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Manila Bulletin devider Business devider The Stock Market devider Smart scales back 3G network to push 5G adoption

Smart scales back 3G network to push 5G adoption

Published Jul 14, 2025 04:42 pm
(Unsplash)
(Unsplash)
Smart Communications Inc., the wireless unit of telecommunications giant PLDT Inc., is scaling back its 3G network to reallocate capacity to its 5G network to deliver higher-quality connectivity.
Smart Chief Technology Officer Menardo “Butch” Jimenez Jr. said shifting resources away from 3G enables the company to focus on strengthening its 5G footprint.
Jimenez said the thriving 5G adoption among Filipinos enables them to fully participate in the digital economy, allowing them to unlock new opportunities on the global stage.
“Our continued investments in 5G align perfectly with the government’s push to boost the country’s digital competitiveness and drive inclusive nation-building,” he said.
Based on a regulatory filing, Smart’s combined 5G and 4G networks cover approximately 97 percent of the entire population.
Smart said users of its 5G network grew by 67 percent last year following upgrades to expand connectivity.
As of the end of 2024, Smart had registered 59 million mobile subscribers.
The company started phasing out its 3G network in 2020 to speed up the migration to 4G and 5G, which offer high-speed data services.
In its financial report dated Feb. 28, it said that the remaining number of 3G subscribers is “negligible and will not result in further re-assessment of the estimated useful life, or EUL, for the 3G technology assets.”
PLDT has earmarked up to ₱73 billion in capital expenditures (capex) this year, with the rollout of new sites and 5G base stations in key business areas and dense communities for Smart among the key projects.
Smart will soon undergo a two-year modernization program to enable 5G standalone capabilities such as automation, network slicing, and improved resiliency.
Its latest advancements include 5G Max, which is seen to deliver faster speeds, lower latency, and a more seamless mobile experience.
Following its launch in Metro Manila last year, the company will soon launch the service in Visayas.
Smart is encouraging customers still using 3G to make the jump to 5G-capable devices by offering easy installment options for prepaid device bundles or postpaid plans at its physical stores nationwide and online.
“Smart’s sustained efforts in modernizing its network underscore its deep commitment to delivering amazing services and innovations that genuinely enrich the lives of its subscribers,” it said.

Related Tags

Smart Communications Inc. PLDT Inc. 5G
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