PLDT tests faster fiber network connection 

In a bid to develop better connectivity speeds through its entire network, PLDT Inc. successfully tested the latest and fastest Passive Optical Network (PON) technology that can provide 50 gigabits per second (Gbps) speeds for its equipment ports. 

According to Arvin Siena, vice president and head of Network Strategy and Transformation Office at PLDT and Smart, upgrading the PON technology to 50G will deliver much faster speeds than the current 2.5 Gbps GPON and 10 Gbps XGS PON that are commonly used by fiber technology providers in the country. 

PON technology is currently used by the firm for its fiber-to-the-home (FTTH) service network in the country. 

"While we have been offering boosted speeds to our customers even before the pandemic, this new technology further ensures that we can provide the best and fastest service to homes nationwide," said PLDT and Smart Head of Network Eric Santiago. 

The PLDT Group has a total fiber footprint of more than 1.1 million cable kilometers as of September 2023. The fiber network has reached around 69 percent or 17.3 million homes in the country. 

Fiber ports also increased to 6.15 million, covering 18,000 barangays nationwide.