PLDT begins free fiber upgrade program for ADSL users

In a statement on Monday, PLDT said its modernization program has already begun and will be completed in the next 18 months. (File Photo: PLDT/Facebook)

MANILA – Copper-based ADSL users of PLDT will soon experience improved internet speeds after the telecommunications company announced its free fiber upgrade program.

In a statement on Monday, PLDT said its modernization program has already begun and will be completed in the next 18 months.

Alfredo Panlilio, PLDT chief revenue officer, said the modernization program will boost the internet service of both PLDT Home and Enterprise customers “at no added cost”.

“With this modernization program, PLDT sets out to reinforce the drive to install new fiber connections and meet the ever-increasing demand for high-speed internet access for more homes and businesses. It is an essential need, especially in these times of the Covid-19 pandemic,” Panlilio said.

Menardo Jimenez Jr., PLDT home senior vice president, noted that users of PLDT Home Fibr can send or upload data as fast as they receive or download it, setting it apart from the relatively slow upload speeds of ADSL or DSL lines.

“PLDT Home Fibr enables subscribers to explore a wider variety of online activities at home on multiple devices for seamless HD quality streaming, lag-free gaming, among many other services,” Jimenez said.

During the first half of 2020, PLDT said the total number of fiber-powered ports it has installed all over the country has increased by 5 percent to 3.67 million — 1.6 million of which were installed for new customers.

To date, it said the PLDT fiber-optic network spans a total of 360,000 kilometers, claiming the network is “the country’s most extensive digital data infrastructure”.

Manuel Pangilinan, PLDT chairman, said the company will continue to advance its telecommunications infrastructure in the country to support the country’s needs during the pandemic.

“Moving forward, we will grow our business by helping our customers – and the country – rebuild their lives and livelihoods with powerful connectivity like fiber, 4G and now 5G, combined with innovative digital solutions,” Pangilinan said.