Officials from Smart Communications, local government units, and partners gather during the activation of 11 new 4G/LTE cell sites in Maribojoc and Antequera, Bohol. Shown (from left) are Smart Regional Customer Development Visayas Center Head and AVP Ediner Tinio, Touchpoint Enterprises Inc. owner Richard Uy Lim, Maribojoc Municipal Vice Mayor Emilio Castilla, Smart Sales and Marketing Head and FVP Marjorie Garrovillo, Antequera Municipal Mayor Jose Mario Pahang, Bohol First District Representative John Geesnell Yap, Smart Wireless Network Head and FVP Debbie Hu, and Smart National Sales Head Alexis Winters.
PLDT’s wireless unit Smart Communications, Inc. has strengthened its network coverage in Bohol by activating 11 new 4G/LTE cell sites in the municipalities of Maribojoc and Antequera, reinforcing its efforts to improve digital connectivity and support the country’s digital transformation.
The newly activated sites are expected to provide stronger mobile connectivity for Smart and TNT subscribers, benefiting residents, businesses, students, and local government units. The expanded coverage is also seen to enhance access to online education, digital services, tourism, and disaster response in the two municipalities.
Maribojoc, known for its fisheries and ecotourism destinations, and Antequera, recognized for its basket-weaving industry, are expected to gain from improved mobile services that support local livelihoods and economic activities.
Bohol First District Representative John Geesnell “Baba” Yap welcomed the network expansion, noting that reliable connectivity has long been a challenge in parts of the district. He said the new sites will help residents stay connected while supporting education and the government’s digitalization initiatives.
The improved network is already creating economic opportunities for residents such as sari-sari store owner Monina Dela Cruz, who recently became a Smart Ka-partner retailer. She said the stronger signal has enabled her to earn additional income while providing mobile load services to her community. She also emphasized the importance of dependable connectivity during emergencies and natural disasters.
Barangay Councilor Katherine Bustaliño of Maribojoc likewise said the enhanced network will benefit residents by improving communication for work, education, and business.
According to Debbie Hu, Smart First Vice President and Group Head of Smart Wireless Network, the expansion reflects the company’s mission to connect more Filipinos and increase the visibility of local communities through better digital access.
The latest rollout forms part of Smart’s continued investments in network infrastructure under the PLDT Group, supporting the government’s digitalization goals while contributing to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 9 on Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure.
