Eastern Communications Ramps Up Activities for 2025 National ICT Month

Photo from the National Information and Communications Technology Summit 2025 (NICT2025)  

held at The Manila Hotel from June 19-20, 2025. 

In alignment with the Philippines’ nationwide push for digital transformation, Eastern  Communications extended its full support to the Chief Information Officers Forum Foundation,  Inc. (CIOFF) for this year’s National ICT Summit 2025 (NICT2025) — the culminating event of  National ICT Month. 

This year’s NICT2025 took place last June 19-20, 2025, at The Manila Hotel, with the theme:  “Transforming Together: Building an Inclusive Digital Nation.” 

As the official connectivity partner of the summit, Eastern Communications provided a seamless,  reliable internet connection for the event, making it more accessible for its online participants.  Through this collaboration, the company actively supports initiatives that promote innovation,  digital inclusion, and greater ICT awareness across the country.  

“At Eastern Communications, we continuously seek opportunities to support the country’s digital  advancement by way of strategic partnerships, digital education programs, and by empowering  communities with reliable and accessible connectivity,” said Eastern Communications Chief  Revenue and Innovation Officer Edsel Paglinawan. 

Paglinawan also represented Eastern Communications as one of the panelists for Cebu Business Month’s (CBM) 2025 Technology and Innovation Forum held at Marco Polo Plaza Cebu. 

The telco provider will also roll out its latest “Brown Bag Session” and “Access Eastern” tech  workshops across Metro Manila and the new videos of its "Thoughts on Tech" video podcast as  part of its ICT month initiatives. 

Driving Nation-Building Through NICT Summit 2025 

Supported by the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), the  NICT2025 brought together national leaders, private sector innovators, and global ICT experts to  present strategies and technologies that advance inclusive digital development. 

The summit was joined by around 400 in-person delegates and 200–500 online participants,  including representatives from the academe, IT associations, private industry, and government  bodies. The event previewed the upcoming ASEAN CIO Association (ACIOA) 9th Forum in  Singapore this September, featuring thought leadership on digital transformation, AI,  cybersecurity, sustainability, and emerging tech trends shaping ASEAN’s future. 

Furthering its mission to support nation-building and empower Filipino communities through  technology, Eastern Communications is proud to be part of the annual National ICT Month  celebrations, observed every June under Presidential Proclamation No. 1521, s. 2008. 

Empowering Businesses Through Tech Workshops

Eastern Communications Senior Product Manager Edwin De Jesus shares key cybersecurity insights 

during the Access Eastern run held in Clark, Pampanga. 

Eastern Communications announces the return of its award-winning thought leadership events  with its annual “Access Eastern” tech workshops, and its new learning series, the Eastern “Brown  Bag Session.” These series of workshops will gather key opinion leaders in the technology sector  to build collaboration and drive digital transformation among businesses in the Philippines. The  dynamic lineup of sessions include: 

● Future-Proofing Philippine Retail Industry for next Gen Connectivity in partnership with  Huawei 

● Accelerating Innovation Through Next Gen/Emerging Technologies in partnership with  Cisco 

● Resilient IT-BPM Delivery Using Hybrid Cloud in partnership with CloudSigma ● Empowering Governance Through Emerging Technologies in partnership with  Nexusguard 

● Securing Distributed Teams with Zero Trust and SASE in partnership with CATO Networks ● Access Eastern: Solutions That Power Your Business with workshop runs in Clark &  Laguna 

These industry-focused tech workshops will provide valuable insights and actionable strategies  for businesses looking to leverage the latest technological advancements. 

"Thoughts on Tech" Podcast Returns with Ai & Digital Literacy Focus

Snapshot from the third season of Eastern Communications’ “Thoughts on Tech” video podcast series featuring 

host Danie Laurel and guest Tonichi Parekh, Vice President of Concentrix. 

Eastern Communications also launched the third series of its official video podcast, "Thoughts on  Tech," hosted by renowned news anchor and event host Danie Laurel. This series features  insightful conversations with industry leaders, focusing on ICT as a crucial enabler of progress  and why digital transformation is now a fundamental necessity for all businesses. 

