PLDT Secures $34.4M Social Loan to Expand Fiber in Remote Philippines

PLDT has raised US$34.4 million (PHP 2 billion) through a social loan from HSBC Philippines to expand its fiber infrastructure into the country's remote, low-income, and underserved municipalities. The project targets "fourth to sixth class" municipalities, including Geographically Isolated and Disadvantaged Areas (GIDAs).

Under the loan terms, PLDT will prioritize deployment in communities with the greatest connectivity gaps. According to government classifications, there are 729 municipalities in those lower income classes; as of mid-2024, only about 59% of those municipalities were served by PLDT's fiber network.

PLDT emphasized that expanding fiber access in these areas complements its wireless coverage efforts and is essential for improving digital inclusion, enabling better access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities in remote regions. As of June 2024, PLDT had already connected 767 GIDAs to its fiber network.

HSBC Philippines noted this is the first social loan granted to a telecommunications company in the country, underlining its focus on projects with measurable social impact. Additionally, PLDT has secured other financing lines this year to accelerate its fiber build-out—such as a green loan to upgrade copper networks and another green loan earmarked for fiber expansion.

Melissa Vergel de Dios, PLDT Chief Sustainability Officer, described the effort as part of the company's broader sustainability and digital inclusion goals, emphasizing its commitment to serving remote and disadvantaged communities.