“We at PLDT and Smart are closely coordinating with our key partners in government and the ASEAN50 organizing committee to provide the telecommunications and ICT requirements that will help this ASEAN Summit achieve its objectives,” said PLDT and Smart EVP and Chief Revenue Officer Eric R. Alberto.
 
“Our facilities and our teams on-ground have been preparing the necessary equipment to ensure that our services run smoothly and help ensure the success of all events,” he added.
 
PLDT is boosting its wired facilities to provide high-speed Wifi internet connectivity for the delegates in Fontana Convention Center, Stotsenberg Convention Center, Royce Hotel and Quest Hotel in Clark, Pampanga, while Smart will augment its wireless coverage in these areas to provide high-speed LTE connectivity for mobile users for the week-long duration of the conference.
 
In Metro Manila, PLDT and Smart will bolster connectivity facilities in the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC), the World Trade Center, and Marriott Hotel in Pasay City where ASEAN related meetings and celebration of the 50th founding anniversary of the ASEAN will be held.
 
PLDT will also install the phone lines and PABx facilities for the communication requirements of the organizing committee from the Office of the President and the respective embassies of the attending states.
 
As of late, more than 20 heads of states are confirmed to participate in the ASEAN-related meetings in Clark and Pasay. With key dates already declared as non-working holidays, several routes in Manila, Bulacan and Pampanga have already been closed to motorists including those near and surrounding the venues of the meetings.
 
The Philippines is host to the ASEAN 2017 where member states and global partners have been holding several conferences, meetings, and bilateral talks with the aim of enhancing cooperation among the 10-member states and its neighbors. Coinciding with the 50th founding anniversary of ASEAN, this year’s theme, “Partnering for Change Engaging the World” reflects the Philippine government’s advocacy to promote unity among ASEAN member states and its global partners.