Telecommunications leader PLDT Inc. is hoping it can finally close the chapter on its 2G network by the end of this year or next, as it cracks down on scams proliferating through the legacy asset.

Menardo Jimenez Jr., chief operating officer (COO) and chief technology officer of PLDT, said the phaseout of 2G services is now well underway across its mobile network.

Smart Communications Inc., the wireless unit of PLDT, has gradually ceased using frequencies allocated to its 2G network in favor of 4G and 5G technologies, which are now supported by most mobile phones.

“We’re gonna continue doing it. Hopefully, if not by the end of this year, next year,” Jimenez said in a chance interview, when asked about phasing out the 2G network.

While the intent of the shift is to deliver the best connectivity to their customers, Jimenez said the phaseout also aims to help the government address the rising cases of scams and other fraudulent acts in the country.

He said 2G is particularly prone to fake base stations, or international mobile subscriber identity (IMSI) catchers, where fraudsters send scam messages to mobile phones.

These scams often entice users with messages claiming they won a big cash prize, requiring them to send bank information to process the supposed payout.

“In less than 30 seconds, they will go straight to your bank account and rip out all your money,” said Jimenez.

Despite such threats, the government is still not keen on retiring the 2G network just yet, since some rural and isolated areas in the country have not been reached by 4G or 5G networks.

The National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) said frequencies assigned to 2G and 3G networks can be more efficiently utilized by 4G, 5G, or even 6G technologies to reduce congestion and improve connectivity.

“4G, 5G, and upcoming 6G offer higher data throughput, lower latency, and improved spectral efficiency compared to 2G and 3G technology, enabling robust broadband services,” it noted.

Under Memorandum Circular No. 003-09 last year, NTC directed telcos offering 3G services to implement area-specific phased shutdowns, which will be completed by Dec. 31, 2026.

The decommissioning of the 2G network, meanwhile, was to be implemented under a “different schedule” to ensure the availability of basic communication service in areas still relying on it.

The circular did not specify any deadline for the network’s deactivation.

The 2G network continues to be a critical vehicle for communication, especially for emergency alerts during extreme weather conditions.

Jimenez said it is also still used by automated teller machines (ATMs) as banks are not yet willing to migrate to the latest generations due to cost concerns.

Recognizing the persistent threats of scams on the 2G network, Jimenez said PLDT is working with global telco giant Huawei on a “triangulation” tool to help the government pinpoint those spreading these deceitful schemes.

“We cannot pinpoint exactly the area within one meter, but we can triangulate it within about 50 meters or 100 meters,” said Jimenez. “At least it’s easier to catch the person versus you don’t know where they are.”