Building a Smarter, Greener Network: PLDT Inc. and Smart Communications, Inc. have officially partnered with MPower to transition their cell sites and facilities under the Energy Regulatory Commission’s Retail Aggregation Program (RAP), marking a major step toward sustainability and energy efficiency.
In the photo (from left to right): Independent Electricity Market Operator of the Philippines President and CEO Richard Nethercott, Smart COO Anastacio R. Martirez, PLDT COO Menardo G. Jimenez, outgoing ERC Chairperson and CEO Monalisa Dimalanta, Meralco First Vice President and MPower Head Redel M. Domingo, and MPower Retail Sales Head Eddie John V. Adug.
In a bold step toward building a more energy-efficient and connected Philippines, PLDT Inc. and its wireless subsidiary Smart Communications have partnered with MPower, the retail electricity arm of Meralco, to energize 153 of their facilities under the Energy Regulatory Commission’s (ERC) Retail Aggregation Program (RAP).
The rollout includes 144 cell sites and 9 key PLDT and Smart facilities, with a total energy demand surpassing 2,500 kW. This collaboration is more than just an infrastructure upgrade—it’s a strategic alignment of power and connectivity designed to future-proof PLDT and Smart’s vast network across the country.
Power meets connectivity
“Our country’s progress is built on two vital pillars: reliable electricity and strong digital infrastructure,” said Manuel V. Pangilinan, Chairman and CEO of PLDT, Smart, and Meralco. “This initiative reflects how closely intertwined those foundations are. When we combine our resources and align our strengths, we bring greater opportunity to every Filipino—especially those in underserved areas.”
With MPower onboard, PLDT and Smart are tapping into smarter and more sustainable ways of managing energy across their operations. The companies plan to expand the program to additional sites in Visayas and Mindanao before year-end.
The RAP empowers businesses to bundle multiple electricity accounts under a single franchise area and buy power in bulk from licensed suppliers like MPower. This means lower electricity bills, more control over consumption, and access to flexible, renewable energy solutions—ideal for a company like PLDT, which runs one of the nation’s largest and most data-intensive networks.
PLDT Inc. has the largest demand while Smart Communications, Inc. has the most number of accounts enrolled under RAP through MPower. In photo are (L-R) Smart Chief Operating Officer Anastacio R. Martirez, PLDT Chief Operating Officer Menardo G. Jimenez, Meralco First Vice President and MPower Head Redel M. Domingo, MPower Retail Sales Head Eddie John V. Adug.
Greener networks, smarter future
“As we prepare our network for advanced technologies like 5G and AI, we must also be responsible about how we power it,” said Menardo “Butch” Jimenez Jr., PLDT’s Chief Operating Officer. “Our collaboration with MPower helps us operate not just smarter, but greener, while still delivering the world-class service our customers expect.”
Smart COO Anastacio “Boy” Martirez echoed the sentiment: “This is a big win for both our customers and the environment. It’s all about delivering dependable service while managing our energy use more responsibly.”
Sustainability in action
This isn’t PLDT and Smart’s first foray into clean energy. In 2023, the companies integrated geothermal energy into five network hubs in the Visayas. By 2024, 30 of their facilities—including 24 in Metro Manila—were powered entirely by renewables. In total, the group has secured over ₱5 billion in green loans to fund eco-friendly network expansion, including its growing fiber footprint.
The long-term goal is clear: reduce greenhouse gas emissions (Scope 1 and Scope 2) by 40% by 2030, based on 2019 levels. This aligns with global Net Zero ambitions by 2050.
A ripple effect across the industry
MPower’s First Vice President and Head Redel M. Domingo said the partnership marks a turning point: “We’re proud to work with PLDT and Smart in leading this transformation. Our goal is to offer energy solutions that not only improve operational efficiency but also drive the country’s shift to sustainable power.”
Outgoing ERC Chairperson and CEO Monalisa Dimalanta also highlighted the broader significance: “When leaders like PLDT and Smart take decisive steps toward cleaner, smarter energy, it sends a strong signal. It shows that even industry giants can—and should—lead the charge toward a more inclusive and competitive power market.”
In uniting the forces of power and connectivity, PLDT, Smart, and MPower are helping shape a more efficient, environmentally responsible, and digitally empowered future for all Filipinos.