PLDT Inc. and its wireless unit Smart Communications Inc. have continued working with government agencies and private groups for more than two decades to use technology in improving public services, expanding digital access, and supporting communities across the Philippines.
These efforts fall under the PLDT and Smart Communities program, which focuses on using connectivity and digital tools to support education, livelihoods, disaster response, and inclusion. The companies said these partnerships are part of their core business approach, linking commercial operations with social impact.
“When we put people and communities at the heart of what we do, social progress follows, and that is what ultimately strengthens our business,” said Roby Alampay, FVP and head of Public Engagement at PLDT and Smart. “This is how PLDT and Smart create shared value: by using technology to build trust, resilience, and opportunity for Filipinos.”
In education, PLDT and Smart have worked with the Department of Education (DepEd) to support teachers and students nationwide. Programs such as the CVIF-Dynamic Learning Program, School-in-a-Bag, and 14 localized #LearnSmart applications aligned with the national curriculum have reached more than one million learners and educators, including those in remote and underserved areas.
For micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), the companies partnered with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) on the eBiznovation program. The initiative has provided digital skills training to more than 35,000 MSMEs and cooperatives, helping small businesses improve operations and reach wider markets.
In agriculture, PLDT and Smart have worked with the Department of Agriculture – Agricultural Training Institute (DA-ATI) since 2019 through the Digital Farmers Program. More than 20,000 farmers, youth, and other agriculture stakeholders have received training on digital skills, connectivity, and access to basic agri-technology tools.
To improve digital access and skills, the Group has partnered with the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) to support Tech4Ed Digital Transformation Centers. These centers have served over 300,000 Filipinos through programs on education, livelihood, internet safety, and disaster preparedness. PLDT and Smart are also the exclusive telecommunications partner of the Global Digital Transformation Centers Initiative of the International Telecommunication Union and Cisco.
In disaster preparedness and response, PLDT and Smart have worked with the Office of Civil Defense (OCD), local disaster risk reduction offices, and community partners. More than 44,000 individuals have been trained on disaster preparedness, and 61 Ligtas Kits have been deployed nationwide. During emergencies, services such as Libreng Tawag, Libreng Charging, and Libreng WiFi are provided to help affected communities stay connected.
On online safety and inclusion, the #BeCyberSmart campaign, done with the Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking (IACAT), has reached over 125,000 individuals. The campaign promotes child online protection and responsible digital use. Separate partnerships with the National Council on Disability Affairs (NCDA) and the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) aim to support inclusive participation and respect for cultural integrity.
PLDT and Smart said they plan to continue strengthening these partnerships, with a focus on expanding digital access and ensuring more Filipinos can benefit from technology.