PLDT strengthens local security, partners with barangay to combat copper theft

Leading integrated telco network PLDT Inc. (PLDT), through its Asset Protection & Security Risk Governance (APSRG) Group, has launched a grassroots initiative aimed at strengthening partnerships with local communities to protect critical telecommunications infrastructure.

The program’s pilot rollout, held in Barangay Bangkal, Makati City, signals the beginning of a broader campaign to deepen security awareness at the barangay level. The activation was led by Willie Antalan, Head of PLDT’s Asset Protection Division (APD) for Greater Metro Manila South (GMMS), in collaboration with Bangkal Barangay Captain Virgilio Hilario III and barangay officials.

“We at PLDT believe that protecting our network infrastructure is a shared responsibility. Through this program, we aim to arm our barangays with the knowledge and tools necessary to keep our communities connected by helping secure vital telco assets in their area, as well as assisting each other in bringing to justice perpetrators of crimes such as theft and vandalism of telco equipment,” Antalan said, emphasizing how local vigilance plays a key role in ensuring the reliability and resilience of telco services.

This initiative is part of PLDT’s broader response to persistent theft and vandalism targeting its network. In 2024 alone, nearly 1,000 loss incidents were recorded—mostly involving copper cables, which made up 91% of the total cost of material losses. But the impact goes beyond lost materials: these attacks disrupted services, leading to customer complaints and lost business. In parts of Manila, theft occurred as often as every three days.

To further strengthen on-ground capability, PLDT distributed tools such as flashlights, night sticks, and raincoats to barangay watchmen to support their patrols. Barangay officials and residents also participated in a dialogue with the PLDT team in attendance, where they explained the importance of securing telco equipment to maintaining continuous service in their area. Residents also used this forum to raise service-related inquiries and other subscriber concerns.

“This pilot in Bangkal is just the beginning, as we plan to rollout this program to other communities in Metro Manila and outside of it, creating a nationwide grassroots network of local connectivity defenders,” said Col Wilfredo F. Gonio, Head of Security Central Command and Administration Center at PLDT.

PLDT and Smart’s stepped-up asset protection initiatives support PLDT’s mission to deliver reliable service and advance the Philippines’ sustainable development by securing critical telecom infrastructure, and thereby ensuring uninterrupted connectivity for homes, businesses, education, and emergency response. These efforts align with the UN Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure, promoting resilient infrastructure and technological progress through strategic security measures and strong community partnerships.