PLDT wireless unit Smart Communications is reiterating its support for the extension of the SIM Registration deadline.
On Wednesday, April 19, the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) issued its statement rejecting the appeal of public telecommunication entities (PTEs) for the extension of SIM registration.
As of April 18, Smart leads the telco industry with over 36.5 million or 55.1% of its subscribers already registered, but the company reiterates its appeal for all mobile users.
“Extending the deadline will give our remaining 45% subscriber base ample time to register. At present, all 160 million subscribers in the country are given only 121 days to register. Comparatively, in other countries like Indonesia and India, PTEs were given 1 to 2 years of a registration window to better prepare for and promote SIM registration,” said Cathy Yang, PLDT and Smart FVP and Group Head for Corporate Communications.
“The extension will also help our subscribers secure valid IDs or proofs needed to register their SIM. We don’t want to alienate or leave behind the remaining 45% who have not yet registered,” she added.
Smart and its value brand TNT continue to provide physical assistance for SIM registration at several touchpoints all over the Philippines in collaboration with the DICT, NTC, DILG, and other partners.
Through this initiative, Smart and TNT aim to help those who may need assistance in registering their SIMs, especially senior citizens, persons with disabilities, and those using non-data phones.
New and existing Smart Prepaid and TNT subscribers may also visit PLDT and Smart stores, or access Smart’s SIM registration portal through https://simreg.smart.com.ph/; Postpaid users can simply text YES to 5858, while Enterprise customers can confirm their registration through their authorized representatives.