Smart Communications Inc. (Smart), the wireless unit of PLDT Inc. (PLDT), is turning up the speed on its 5G rollout with a landmark P2- billion green loan — its first-ever — to further expand its network.

Issued by Metropolitan Bank & Trust Company (Metrobank), Smart said Thursday the green loan will fund upgrades and expansion of Smart’s network infrastructure to improve energy efficiency and customer experience.

Compared with 4G/LTE, 5G networks carry more data faster, consume less energy per gigabyte, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

‘More than a financial milestone’

“This green loan is more than a financial milestone — it demonstrates Smart’s participation in shaping a low-carbon digital future,” PLDT and Smart chief financial officer and chief risk management officer Danny Y. Yu said.

“By investing in energy-efficient technologies, we are pursuing business growth and efficiency, while being mindful of our impact to the environment,” he added.

According to PLDT and Smart chief sustainability officer Melissa Vergel de Dios, the financing also advances the company’s focus on innovation, customer experience and operational efficiency.

She said the loan plays a key role in achieving both business and sustainability goals, contributing to long-term growth and value for the planet.

‘Smart, greener, digital future’

Metrobank Corporate Banking Group head Rommel Dionisio pointed out that the funding supports energy-efficient 5G upgrades and helps build “a smarter, greener digital future together.”

Smart has been investing in green technologies such as renewable energy sources and an AI-enabled green radio solution for its wireless network sites.

Last year, PLDT also secured a P4- billion green loan from Metrobank for fiber infrastructure expansion and energy-efficient systems.