Google, Smart Wifi jointly pledge to power the nation with free, fast, and reliable internet

[The following is a press release from PLDT Enterprise.]

MANILA, Philippines — Smart Wifi joins hands with Google to bring free internet services to the Philippines, allowing more Filipinos access to world-class Wi-Fi connectivity.

With PLDT and Smart similarly advocating to provide connectivity to all Filipinos nationwide, the partnership seemed only fitting. Powered by Smart Wifi’s nationwide infrastructure, more citizens will be given access to connectivity through the growing number of Smart Wifi hubs throughout the country.

“All our efforts are driven primarily by our mission to provide universal access to information,” said Google Next Billion Users Chief Business Officer David Shapiro. Google is optimistic with the seamless delivery of reliable connectivity.

“We are happy to partner with Smart Wifi in giving more Filipinos access to new opportunities and learning tools through the internet—empowering them in a meaningful way,” asserted Google Philippines Country Manager Kenneth Lingan.

To date, over 63% of Filipinos are said to have access to the Internet but the partnership aims to see growth in these numbers for the Philippines to become a global player.

As one of the most active social media users in the world, the Philippines’ access to free wi-fi may be critical to the overall climate of the global economy—with studies led by the World Bank showing that GDP growth may be correlated to increased internet usage.

With the group leading the country’s digital transformation, it also hopes that the partnership will expedite such evolution towards digital.

“It is an honor for us to join hands with an esteemed technology leader who shares in our vision of empowering our citizens with connectivity. More than being a testament to our technological adeptness, this milestone signifies our unwavering commitment to prompt the next chapter of digital transformation for the country,” SVP & head of PLDT and Smart Enterprise Business Groups Jovy Hernandez said of the partnership.

“Technology is a great equalizer of opportunities and as the country’s premier ICT and digital services provider, we are constantly looking for ways to innovate and uplift the everyday experiences of our customers,” said PLDT and Smart chief revenue officer and ePLDT president & CEO Eric Alberto. – Rappler.com