City Government of Cebu rolls out free hi-speed Wi-Fi to barangays, in partnership with PLDT Enterprise

A first-class city in the Visayas, Cebu City envisions to develop into a smart city, much like the city-state of Singapore.

A STEP CLOSER TO BECOMING A SMART CITY. PLDT Enterprise and the Cebu City Government formalize their partnership to provide free Wi-Fi access to city constituents. From left to right are Ramon Magadan Jr., Customer Development Manager, Smart Communications Inc.; Kent De La Calzada, AVP and Head of Customer Relationship Management-Visayas, PLDT Enterprise; Hon. Michael L. Rama, City Mayor, City Government of Cebu; and Clyde Maru, Relationship Manager, PLDT Enterprise.

To this end, the local government unit (LGU) of Cebu City has forged a partnership with PLDT Enterprise, the corporate business arm of PLDT, the leading integrated telecommunications and digital services provider in the Philippines, to expedite its thrust towards digital transformation for the benefit of its constituents and thriving business communities.

The collaboration will provide advanced digital solutions and reliable connectivity with the initial roll out of free, unlimited public Wi-Fi in 50 barangays, including prominent areas like Guadalupe, Tisa, Basak San Nicholas, and Talamban.

Wi-Fi access points will be strategically deployed in barangay halls, gyms, and key areas of each barangay to ensure wide coverage and connection of about 30 to 40 meters from every access point.

PLDT Enterprise supplies fiber broadband internet access with a robust bandwidth of 100mbps to enable seamless connectivity. Moreover, a cloud-managed access point is installed to monitor real-time alerts and ensure uninterrupted internet.

Kent De La Calzada, Assistant Vice President & Head of Customer Relationship Management at PLDT Enterprise, underscores the importance of connectivity in driving progress and innovation, saying, "Digital access has become the lifeblood of modern cities. A digital city – facilitated by widespread broadband – is one precursor into becoming a smart city. This certainly benefits all stakeholders."

In enabling easy access to information and essential services through wireless internet, the LGU enhances the delivery of public services, facilitates learning and information technology, and promotes competitiveness among barangays.

To help the LGU connect with their constituents better, PLDT Enterprise played a pivotal role in powering the People's State of the City Address, as the official connectivity sponsor of the event, bringing together the community virtually to engage and connect with the local government.

Just as importantly, it will play a pivotal role in supporting the city's tourism objectives by providing internet access to visitors. Last year, Cebu City ranked first in tourist arrivals (with 1,063,503 tourists) among all LGUs in Cebu.

The Honorable Michael L. Rama, Mayor of the City Government of Cebu, expressed gratitude for the partnership and its potential impact on the city’s digitalization programs.

“Not only enhancing connectivity, but this initiative also empowers our citizens by providing access to vital information and social services. With PLDT Enterprise’s expertise and support, we are one step closer to realizing our vision of a smart Cebu City,” PLDT Enterprise quoted Rama as saying.

This latest partnership is another testament to PLDT Enterprise's commitment to digitalize different localities, particularly those in far-flung areas, in support of nation-building and economic growth.

Indeed, the City Government of Cebu has set plans for expanding connectivity to the remaining 30 barangays located in mountainous areas to further extend and ensure reliable connection across the entire city.

Mitch Locsin, First Vice President & Head of Enterprise and International Business Groups at PLDT and Smart, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, as well as the growing trend of digitalization across the country.

“PLDT Enterprise is delighted to be involved in Cebu City’s digital transformation journey. Much like we have done in other LGUs, our advanced fiber broadband solutions will provide the city and its residents with the tools and resources needed to thrive in the digital era,” Locsin closes.

PLDT Enterprise continues to work hand in hand with LGUs like the City Government of Cebu to foster innovation, improve government services, and create smarter and more connected communities. This partnership has taken significant strides in supporting the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals by promoting digital inclusion and empowering citizens with greater and equal digital opportunities through connectivity. Together, PLDT Enterprise and the City Government of Cebu are driving positive change, bridging the digital divide, and building a more inclusive and sustainable future for all.