The series will address the need for greater AI and ICT awareness among Philippine businesses.  Research from the Philippine Institute for Development Studies (PIDS) indicates that despite  national efforts for AI integration, local businesses, especially MSMEs, face challenges in  adoption due to barriers in infrastructure, awareness, and funding. As of 2021, only 14.9% of  businesses were using AI technologies, highlighting the early stages of AI adoption in the country. 

The "Thoughts on Tech" episodes are released weekly throughout June via Eastern’s official  Facebook and Youtube channel: 

● The Future of the Filipino Workforce in the Age of AI featuring Tonichi Parekh, Vice  President of Concentrix. 

● The Creator Economy, Its Challenges and Unique Trends with Marla De Castro Rausch,  President of Creative Content Creators Association of the Philippines (SIKAP) and CEO of Animation Vertigo. 

● From Classroom to Boardroom: Integrating Digital Skills in Education with Aurelien Chu,  Co-Founder of Eskwelabs. 

● Code Red to Code Ready: Managing Risks in Modern Enterprises with Alvin Harilla,  Eastern Communications’ Enterprise Risk & Quality Management Head. 

Through these various initiatives, Eastern Communications supports the Philippines' digital  transformation journey by empowering businesses with knowledge and championing digital  literacy during the National ICT Month. 

OTHER PHOTOS: 

Photo from the National Information and Communications Technology Summit 2025 (NICT2025)  

panel discussion held at The Manila Hotel from June 19-20, 2025. 

Eastern Communications (EC) and CIO Forum Foundation (CIOFF) representatives at the NICT2025 Summit. [From L to R:] National Epidemiology  Center, Philippines Director Eric Tayag, CIOFF Chairman George Kintanar, EC Segment Marketing Manager Gian Barcarse, DICT Assistant Secretary  and CIOFF President Philip Varilla and CIOFF Chair, Committee on Ways and Means Minerva Mesina.

Eastern Communications Segment Marketing Manager Gian Barcarse presents strategies behind Innovative E-Government Services

                   

Photo of Eastern Communications Segment Marketing Manager Daniella Banzon highlighting the company’s innovative solutions at Cebu Business  Month’s (CBM) 2025 Technology and Innovation Forum 

Sophos Senior Sales Engineer Linette Mananghaya highlights the benefits of Sophos solutions during  

the Access Eastern run in Clark, Pampanga.

Snapshot from the third season of Eastern Communications’ “Thoughts on Tech” video podcast series featuring host Danie Laurel and guest Marla De Castro Rausch, president of Creative Content Creators Association of the Philippines (SIKAP)

Bridging the Digital Divide: Eastern Communications, Unconnected.Org Partner to Power Connectivity in 10 Underserved Learning Communities

 

Premier telecommunications and ICT solutions provider Eastern Communications partners with unconnected.org to bring vital internet connectivity to ten geographically isolated and disadvantaged (GIDA) schools across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.

As part of its mission in championing digital literacy and empowering unconnected communities, Eastern will provide free internet access to students, teachers, and the surrounding communities in ten remote locations, starting with eight target areas within Dipolog, General Santos, Tuguegarao, Naga, Kalibo, Bais, Davao, and Zamboanga.

“We believe that access to the internet is no longer a privilege, but a basic need, especially for education and access to vital information,” said Jed Estanislao, Chief Marketing and Experience Officer of Eastern Communications. “Through this partnership with unconnected.org, not only can we help bridge the digital divide but also drive digital literacy, especially in far-flung areas.”

The project officially commenced with a signing ceremony and joint planning session involving representatives from Eastern Communications and unconnected.org.

Providing internet access to remote areas is key for unconnected citizens to participate in the digital economy - this is especially significant for key educational institutions in Geographically Isolated and Disadvantaged Areas (GIDA).

With reliable connectivity, students from the remote schools can supplement their classroom education with up-to-date online resources and explore more opportunities on the web.

