In response, PLDT Home has introduced Fiber Always On, a broadband solution that automatically shifts to LTE connectivity whenever fiber service is disrupted.
PLDT Home, in a statement, said it is the first and only internet service provider in the Philippines to offer a modem with built-in LTE backup that automatically activates during fiber outages.
Seamless switch
The hybrid modem automatically switches to its LTE connection whenever fiber service is disrupted, minimizing interruptions without requiring customers to activate a mobile hotspot, maintain a secondary internet connection or subscribe to a separate backup service.
Once the fiber connection is restored, the modem automatically reconnects to the fiber network without any action required from users.
According to PLDT Home, the innovation is designed to provide a more resilient internet experience by leveraging the combined strengths of the company's fiber and wireless networks.
"Today, the internet has become a vital part of everyday family life—whether it's for work, online learning, entertainment or staying close to loved ones," PLDT Home vice president and head of Home Fixed Broadband Viboy E. Añonuevo said in the statement.
"We understand how disruptive it can be when that connection is suddenly interrupted. That's why with PLDT Home Fiber Always On, we're giving families added peace of mind by keeping them reliably connected even during unexpected outages," he added.
Staying connected
PLDT noted that maintaining internet connectivity requires an extensive fiber network that spans several kilometers.
While generally resilient, fiber infrastructure can occasionally be affected by accidental damage caused by construction activities, roadworks, pests and vehicular incidents. Repair work may take time depending on the extent and location of the damage.
The company said Fiber Always On addresses one of the most common frustrations among internet users by enabling customers to continue working, attending online classes, streaming content, gaming and managing connected devices with minimal disruption.
The modem is also designed to automatically generate a service repair ticket within 15 minutes of downtime, helping speed up issue resolution while keeping customers connected through LTE backup.
Digital necessity
PLDT Home said uninterrupted internet access has become increasingly important as more households embrace digital lifestyles.
The need is especially evident in homes where multiple users simultaneously work, study, stream content, play online games and communicate throughout the day.
To encourage adoption, PLDT Home said customers who switch to Fiber Plan 1399 and higher plans will receive free Fiber Always On service fees for six months, free installation worth P3,600, a speed boost of up to twice their subscribed speed and access to Cignal entertainment services.
The company said the offering reflects its continued effort to provide smarter and more reliable connectivity solutions for Filipino households. —Ed: Corrie S. Narisma
