PLDT Inc. remains confident in its market leadership amid reports that satellite connectivity providers may enter the Philippine telecommunications market this year, saying competition only strengthens its resolve to deliver better services to Filipinos.
Speaking during the company’s recent earnings press conference, PLDT Chief Operating Officer and Network Head Menardo “Butch” G. Jimenez said the company is closely monitoring developments surrounding potential new players in the satellite connectivity space.
“We don’t know exactly who is coming in or what specific services they intend to offer, but as with any potential entrant, we take competition seriously,” Jimenez said.
He emphasized that PLDT’s long-standing strategy has always been to compete aggressively while continuously improving its own capabilities and customer experience.
“Our job is to compete and to win,” he said. “Historically, it is easier to compete with new entrants than with players that already have established scale. Our strategy is to be proactive from day one.”
Satellite technology still evolving
Jimenez noted that early information suggests these firms may focus on direct-to-cell satellite technology, but he tempered concerns by pointing out the current limitations of the platform.
“At this particular point in time, we’re not as scared of direct-to-cell technology,” he said. “Basic services such as SMS can take as long as four minutes to send and another four minutes to receive — if you’re lucky.”
He added that high-bandwidth applications such as video streaming remain impractical through existing direct-to-cell satellite services.
“Data-heavy applications like video streaming are not practical today through direct-to-cell technology. That said, these technologies will likely improve over time,” Jimenez explained.
Complementary, not replacement
While acknowledging the potential of satellite services, PLDT stressed that the technology currently serves more as a complementary solution rather than a replacement for traditional mobile and fiber networks.
“Satellite services can be useful, especially as redundancy in hard-to-reach areas,” Jimenez said. “But for everyday connectivity, customers expect fast, reliable, and seamless service.”
He also highlighted the extensive reach of PLDT and Smart Communications, noting that the group’s mobile network already covers approximately 97% of the Philippine population.
“Our mobile coverage today reaches about 97 percent of the population,” he said, underscoring that satellite connectivity addresses only a specific segment of connectivity needs rather than the daily requirements of most consumers.
‘We also have to get better’
Despite its confidence, PLDT acknowledged that satellite technology will continue to evolve and said the company is prepared to adapt alongside industry developments.
“These services will get better, and when they do, we also have to get better,” Jimenez said. “Our focus remains on delivering the best possible service for the Philippines.”
He ended on a combative but optimistic note, welcoming healthy competition in the telecommunications industry.
“If they want to work with us Philippine telcos, then good. But if they want to directly compete with us, then let’s slug it out,” Jimenez said. “We are not going to back out from that fight.”