Latest news with #PLDTInc.
GMA Network
22-07-2025
- Climate
- GMA Network
PLDT, Smart provide free calls, texts, data for storm-hit customers
Two people walk on a flooded road in Candaba, Pampanga on July 22, 2025. 24 Oras video PLDT Inc. and its wireless unit Smart Communications on Tuesday announced they are providing free calls, texts, and 250MB of data to affected customers in areas severely impacted by the Crising-enhanced Habagat rains. In a news release, PLDT-Smart said free calls, text, and data are now accessible to subscribers in Angono, Bataan, Bulacan, Cainta, Las Piñas, Marikina, Mindoro, Pampanga, Pangasinan, Pasig, Tarlac, Taytay, and Zambales. The telco said it will continue to monitor conditions and coordinate with local authorities to extend assistance where needed. 'Staying connected is a lifeline in times like these,' said Manuel Pangilinan, chairman and CEO of PLDT-Smart. Anastacio Martirez, COO of Smart, added, 'We've activated free calls, texts, and data in affected areas so our customers can reach out for help, or to their loved ones. Keeping our network up and our services available is our top priority.' Pangilinan, who is also president and CEO of Meralco, also directed the power distributor to position and deploy high bed and amphibious trucks, motorized boats, and trained rescue teams in flooded areas. PLDT-Smart said its Smart Cares Crisis Hotline (+63288457799) remains open to help customers connect with family members and receive safety advisories. Customers are encouraged to follow official government bulletins and take necessary precautions, the telco said. — BM, GMA Integrated News
GMA Network
01-07-2025
- Business
- GMA Network
Telco industry's future hinges on harnessing AI, 5G - PLDT's Jimenez
PLDT Inc. is banking on the convergence of the latest digital and connectivity innovations—5G and artificial intelligence (AI)—to set the pace for the future of the telecommunications industry. In his keynote speech at the 2025 Mobile World Congress in Shanghai, China, last month, PLDT Chief Operating Officer and Chief Technology Officer Menardo 'Butch' Jimenez Jr. said, 'It is the power of both 5G and AI that will deliver the magic.' 'Not just one or the other. Telcos have the unique DNA to deliver both, and that's why we believe the future of the industry depends on how we harness these two forces together,' Jimenez said. The PLDT official laid out the telco's game plan for leading the 5G-AI revolution: build smarter infrastructure, collaborate boldly, and train relentlessly. With 5G standalone architecture as its backbone, PLDT is setting the stage for AI-powered innovation, he said. 'The solo mindset is outdated,' Jimenez said, as he underscored the importance of strategic partnerships. He said PLDT is investing in AI bootcamps and upskilling programs to ensure its workforce is ready to lead in the age of intelligent connectivity. 'If our people don't embrace AI, there's no way we can lead with it,' he emphasized. 'We must believe in it ourselves before we can deliver it to our customers,' Jimenez said. 'This is our dream, our vision, and our hope—that 5G and AI together will drive the next generation of growth for telco,' he said. — VBL, GMA Integrated News
Bloomberg
27-02-2025
- Business
- Bloomberg
PLDT Eyes KKR Stake to Take Control of Philippines Fintech Unit
PLDT Inc. is interested in acquiring KKR & Co. 's stake in its fintech affiliate in a move that could allow the top Philippine telecom company retake control of the now-profitable business. 'It looks like Maya is starting to turn the corner. We'd be keen to increase our stake,' PLDT Chairman and CEO Manuel Pangilinan told reporters on Thursday.
