Philippines national carrier PLDT has announced the completion of its domestic fiber-optic network (DFON) expansion project in Mindanao. The fiber infrastructure runs through the provinces of Agusan del Norte, Agusan del Sur, Davao del Norte, and Davao del Sur, and covers more than 300 km, fortifying the loop in Mindanao island. The new infrastructure complements the current network that stretches from Cagayan de Oro to Malaybalay, Davao, Tagum, Bayugan, and Butuan.
The fiber-optic cables have been installed underground for protection from wind damage, falling trees, and utility poles. According to PLDT, this additional resiliency will complement the advanced capacity in the DFON facilities. That capacity stands at more than 300 Gbps in the local loop; the service provider plans to increase the capacity to 400 Gbps by year's end.
Over the last 10 years, PLDT has invested P300 billion ($6 billion) to roll out what it asserts is the country's most expansive domestic and international network infrastructure. Last year, PLDT budgeted approximately P48 billion ($1 billion) for capital expenses, setting aside a portion for further domestic fiber infrastructure expansion.
In February of this year, PLDT announced plans to expand its fiber-to-the-home (FTTH) coverage by about 80% to reach 4.4 million homes by the end of the year (see "PLDT to expand Philippines FTTH service by 80%"). The carrier says it is also deploying hybrid technology, providing fiber-like speeds to customers connected by copper facilities.
"Our sustained network investments are part of our commitment to deliver the best quality services, particularly internet connectivity, all over the country," said Manuel V. Pangilinan, PLDT chairman, and CEO. "With the completion of this project, customers using our fixed and mobile phone networks in Mindanao will experience even more superior voice, data and multimedia services."
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