When it comes to streaming videos on smartphones, subscribers of Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) and its value brand TNT enjoy a clear advantage after the company recently bagged the Best Mobile Video Experience award from Ookla, a global leader in network intelligence and connectivity insights.
A measure of customers’ real-world Quality of Experience (QoE) while streaming video over mobile networks, Ookla’s Video Experience award is derived from three equally weighted components: acceptable video start time, uninterrupted playback, and full HD resolution.
Based on Ookla’s analysis of Speedtest Intelligence® data for Q3-Q4 2025, Smart posted a Video Score of 78.60, ranking highest among mobile operators nationwide.
According to the firm’s methodology, the Video Score reflects the percentage of users who experience video start times of less than two seconds, uninterrupted playback without rebuffering events, and 1080p or higher resolution in the majority of playbacks.
In practical terms, this means millions of Smart and TNT customers enjoy smoother streaming of their favorite shows and videos on platforms such as YouTube, TikTok, Facebook, and Netflix without the frustration of long loading times or constant buffering.
Customers also benefit from faster video start times, clearer high-definition playback, and a more seamless viewing experience overall — whether they are catching up on a trending series during a commute, watching livestreams, sharing viral short-form videos, or tuning in to live sports and concerts on their smartphones.
Among the world’s top video consumers today
“We are proud to recognize Smart for winning Best Video Experience in the Philippines,” said Stephen Bye, President and CEO of Ookla, a division of Ziff Davis. “This accolade is a testament to their industry-leading performance, as proven by Ookla’s methodology. Congratulations, Smart!”
“This latest recognition affirms our continued efforts in strengthening our network to support the growing digital needs of Filipinos, who are among the top video consumers in the world today,” said Debbie M. Hu, First Vice President and Head of Wireless Networks at Smart.
According to the Digital 2026 Report released by Meltwater and We Are Social, Filipinos spend 20.48 hours weekly watching online videos, the second highest in the world, behind Kenya.
“As video increasingly becomes the primary way people learn, work, and entertain themselves online, we remain focused on delivering a consistently superior streaming experience for our customers,” added Hu.
Back-to-back network recognitions
Smart’s latest recognition builds on its earlier citation from Ookla for providing the Best Mobile Latency in the Philippines, reinforcing the strength and responsiveness of its network.
Low latency, which refers to the reduced delay between sending and receiving data, is a critical factor in delivering smooth digital experiences, especially for real-time applications such as video streaming, online gaming, and video calls.
“Winning both the Best Mobile Video Experience and Best Mobile Latency awards reflects our goal of continuously elevating the digital experience of our customers. These recognitions highlight the strength of our network and reinforce our drive to deliver more responsive and reliable connectivity for Filipinos,” said Lloyd R. Manaloto, First Vice President and co-OIC at Smart.
“As demand for high-quality video continues to grow, Smart will keep investing in network innovation to ensure Filipinos across the country continue to enjoy world-class mobile experiences wherever they are,” said Marjorie C. Garrovillo, First Vice President and co-OIC at Smart.
Smart’s back-to-back recognitions from Ookla reflect the PLDT Group’s broader commitment to building a more connected digital nation, which advances the Group’s contribution to the national digital agenda and supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal No. 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure.
