After deploying 5G networks to select areas for the past few months, Smart announced that it’s 5G network will go live on July 30. In its press release, 5G will be available in the following areas: Makati Central Business District (CBD), Bonifacio Global City CBD, Araneta City, SM Megamall and Mall of Asia Bay Area. In addition, 5G will be available in high traffic areas like North Avenue in Quezon City, Taft Avenue in Manila, Ortigas CBD, and Clark Green City in Pampanga.

“The launch of Smart’s 5G service enables the Philippines to level up and join the ranks of countries utilizing the next generation of mobile technology. For our customers, it opens the door to an even higher level of customer experience in terms of enjoying video, playing esports and using more powerful digital services,” PLDT Chief Revenue Officer and Smart President and CEO Alfredo Panlilio said. Those who want to experience 5G need to have a 5G-activated SIM and Smart-Certified phones.

Smart has been working extensively in deploying commercial 5G to the Philippines for the past few years. It deployed its first 5G towers in Clark and Makati last November 2018, followed by Araneta City and Ateneo de Manila University last year. Smart also started rolling out 5G-ready SIM cards since late last year, and is expected to have a capital expenditure (capex) of Php 70 billion this year for building additional infrastructure for 4G/LTE and 5G.