Smart Communications Inc., the wireless unit of telecommunications giant PLDT Inc., said over 40 million active data users were in its network in the first quarter of the year, primarily driven by the growing adoption of 5G.

In a statement, Smart said its active mobile data base is well “ahead of the nearest competitor.”

During the first three months, 5G data traffic surged by over 80 percent year-on-year, while adoption of 5G device is increasing by about 60 percent quarter-on-quarter.

“The shift to 5G is improving how our network runs—making it more efficient, supporting LTE and especially 5G users, and strengthening everyday mobile experiences,” said Smart Chief Operating Officer Anastacio Martirez.

“This momentum puts us in a better position to steady our revenues and to keep growing the individual segment,” he added.

Smart said the rising preference in 5G is buoyed by “more affordable 5G phones, compelling data offers, and continued upgrades” to its nationwide network.

Based on its financial report, PLDT's individual wireless segment reported revenues of ₱21.3 billion in the first quarter of 2025.

Mobile data revenues, meanwhile, held steady year on year at ₱18.8 billion, now constituting 88 percent of the segment’s total revenues.

“We’re focused on growing data traffic year after year and staying ahead of the competition,” Martirez said.

"The company does not see the same softening trend as the rest of the industry, with data traffic continuing to grow, supported by strong 5G networks,” he added.

Smart is set to ramp up its new 5G products this year, particularly through the 5G Standalone (5G SA), which provides dedicated lanes in the network for specific needs to further boost connectivity.

On the part of PLDT, the telco is deepening investment into its integrated network, including its robust 5G infrastructure.

At the present, Smart's mobile network already covers 97 percent of the population.