PLDT Inc.’s wireless subsidiary Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) has signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with the Department of Transportation (DOTr) in support of the EDSA Greenways Project, an initiative under the Build Better More infrastructure program led by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
The MOA covers the relocation of Smart’s utilities and cables affected by the construction of elevated walkways on the Metro’s main thoroughfare, including footbridges in Balintawak, Cubao, Guadalupe and Taft. These pedestrian structures seek to address the needs of the elderly, persons with disabilities (PWDs), women, and people travelling with children by connecting MRT and LRT stations to it.
Aimed at resolving inadequacies in the country’s infrastructure which hinder national development, growth from initiatives under the nationwide Build Better More program is expected to make the economy more resilient, make trade more efficient, help fund more infrastructure projects, and uplift the standard of living in the country.
“We welcome this opportunity to work hand-in-hand with Government to help boost the country’s economy and improve the quality of life of our countrymen, while ensuring that we are able to continue serving our subscribers and keep them connected,” said PLDT and Smart President and CEO Alfredo S. Panlilio, a founding member under the Digital Infrastructure pillar of the Presidential Private Sector Advisory Council (PSAC).
Present during the MOA signing held at the DOTr headquarters in San Juan were DOTr officials led by Transport Secretary Jaime J. Bautista, Smart executives led by FVP and Network Head Eric S. Santiago, and representatives from other telcos.
“Our goal is to have a smooth relocation of utilities and cables in areas where the project will be constructed. I cannot overemphasize the value of the EDSA Greenways Project in providing sustainable mobility options,” said Bautista, adding that the DOTr appreciates the collaboration of the Department of Labor and Employment, Philippine National Police, PLDT and Smart and other telcos in the success of the transport project.
“With our customers as our North Star, we are always looking for ways to serve them better by enhancing our network, enabling the seamless delivery of our products, services and innovative solutions,” Santiago said.
This collaboration between Smart and DOTr forms part of the Group’s commitment to the Government’s overall digitalization thrust to narrow the digital divide.
These also boost PLDT’s aspirational multi-year transformation, with elevating customer experience and delivering industry-leading operational excellence as among the key priorities.