Beyond just connectivity, Eastern Communications and unconnected.org are committed to digital empowerment, with digital literacy programs planned for these schools.

“This initiative reflects Eastern’s continued commitment to nation-building. By providing not just connectivity but also the tools to use it responsibly and effectively, we are investing in the future of these communities,” added Estanislao.

To learn more about Eastern Communications’ upcoming partnerships and community initiatives, visit www.eastern.com.ph or follow their Facebook page.

Eastern partners with NGOs to enhance mangrove ecosystems in Batangas and drive educational inclusivity

 

As the Philippines’ premier telecommunication company, Eastern Communications is making significant strides towards sustainability, a goal that manifests in various Environment, Social, and Governance (ESG) initiatives. From preserving coastal ecosystems to uplifting underprivileged communities, Eastern Communications actively seeks to create a positive impact that aligns with global standards and supports the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in the Philippine Development Plan (PDP) 2023-2028.

Environmental Initiatives: Nurturing Nature for Future Generations

To support the typhoon-prone country, Eastern continues its environmental stewardship through various initiatives. Building on its previous partnerships, including tree-planting activities with the Tuguegarao One Million Trees Movement in collaboration with former team Eastern Communications Perlas Spikers, the company continues to champion ecological conservation this year with coastal rehabilitation initiatives with Project Pristine for Love Boracay 2024 and Metro Divers’ Code Blue 2024 underwater clean-up drive.

One of its upcoming initiatives is the mangrove planting initiative, to be conducted in December in partnership with the Ramon Aboitiz Foundation, Inc. (RAFI) One To Tree program. Mangroves, which protect coastlines from erosion, serve as nurseries for marine life, and play an essential role in carbon sequestration, are critical to combating climate change. To begin its long-term mangrove reforestation initiatives, Eastern kicks this off by planting 1,000 mangroves in Brgy. Lumaniag, Municipality of Lian, Batangas. Through this, Eastern will contribute to enhancing and nurturing these vital ecosystems and mitigating the impact of climate-related issues in vulnerable coastal areas.

Photo of mangrove-planting site in Lian, Batangas

Social Initiatives: Empowering the Next Generation

Eastern Communications' has long believed in the importance of supporting the next generation and furthering the quality of their education especially in underserved communities. Recently, Eastern partnered with the "My Dream in a Shoebox" (MDIAS) campaign to help bridge the educational gap faced by underprivileged children. With the help of Eastern employee volunteers, this initiative focused on providing children with essential learning materials and opportunities for growth.

​​"Thank you to the generous hearts of our Eastern Communications partners. You inspire us by helping us make bigger dreams come true," said Bea Lim, CEO and President of TeamAsia.

The partnership with MDIAS began in 2023, and continued this year with 300 Dream Kits gifted to beneficiaries of the Payatas Orione Foundation Inc. in Quezon City. Each kit contained school supplies, supporting these children in their academic journey and empowering them with resources to pursue their dreams. Now in its 16th year, MDIAS has impacted countless young lives by offering educational materials, funding assistance, and access to technology, aligning with Eastern Communications' advocacy for inclusive and equitable quality education.

Eastern Communications held its My Dream in a Shoebox gift-giving session with beneficiaries of the Payatas Orione Foundation Inc. in Quezon City.

According to the World Bank, nine out of ten Filipino children at age 10 are unable to read and comprehend a basic, age-appropriate text. Furthermore, Filipino students ranked among the lowest globally in mathematics, reading, and science, as shown by the 2022 Program for International Student Assessment (PISA). The Philippines placed 77th out of 81 countries, with performance falling below the global average across all subjects.

"By providing these Dream Kits, we’re helping break down the barriers of limited resources, opening doors for children to continue their educational journey and reach for their dreams,” said Jed Estanislao, Eastern Communications Head of Marketing and Customer Experience.

Discover fundraising and outreach programs to help make a brighter reality for more and more learners in the Philippines at www.shoeboxcampaign.teamasia.com.

