelerating their network expansion in key provinces to further improve their broadband services.
In a statement, PLDT said its wireless unit Smart Communications Inc. is enhancing its network in Quezon, firing up fifth generation (5G) base stations in nearly half of Quezon’s cities and municipalities.
Smart Long Term Evolution (LTE) is also available across Quezon, enabling high-speed mobile data service for customers with LTE handsets.
To maximize Smart’s mobile network, Quezon residents are encouraged to upgrade to 5G or LTE-enabled mobile or broadband devices.
The accelerated deployment of LTE and 5G across the country is part of PLDT and Smart’s broader initiative to deliver world-class customer experience to customers nationwide.
To support growing mobile data traffic, Smart has increased to 75,400 its total base stations nationwide as of end-December. Its mobile network is supported by PLDT’s fiber footprint, which was at 743,700 kilometers as of end-2021.
Meanwhile, Globe said it continues to accelerate cell site builds nationwide to meet its commitment of improving customer experience through better connectivity.
In September and October 2021, Globe built 195 new cell sites and upgraded 2,800 sites with LTE technology in 706 towns and cities across 81 provinces. This resulted in nearly one million more customers enjoying Globe’s services.
Globe said customers from the expanded and new sites reported improved network experience. Top areas are Bulacan, Cavite, National Capital Region (NCR) second district, Cebu and NCR fourth district.
Of these customers, 75 percent are heavy data users who reported a maximum speed increase of at least 50 percent in video streaming, web browsing and speed test, Globe said.
“At Globe, we continue to strive to deliver the best digital experience for our customers, and we do not stop on our network build efforts, despite the difficulties of the pandemic,” said Marge Dizon, Globe vice president for program delivery, network technical group.
