#Data coverage

In a recent webinar on the Open Access in Data Transmission Act hosted by the Senate Economic Planning Office (SEPO), Smart VP and Head of Regulatory Affairs Atty. D Ibay said that new legislation that aims to genuinely address or bridge the digital divide must ensure that data facilities and fiber find their way to serve municipalities in areas that need adequate coverage. Based on data from network analytics firm Ookla, Voice over LTE (VoLTE) penetration in the country reached only 30.9% in 2025. Mobile data isn’t lagging behind, either. Users report dropped mobile data in crowded areas, failed digital payments when the signal dips, or video calls freezing during peak evenings. Urban centers like Metro Manila, parts of Cebu, and selected cities in CALABARZON enjoy relatively better fiber coverage and high‑speed options. But outside these areas, many users still contend with spotty mobile data or borderline‑usable fiber alternatives. The new prepaid satellite internet offers are designed to provide users with on-demand connectivity using Starlink’s low-earth orbit satellite network, especially in areas with limited or no traditional network coverage. Read more in our articles including "PLDT, Smart call for affordable and reasonable regulatory fees to facilitate network rollouts" and "PH among slowest countries in shift away from 3G".