In addition to its efforts to cultivate the talent of the Filipino youth, Eastern also launched a digital art contest during October to November. The competition, organized in partnership with Wacom Philippines, invited young artists and creatives from Baguio City and the Cordillera region to showcase their unique skills and creativity. With the theme ‘Philippines: A Connected Digital Nation,’ the contest challenged participants to express the connectedness of Filipinos in the modern age through the use of digital art.

“We celebrate these talented artists and their inspiring work. It’s our hope that these awards not only recognize their exceptional creativity but also fuel their passion for years to come,” shared Estanislao.

Governance Initiatives: Promoting Transparency and Ethical Standards

Good governance lies at the core of Eastern Communications' operational practices. The company is committed to maintaining high standards of transparency, accountability, and ethical practices, which are essential for building trust with customers and partners, and ensuring long-term sustainability.

The company takes pride in being the first telecommunications company to be ISO certified. It recently renewed its ISO 9001:2015 and ISO 27001:2013 certifications, affirming its dedication to maintaining high standards of service excellence and best industry-standard practices. These certifications highlight Eastern’s top-tier service solutions for clients, setting the benchmark for quality and excellence in the telco industry.

Employee welfare and professional development are equally prioritized, with Eastern Communications investing in training programs that equip employees with the skills needed to support the company’s sustainability agenda. By creating a culture of learning and integrity, Eastern Communications builds a workforce that not only drives business success but also champions ethical practices.

As the company continues to evolve in the digital age, Eastern Communications exemplifies how sustainability and corporate responsibility can harmonize with business growth. In doing so, they not only drive their mission forward but also contribute to a more sustainable and inclusive future for the Philippines, setting a standard for other companies to follow. Learn more about Eastern at www.eastern.com.ph.

Eastern Communications Partners with Industry Experts to Share Cybersecurity Insights for Business Protection

 

Eastern Communications launches Thoughts on Tech Series 2 video podcast, focusing on Cybersecurity Awareness, featuring News5 anchor Jes Delos Santos, DICT Undersecretary Jeffrey Dy, and other tech industry experts.

In observance of Cybersecurity Awareness Month, Eastern Communications spoke with industry leaders for insights to help businesses safeguard themselves from the growing threat of cyberattacks.

Between January and August 2024, the Philippine National Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-PH) reported over 2,000 cyber incidents affecting various organizations. This is part of a broader rise in cybercrimes in the country, with the Philippine National Police (PNP) Anti-Cybercrime Group (ACG) documenting a 21.8% increase in cybercrime cases during the first quarter of 2024 compared to the same period in 2023.

From January to March 2024, ACG recorded 4,469 cybercrimes — an average of 49 cases per day compared to 40 in 2023. Online selling scams topped the list, followed by investment scams and credit/debit card fraud. This surge signals a sharp rise in cyberattacks across the Philippines, highlighting the urgent need for robust cybersecurity measures​.

Meanwhile, anti-scam app Whoscall reported a 200% surge in the number of scam calls and messages between January and August 2024, with over 3 million reported text scams and more than 320,000 scam calls.

Forms of cyber attacks have also changed, and cybercriminals are becoming more ICT-enabled as they resort to technologies like Fake Base Transceiver Stations (BTS) to directly attack users by sending spam and fraudulent SMS messages.

To address these escalating challenges, Eastern Communications’ Thoughts on Tech podcast series featured in-depth discussions with tech experts, exploring critical cybersecurity topics. These include the government’s role in mitigating cyber threats, safeguarding customer data, managing information technology (IT) risks for enterprises, and the opportunities and risks of artificial intelligence (AI).

Cybersecurity Solutions for Every Business

Cybersecurity was once seen as an optional and additional cost for many businesses. Today, it is an essential investment for both small enterprises and large corporations. Rex Evangelista, Head of IT at Eastern Communications, noted this change of perspective for cybersecurity.

