PLDT’s wireless arm Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) is backing the government’s Bayanihan SIM initiative, which aims to bring mobile data connectivity to geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas (GIDAs) across the country.
Under this program, which is led by the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), Smart is providing free TNT SIM cards with pre-loaded mobile data to recipients identified by the Department of Education (DepEd), which includes students and teachers in elementary and high schools under the department. Under the partnership, beneficiaries will receive 25GB of data per month for 12 months, fully subsidized by the government.
The first wave of distribution was successfully held in Masinloc, Zambales province at Bani National High School – Coto Annex, Coto Elementary School, and Mandaloy Elementary School. Smart personnel were deployed on-site to assist with SIM registration, facilitate the downloading of the Smart App, and provide guidance on account reloading and data usage monitoring.
“We are proud to support the Bayanihan SIM initiative, which reinforces our commitment to leave no Filipino offline. By expanding access to mobile connectivity and data, especially in underserved communities, we help students continue their education, families stay in touch, and citizens access critical digital services. This program is a step towards a more inclusive digital future where every Filipino, regardless of location, can participate in learning, livelihood, and nation-building,” said Anastacio Boy R. Martirez, Smart Chief Operating Officer.
The Bayanihan SIM program is a key initiative supporting the government’s push for nationwide digital connectivity. It is enabled by Smart’s mobile network and is supported by PLDT’s fiber infrastructure, the country’s most extensive.
“For PLDT, nation-building is a shared responsibility. Through programs like Bayanihan SIM, we are strengthening our long-standing partnership with government to empower more communities and help bridge the digital divide,” said Butch Jimenez, PLDT Chief Operating Officer. “As a member of the Private Sector Advisory Council (PSAC), PLDT continues to support the national agenda by delivering inclusive connectivity and digital access where it matters most—whether in classrooms, homes, or hard-to-reach barangays.”
The PLDT Group’s continued investment in enhancing its integrated fixed and wireless network, including its robust 5G infrastructure, is aligned with the Group’s commitment to deliver leveled-up customer experience across the country.
Smart’s innovative mobile products and services also contribute to the PLDT Group’s endeavors to narrow the digital divide, provide connectivity to all, and achieve the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDGs) particularly SDG 9 – Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure. These also reinforce the Group’s support for the Government’s overall digitalization thrust.
