Leading integrated telco network, PLDT Inc (PLDT) is collaborating with the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) to protect telco equipment during road digging and excavation activities.
“PLDT is collaborating more closely with the MMDA and its acting chair Atty Don Artes to ensure that fiber optic cables are not accidentally damaged during road works,” said Atty Joan A. De Venecia-Fabul, PLDT First Vice President, Deputy Chief Legal Counsel, and Head of Regulatory and Strategic Affairs.
Accidental fiber cuts due to building activity are one of the causes of service disruptions that affect subscribers.
“We look forward to working hand-in-hand with MMDA and the government in crafting protocols for prior coordination and alignment before excavation permits are issued and diggings are done to ensure that service interruptions due to accidental damage to telco cables are avoided,” she added.
This collaboration is consistent with PLDT’s long-standing work with government and industry stakeholders to protect telco infrastructure and equipment, ensuring service delivery and improving customer experience.
PLDT and its wireless business, Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart), have also been working closely with the Anti-Red Tape Authority, local government units, and other government agencies to streamline the permitting process and expedite the installation of telecom infrastructure throughout the country.
These initiatives are consistent with PLDT and Smart’s efforts to assist the government in closing the digital divide, bringing the benefits of the internet and digital services to more Filipinos nationwide, and contributing to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 9 – Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure.