Rex Evangelista, Eastern Communications Head of I.T. Division

“I would say that in terms of the importance of the organizations and the shift of organizations in the companies, they are now able to understand the importance of security in their organization,” he said, adding that mitigating cyber risks also protects a company’s reputation.

Evangelista also noted the importance of proactive cybersecurity strategies to mitigate the risks and maintain business continuity.

“They have to liken to insurance, that if [attacks] happen, somehow they are covered. The cybersecurity solutions are actually there to make sure that operations will continue, it will not be disrupted,” he explained.

Educating employees and spreading cybersecurity awareness is another need for a company to ensure employees are also protected against cyber threats, according to Evangelista.

Securing Customer Trust and Data

For businesses, especially in the finance industry, securing customer data is paramount. Pancho Reyna, Managing Director of AI, Data, and Engineering of UBX (UnionBank’s digital arm), emphasized the evolving nature of cyberattacks and the necessity of robust security measures.

Pancho Reyna, Managing Director of AI, Data, and Engineering of UBX

“From a cybersecurity perspective, the technology is also rapidly evolving and can be used for any malicious or any form of attacks,” he said.

Reyna shared that cybersecurity in the finance industry is not just about prevention, but also deterrence. “It’s making sure that your systems are difficult, if not impossible, to penetrate,” he explained.

Businesses should anticipate attacks and implement security layers that make them harder targets. Reyna also noted that business owners should be aware of their cybersecurity needs and adopt these necessities accordingly to protect themselves against cyber risks.

The Government's Role Against Cyberthreats

Cybersecurity is not only the sole responsibility of the private sector. Jeffrey Ian Dy, Undersecretary - Infostructure Management, Cybersecurity and Upskilling of the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) highlights the government’s efforts to protect the country against cyberattacks and offers key lessons for businesses

Jeffrey Ian Dy, Undersecretary - Infostructure Management, Cybersecurity and Upskilling of the DICT

Dy pointed out that while the finance industry is more susceptible to cyber threats, no industry is actually safe from these attacks. The government, telecommunications companies, and the academe are also the most targeted institutions, especially for advanced persistent threats (APTs) like state-sponsored attacks, and cyber terrorism.

The undersecretary emphasized that understanding both the offensive and defensive sides of cybersecurity is crucial.

“Hacking is a lot easier now, and that's the problem. The cost of offensive cyber security capabilities is less than the cost of defending,” Dy said. This means businesses must proactively strengthen their defenses.

He added that small and large businesses alike must prioritize cybersecurity investments in critical areas, such as securing Wi-Fi access points and implementing strong password protocols.

The government’s National Cybersecurity Plan 2028 brings together multiple agencies to address cybercrime. However, Dy stressed that this fight requires cooperation from all sectors, including private businesses.

“Security is not about securing everything. It's focusing your money on where it matters the most. In that way, you can significantly lessen your security cost,” the undersecretary advised.

Understanding AI: Opportunities, Threats, and Training Your People

AI is a double-edged sword that offers both opportunities and risks. Catz Jalandoni, Country Head of the Global AI Council Philippines, emphasized that businesses must understand AI's potential,while also preparing for its associated threats.

Catz Jalandoni, Country Head of the Global AI Council Philippines

AI can streamline business operations, drive innovation, and even help businesses stay competitive — 89% of Filipino leaders agree that AI adoption is key to remaining competitive. Jalandoni noted that AI is one of the tools that is easy to learn and is easy to access, with numerous free online courses available for users.

“Technology is a tool, use it, so that it will benefit you, and embrace it so that you are able to do more things that you thought are impossible or you are incapable of,” she said.

However, like any new technology, Jalandoni warned that AI can still be used. To prevent this, she introduced the concept of “mothering” AI, which involves teaching AI to behave ethically.

“When you mother, you say not only how it's supposed to be done, but also whether it's right or wrong. And that's something that I'm championing, for people to actually ‘mother’ your AI,” Jalandoni explained. “You can teach it not only how to find information that is relevant to you, but how to access information that can actually be functional for you and what type of information it should be accessing.”

