PLDT Inc. has obtained a financial grant to fund the training program for the rollout of the fifth generation (5G) and fiber network in the country.
PLDT was awarded a $1-million grant by the US Trade and Development Agency (USTDA) to fund the training program that would further equip the company with certified professionals in its preparation to roll out and manage a modernized network for 5G and other advanced systems.
“This landmark grant agreement between PLDT and the USTDA for training purposes will enable PLDT to utilize fully the cutting-edge technologies that Cisco will deploy to transform our fiber transmission network into a 5G-ready infrastructure,” said Manuel Pangilinan, PLDT chairman and chief executive officer.
“This will definitely benefit the Philippines, and raise its efforts in adopting and deploying technologies in the next wave of digital innovation,” Pangilinan added.
PLDT has been investing in its fiber optic network expansion across the country to deliver ICT and fast connectivity to businesses and homes for both fixed and wireless.
Recently, PLDT has been implementing multiple modernization projects with several carrier partners to ready the network in the advent of 5G technology. Last year, it launched a 5G-capable network at the PLDT headquarters in Makati as well as in Clark, Pampanga.
It also announced recent agreements with institutions like the Ateneo De Manila University and Clark Development Corp. to develop and study possible use cases of 5G technology.
“5G is a new technology that is opening exciting new opportunities for digital services. This training program will help us deliver the new skills and capabilities needed to take full advantage of these opportunities,” said Mario Tamayo, PLDT senior vice president and head of network services.
