PLDT Inc. mobile unit Smart Communications Inc. is ramping up its fifth generation (5G) rollout this year to address the increasing demand for mobile data with the rise of 5G device adoption.
PLDT cited 5G adoption as one of the emerging growth streams of its Individual Business, which posted revenues of P41.9 billion in the first half of the year. Mobile data revenues now account for 89 percent of total Individual Wireless revenues, the company said.
“To accelerate our growth momentum, we must leverage on our site rollouts and capacity enhancements, continue to offer the best value-for-money packages, and deliver excellent customer service to delight our subscribers,” said Alex Caeg, head of Consumer Wireless Business at Smart.
The company has also noted that the increase in the number of unique 5G devices driving data traffic continues into 2024 and expects this to be sustained as the price of 5G devices trends lower.
To further sustain the growth of 5G adoption, Smart is making available device financing for 5G phones through various bank partners, said Caeg.
Smart noted that 5G growth entails a combination.
“Firstly, it is about having a strong 5G network in key areas to support the mobile data needs of subscribers there. Second is the availability of 5G devices, which are necessary in order to latch on to the 5G network. Today, we can already see a mix of high-end and affordable devices in the market, and we want to be able to leverage that. Finally, we see the potential of premium subscriber benefits for those using the 5G network,” said Kristine Go, senior vice president for Smart Consumer Wireless Business.
Smart’s mobile network was recently recognized for delivering the Philippines’ Best 5G Coverage Experience, according to the latest report by independent analytics firm Opensignal.
It covers 97 percent of the population and is part of the Philippines’ largest integrated network that includes PLDT’s extensive fiber infrastructure.