Strengthening Your Cyber Defenses

As cyber threats continue to evolve, businesses must stay ahead of potential risks by investing in the right technology, training their people, and adopting proactive security measures. Eastern Communications offers a suite of ICT solutions designed to help businesses protect their data and operations, from secure network solutions to robust cybersecurity tools.

Eastern has also partnered with the American Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines (AmCham) in mounting a special session entitled "Strengthening Cybersecurity in the Philippines: Best Practices, Emerging Threats, and Future-Proofing Strategies," on October 30, 2024, at Robert Sears Hall, AmCham Philippines, Makati City. The event will help businesses learn how to stay ahead of the curve and ensure their company's resilience in the face of evolving cyber challenges.

For more information on how Eastern Communications can help your business defend against cyber threats, contact 5300-7000 or visit www.eastern.com.ph.

Eastern Communications Expands Reach to Roxas City’s Emerging Digital Hub

Eastern Communications,  the Philippines' pioneering telecommunications company and ICT solutions provider, continues its mission to empower more businesses across the Philippines as the company launches its services in Roxas City, Capiz. The telco provider officially expanded to the city through its “Via Eastern” launch event held on September 13, 2024, at the San Antonio Resort, Baybay, Roxas City.

Eastern Communications and Roxas City partners raise a toast for Eastern’s launch in the city. [Form L to R:] ETPI Head of Visayas Regional Operations Rafael Castellano, Capiz Halaran Chamber of Commerce and Industry Former President Dale Bernas, Capiz Local Economic Development and Investment Promotion Office Head Rio Garcia, Province of Capiz Provincial Information Officer and Spokesperson Atty. Luvim Amores, honorable Roxas City Mayor Ronnie Dadivas, Segment Marketing Head Gian Conde, Regional Sales Division Head Anthony Co, and President & CEO of Pueblo De Panay Township Jose Neri Ong.

“We have Eastern Communications, another partner locator here in Roxas City, as we aim for more practical and efficient IT solutions. As a digital city, our LGU is heavily investing on infrastructure, talents, and utilities,” said honorable Roxas City Mayor, Ronnie Dadivas, in his speech during the Via Eastern Roxas launch event. “On behalf of the city government, we in Roxas City would like to extend our gratitude to Eastern Communications, for its presence and entrance in the city,” he added.

Roxas City Mayor, Ronnie Dadivas welcomes Eastern Communications in the city.

The expansion will provide Roxas-based enterprises with access to cutting-edge digital tools and insights on how digital transformation can propel their growth in an increasingly competitive landscape. As Eastern Communications marks its presence in the area, it plans to extend its services to other cities across Capiz in the future.

"We are excited to bring Eastern Communications' services to Roxas City, supporting its growth and helping it thrive in the digital age," said Mike Castañeda, Vice President and Head of Sales at Eastern Communications. “We are proud to support Roxas City’s vision of becoming a center for business and technology through our ICT solutions by offering business-grade connectivity and digital tools that address the unique needs of the local business landscape.”

Empowering Roxas City’s evolving digital and business landscape

Eastern Communications' expansion into Roxas City aligns with the city's anticipated growth in the coming years, especially after being recognized as one of the digital cities by the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) and the IT and Business Process Association of the Philippines (IBPAP).

Roxas is currently gearing up to establish the nearly 700-hectare Pueblo De Panay Township, which is expected to become the Philippines’ largest techno hub. The township project aims to generate over 40,000 jobs and boost the IT-BPM industry, the key focus area for the city. With a commitment to providing businesses with reliable and scalable digital solutions, Eastern Communications will help Roxas City achieve its goal of becoming a digital hub and fueling local economic growth.

