PLDT has credited its collaborative strategy for halving material losses caused by vandalism between 2022 and 2024.
In a statement, the operator said its Asset Protection & Security Risk Governance (APSRG) unit had successfully leveraged community partnerships and technology to reduce the impact of vandalism, theft and natural disasters on its infrastructure by 50%.
The company reported over 2,000 collaborative efforts in 2024 alone, the majority involving barangays - the smallest unit of local government in the Philippines.
As part of its technology-led approach, PLDT upgraded its ‘164 Security Command Center’, which oversees security, emergency response and intelligence logging. The unit launched a real-time dashboard to monitor roving guard activities and incidents, resulting in faster response times.
“Community engagement is at the heart of our security strategy,” said Leo Gonzales, PLDT Vice President and Head of Property Facilities and Asset Resiliency Management.
“With support from barangays, the military, police and local government, we harness ‘force multipliers’ to protect critical telecoms assets in high-risk areas. By strengthening local partnerships, running anti-fencing initiatives, and equipping community partners with essential tools, we’re building a security network that goes far beyond our own personnel.”
Willie Gonio, Head of PLDT’s Security Central Command and Administration Center, added: “By engaging communities and strategically deploying technology, we are creating a more comprehensive and responsive security ecosystem. The reduction in material losses, despite ongoing challenges, highlights the effectiveness of this integrated approach. We will continue to innovate and deepen these partnerships moving forward.”
