PLDT Inc. (PLDT) and Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) have received the ‘Bayani sa Last Mile’ award from the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) in recognition of their contributions to expanding digital connectivity and accelerating digital transformation across the Philippines.
Presented during the Digital Bayanihan Awards held in Quezon City as part of National ICT Month 2026 and the DICT’s 10th anniversary celebration, the award recognizes organizations that have supported the agency’s key digital initiatives over the past decade.
PLDT and Smart were cited for helping bridge the country’s digital divide through continued network expansion, connectivity projects, and digital enablement programs, particularly in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas (GIDAs).
Among the latest initiatives is the activation of a new mobile site in San Vicente, Palawan, improving internet access in last-mile communities while supporting the government’s Bayanihan SIM program. Through the initiative, around 1,500 government-identified beneficiaries, including students, received Smart SIM cards with 25GB of mobile data per month for 12 months, fully subsidized by the government.
The companies also recently expanded their network in Bohol by activating 11 new sites, strengthening connectivity in key economic and tourism areas. The rollout supports local industries such as Antequera’s basket-weaving sector, Maribojoc’s fisheries, and community-based ecotourism.
According to PLDT, the recognition underscores its long-term commitment to investing in digital infrastructure that enables education, livelihood, innovation, and inclusive access to digital services, ensuring more Filipinos in underserved communities can participate in the country’s growing digital economy.
