PLDT, Smart physical, online stores to stay open

PLDT Inc. and Smart said physical stores and online channels would remain open to customers despite the sharp increase in COVID-19 cases.

The assurance came as the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF) raised the alert level in Metro Manila and nearby provinces.

“Mall-based and non-mall-based hubs in areas under alert level 3 can still cater to customers according to their regular operating hours, following the customer capacity set by the government,” PLDT said in the statement.

“Store front-liners are also fully vaccinated. They are also equipped with face masks, face shields, hospital-grade air filters and sanitizing agents to prevent the spread of the virus,” it added.

Customers can schedule appointments for store visits via bit.ly/pldtssc for PLDT subscribers and smrt.ph/bookanapp for Smart customers.

Over 230,000 customers have made appointments via the booking platform in 2021, PLDT said.

The group also offers options for online transactions.

New accounts can be opened via pldthome.com and customers will also be given the ability to track their applications.

They can also buy load and devices through PLDT and Smart’s official websites or third-party platforms such as PayMaya, Lazada, Grab and Shopee; or through official distributors via Facebook Marketplace.

Moreover, subscribers can manage their accounts using Smart’s GigaLife app. Over 3.7 million PLDT and Smart customers have shifted to paperless billing as of November 2021, PLDT said.

PLDT and Smart customers can also pay their bills via PayMaya, Lazada and Shopee, or through online banking.

“We are fully prepared to serve our customers amid mobility restrictions. Our customers can be reassured that we can address their inquiries offline and online through our physical stores, virtual booking sites, official social media accounts and other channels,” Alfredo Panlilio, PLDT and Smart president and CEO, said in the statement.

—Miguel R. Camus