For over 15 years, PLDT Enterprise, the corporate business arm of PLDT Inc., and PeopleLink Inc. part of the Magsaysay Group, have been providing Filipino seafarers with reliable connectivity within the maritime industry.
PeopleLink Inc., established in 2008, engaged with PLDT Enterprise shortly after its inception to enhance communication solutions for the shipping and manning sectors.
“PLDT Enterprise has been a trusted partner of PeopleLink since 2009, supporting our mission to provide essential solutions to the maritime industry,” said Patrick Ho Maxwell, president of PeopleLink Inc.
In 2023, 578,626 Filipino seafarers were deployed, a notable increase from the previous year’s 385,239, according to the Department of Migrant Workers. The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas reported that sea-based workers, including seafarers and hospitality staff on cruise ships, contributed around 21% of the $33.49 billion in cash remittances from overseas Filipino workers, equivalent to approximately $6.9 billion.
E-load options
The partnership introduced Smart SIM packets with affordable monthly e-load options bundled with a mobile phone, facilitating communication between maritime workers and their families. These SIM packets also ensure users receive important announcements and emergency messages from Magsaysay.
“This partnership underscores PLDT Enterprise’s commitment to meeting the unique digital needs of seafarers and their families,” said Jay Lagdameo, VP and head of Enterprise Revenue Group at PLDT Enterprise.
Lagdameo also highlighted Bizload, a service that distributes mobile loads to Magsaysay seafarers and employees, as an example of their tailored solutions.
As PLDT Enterprise continues to innovate, businesses are encouraged to explore how these services can enhance connectivity and operational efficiency within the maritime industry.