[8 September 2015, Manila] - Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) together with PLDT and Voyager Innovations, today announced that it has entered into a strategic partnership with Uber in the Philippines to elevate the commuting experience for millions of Filipinos. This first-of-its-kind, multi-year partnership introduces free in-car WiFi with Uber and special promotions for Uber riders on Smart's network.

"We're excited to partner with Uber, the world’s leading technology company that is transforming urban mobility, to bring its innovative digitally enabled service to more commuters in the Philippines. Filipinos are early adopters of new technology and through this partnership with Uber, we’re providing our subscribers the opportunity to make their ride experience even more convenient and enjoyable," said Manuel V. Pangilinan, PLDT and Smart Chairman.

Mike Brown, Regional General Manager, Southeast Asia and Australia, New Zealand said, “In Smart, Uber has found the perfect fit to realize our common vision of providing an unrivaled user experience built on a strong foundation of reliability, convenience and network efficiency. The Philippine Government has shown tremendous leadership in recognizing the value of ride-sharing services like Uber and developing new sector specific regulations. It is also why Filipinos today, become the first in Southeast Asia to experience the next generation of truly connected urban mobility.”

The partnership with Uber will include a number of components, which will be rolled out over the coming weeks:

For Uber riders, this includes:

Free in-car Smart WiFi: Starting today, Uber riders will be able to enjoy free in-car WiFi, powered by Smart’s leading network and PLDT's fiber backbone. This service is initially available in select Uber Black vehicles and will be available in all Uber vehicles over the next months.

Special Offers: Throughout the partnership, Uber riders on Smart’s network will be able to avail special promotions, discounts and on-demand experiences.

To celebrate the launch of this partnership, Smart subscribers in Metro Manila who are first time users of the app can get two free Uber rides worth up to PhP300 each starting September 9 until September 30.

The Uber mobile app will be also be pre-installed on all smartphones that come with Smart postpaid subscriptions.

For Uber partner drivers, this includes:

Exclusive Prepaid and Postpaid Packages: As Uber’s official mobile partner in the Philippines, Smart is offering exclusive voice and data packages, bundles and add-ons for Uber partner drivers.

Exclusive phone offers: To make it easier for Uber partner drivers and their loved ones to stay connected, Smart SIM cards, special handset and tablets are being made available via an Uber online store using the Tack This! eCommerce platform from Voyager Innovations. Uber partner drivers can access the shop once they are accredited by Uber.