#network

The Philippines remains among the slowest countries in transitioning away from 3G networks, with most mobile users still relying on older devices that do not support newer voice technologies. Based on data from network analytics firm Ookla, Voice over LTE (VoLTE) penetration in the country reached only 30.9% in 2025. This means nearly seven in 10 mobile users are still dependent on legacy 3G services ahead of the government-mandated shutdown of 3G networks by the end of 2026. VoLTE allows voice calls to run through 4G LTE networks and is considered a key step toward wider 4G and 5G adoption. PLDT’s extensive nationwide network infrastructure allows more households across the Philippines to access fiber prepaid services. These issues are less about “last mile” throughput and more about network resilience, congestion management, and infrastructure density. Where the network still breaks Despite impressive headline numbers, the Philippine broadband landscape remains uneven. Some regions still rely on weaker or older transport networks, meaning even if the local ISP offers a fast plan, upstream bottlenecks can create jitter, latency spikes, and inconsistent service. Read more in our articles including "Globe 5G roaming coverage expands to 67 countries, territories" and "PH among slowest countries in shift away from 3G".