Smart expands free WiFi in LRT-1

Smart Communications Inc., the mobile unit of Pangilinan-led PLDT Inc., has widened the coverage of its free WiFi to five more stations of the Light Rail Transit Line 1 (LRT-1).

In an emailed statement, Smart said it has expanded the coverage of its free WiFi service to include the stations of Abad Santos, Pedro Gil, Gil Puyat, UN Avenue, and R. Papa.

The free WiFi service of Smart was first made available at the LRT 1's Doroteo Jose station in February, and was recently expanded to include all 13 stations of the Metro Rail Transit Line 3 (MRT).

Under the service, commuters will be able to avail of 30 minutes of free internet per day.

However, subscribers will have to pay after the 30-minute free session — they may either purchase WiFi loads from partner retailers, or convert their regular loads to wifi minutes.

Moving forward, Smart said it plans to offer free WiFi in all LRT-1 stations, and on all the corresponding street level stretch by the end of the year.

"These are all aligned with our efforts to improve the commuting experience in the Metro," Juan Victor Hernandez, PLDT Smart senior vice president and head of enterprise, said.

For its part, Ayala-led Globe Telecom Inc. already started to offer its free WiFi service in all LRT stations in 2016. — RSJ/KVD, GMA News