In a major push to bridge the digital divide, Smart Communications, Inc.—the wireless subsidiary of PLDT—is actively supporting the Bayanihan SIM initiative, a national program aimed at expanding digital access in the country’s most remote and underserved areas.
Spearheaded by the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), the Bayanihan SIM initiative seeks to provide free mobile connectivity to geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas (GIDAs). Through this program, Smart is distributing TNT SIM cards with 25GB of monthly data, valid for 12 months, to beneficiaries identified by the Department of Education (DepEd)—including students and teachers in elementary and high schools.
The pilot rollout recently took place in Masinloc, Zambales, reaching schools like Bani National High School – Coto Annex, Coto Elementary School, and Mandaloy Elementary School. Smart field teams assisted with SIM registration, the downloading of the Smart App, and educating users on how to monitor and manage their mobile data.
“We are proud to support the Bayanihan SIM initiative, which reinforces our commitment to leave no Filipino offline,” said Anastacio Boy R. Martirez, Chief Operating Officer of Smart. “This program is a step towards a more inclusive digital future where every Filipino, regardless of location, can participate in learning, livelihood, and nation-building.”
Powered by Smart’s mobile network and PLDT’s extensive fiber infrastructure, this program marks a significant collaboration between the private sector and government in addressing digital inequality. For PLDT, the effort is part of a broader mission.
“Nation-building is a shared responsibility,” said Butch Jimenez, PLDT’s Chief Operating Officer. “Programs like Bayanihan SIM strengthen our partnership with the government and help empower communities through inclusive connectivity.”
The Bayanihan SIM initiative also aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, especially SDG 9 – Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure. Through its sustained investments in 5G, fiber, and mobile innovations, the PLDT Group aims to provide top-tier connectivity to all Filipinos, regardless of geography.
This initiative is a powerful step toward a digitally inclusive Philippines, where education, communication, and digital services reach even the most far-flung barangays.