Reliable connectivity and ICT solutions for Roxas City enterprises

With Roxas City's emerging micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), the growing sectors of IT-BPM sector and tourism, Eastern Communications is ready to support businesses in driving economic development through its business-grade connectivity and customized ICT solutions. The telco provider’s expansion will bring its signature connectivity services in Roxas City, including Eastern Fiber 1, a shared high-speed fiber service designed for SMEs to ensure optimal performance during business hours, and Eastern Internet Direct Service (IDS), a dedicated internet solution tailored for uninterrupted, round-the-clock operations. These services will ensure that businesses of all sizes have access to fast, reliable, and secure internet connections, essential for day-to-day operations and growth.

Eastern Communications will also offer an array of ICT solutions, such as Network Solutions, Cybersecurity Solutions, Cloud and Data Center Solutions, and Business Applications. These services are designed to equip local businesses with the tools they need to succeed in a highly competitive and evolving marketplace. The telco provider’s entry into Roxas City fortifies its nationwide expansion through the Philippine Domestic Submarine Cable Network (PDSCN), the longest undersea fiber cable network in the Philippines spanning 2,500 kilometers. This initiative, in partnership with Globe Telecom Inc. and InfiniVAN, Inc., reinforces Eastern Communications’ mission to provide resilient and reliable internet connectivity across the country. To learn more about Eastern Communications’ products and services, contact 5300-7000 or visit www.eastern.com.ph.

Eastern Communications Recognized and Awarded for Its Nationwide Network Infrastructure

 Eastern Communications, the Philippines' pioneering telecommunications company and ICT solutions provider, proudly announces its victory at the Asian Technology Excellence Awards (ATEA) 2024. The telco provider won the Philippines Technology Excellence Award in the Infrastructure Technology - Telecommunications category for its groundbreaking Philippine Domestic Submarine Cable Network (PDSCN) project, a major initiative aimed at strengthening the nation’s telecommunications infrastructure amidst natural calamities.

Eastern Communications, recognized at the 2024 Asian Technology Excellence Awards in Conrad, Bangkok
[From L to R:] Chris Head, Contributing Editor for Asian Business Review with Eastern Communications Team: Brand Communications Supervisor Angelou Leonardo, Co-Coordinator Vince Tempongko, AVP & Head of NPEI Delfin Lopez, Brand Communications Head Hannah Lazatin, and Outside Plant Director-NPEI Felipe Paez Jr.

“The Philippines is prone to typhoons and in some remote areas, connectivity is not even stable on regular days. The PDSCN project is more than just an infrastructure development and our goal is to ensure that unserved and underserved areas have access to reliable and resilient internet services, even in the face of natural disasters,” said Delfin Lopez, AVP and Head of Network Planning, Engineering and Implementation at Eastern Communications.

The award, presented by the Asian Business Review Magazine, celebrates the top technological innovators across the region, recognizing exceptional companies that are redefining industries and driving digital transformation. Eastern Communications’ victory in the telecommunications category underscores the company’s pivotal role in addressing the country’s communication vulnerabilities and supporting the ongoing digital evolution.

Apart from this, Eastern’s nationwide infrastructure and expansion efforts also gained global recognition and was previously awarded the Telecom Infrastructure Deployment category at the 2024 Carrier Community Global Awards in Berlin, Germany in June 2024. 

Stronger connectivity for all

The PDSCN is the result of a strategic partnership between Eastern Communications, Globe Group, and InfiniVAN. With a PHP 4.3 billion investment, the project extended the reach of high-speed internet to underserved areas and ensured the creation of alternative routes for data transmission, minimizing the risk of service disruptions during calamities.

Through this, Eastern Communications significantly bolstered its presence in Visayas and Mindanao with 33 points of interconnection spanning multiple regions. This extensive network provides enhanced connectivity for every Filipino, laying the foundation for digital inclusion across the archipelago and ensuring that the Philippines remains competitive in the digital age.

As the telco provider celebrates its achievement at the ATEA, Eastern Communications remains steadfast in its goal to be at the forefront of the country’s digital transformation journey. The recognition not only highlights the success of the PDSCN project but also affirms the company’s role as a leader in providing resilient and reliable connectivity solutions across the Philippines.

For more information about Eastern Communications and its initiatives, contact 5300-7000 or visit www.eastern.com.ph.