PLDT Inc. and Smart Communications, Inc. have been recognized in the 2025 Voluntary National Review (VNR) of the Philippines for advancing sustainable and inclusive digital development through their IDEATe Program.
Presented by the Department of Economy Planning and Development (DEPDev) at the United Nations High-Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development 2025 in New York, the report highlighted the role of PLDT and Smart in promoting access to skills, digital tools, and opportunities for all sectors—especially persons with disabilities, Indigenous Peoples, and senior citizens.
“As we continue to invest in a strong network and make digital services accessible to all, we are helping build systems that support inclusive, sustainable development,” said Menardo “Butch” G. Jimenez, Jr., PLDT Chief Operating Officer.
PLDT’s fiber footprint has reached 1.2 million cable kilometers, connecting 19 million homes nationwide, while Smart’s 5G/4G coverage now reaches 97% of the population, helping expand access to education, healthcare, and livelihood opportunities.
As the only telcos among the founding members of DEPDev’s Stakeholders’ Chamber on the SDGs, PLDT and Smart actively collaborate with government and civil society to accelerate national progress toward the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
“By aligning our business with the SDGs and engaging in meaningful collaborations, we help ensure no Filipino is left behind,” said Melissa V. Vergel de Dios, Chief Sustainability Officer of PLDT and Smart.
The full 2025 Voluntary National Review of the Philippines can be accessed at https://sdg.depdev.gov.ph/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/07082025-VNR-2025-compressed.pdf