Integrated telco network PLDT Inc., working with the Private Sector Advisory Council (PSAC), a body that works with the government on priority programs, and other fixed line providers, is helping improve internet connectivity in state universities and colleges (SUC) as part of the government’s plan to strengthen digital learning across the country.
The initiative was presented during a PSAC meeting with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and is carried out with the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) and the Commission on Higher Education (CHED).
“Digital connectivity to all educational institutions has become a key factor toward national progress. The telco community is one in helping drive this objective forward with the government,” said Menardo “Butch” Jimenez, COO of PLDT and the company’s representative to the PSAC.
Under the Konektadong CHED program, PLDT aims to expand internet access to 220 SUCs by the first quarter of 2026, with the long-term goal of covering all 555 SUCs nationwide. The plan is expected to support between 5,000 and 10,000 learners and teachers per school. In 2022, the United Nations Development Programme, through PLDT, activated 1,000 free Wi-Fi access points in 220 public higher education institutions, including 61 of the 113 main SUCs.
PLDT said its support for PSAC’s digital programs is part of the Group’s efforts to help broaden digital access and strengthen the delivery of key services, including education. The company added that the work aligns with national development goals and contributes to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 9 on industry, innovation, and infrastructure.