PLDT partners with Cisco for 5G-ready IP network

Pangilinan-led PLDT Inc. has inked a multi-million dollar contract with global technology firm Cisco to upgrade the local telco's IP transport infrastructure into a fully 5G ready network.

Under a three-year partnership, PLDT and Cisco will deploy technology to design and build automated, highly reliable, highly scalable, software-defined next-generation infrastructure utilizing PLDT's existing fiber network to deliver customized digital experiences to customers.

According to PLDT, the software-defined architecture will fortify customer services with networking capabilities and cybersecurity to safeguard customer data.

"This investment will raise PLDT's fiber network to the next level," said Pangilinan. The company's fiber network currently has 244,000 kilometers.

"We are building with Cisco one of the most modern transport networks in Asia by maximizing the capabilities of the fiber infrastructure that we have already put in place," said Joachim Horn, chief technology and information advisor at PLDT.

With the boost in its infrastructure, PLDT will be able to manage traffic congestion, minimize network outages, and the launch of new digital services.

"At Cisco, we are committed to working with our customers to transform their infrastructure, so they can unlock growth opportunities as everything becomes connected," said Cisco CEO and Chairman Chuck Robbins. —KBK, GMA News