PLDT targets overseas MVNO ventures to serve ex-pats

Philippine Long Distance Telephone (PLDT) is considering the launch of mobile virtual network operator (MVNO) businesses in a number of foreign markets to provide mobile services for the Filipino workers living there. PLDT Global CEO and president Alex Caeg is quoted as saying that MVNO launches, which will be offered under the brand name ‘Smart 158’, will take place very soon in countries where the number of ex-pats is high, such as Macau, Taiwan, Guam, Malaysia, the US and Saudi Arabia. Furthermore, the Philippines-based telco is also looking to increase its MVNO subscriber bases in Singapore and Hong Kong by launching a range of new products and services, including mobile remittance, broadband TV, and by reselling PLDT and Smart services.