A joint operation conducted by PLDT Inc. and the Makati City Police led to the arrest of six individuals caught trying to steal nearly two tons of underground copper cables along Kalayaan Avenue in Barangay Olympia.
The group, posing as water utility workers, had set up fake signage, donned contractor uniforms and used professional tools. One of the suspects was found inside a manhole during the operation, as the group tried to pull out nearly two tons of PLDT copper cables.
Cable theft accounts for a significant portion of connectivity issues for Philippine telcos. Recovered from the scene were bolt cutters, metal saws, warning devices and 96 meters of cut PLDT copper cables, weighing about 2,000 kilograms. The arrested individuals were immediately brought to the Makati Police Station for inquest proceedings, with support from PLDT’s GMM South Asset Protection Division.
“This incident underscores the importance of collaboration between the public and private sectors in protecting critical infrastructure,” said Willie Antalan, head of PLDT’s Asset Protection Division for Greater Metro Manila South.
“We remain steadfast in our mission to ensure uninterrupted service and community safety through sustained vigilance and partnership,” he said.
The operation is part of PLDT’s broader proactive initiatives to safeguard the company’s nationwide network infrastructure through close coordination with local government units, police and other industry stakeholders.
Through its network protection and community security initiatives, the PLDT group is helping create safer, more resilient communities where digital inclusion can thrive, through a community-centric approach that strengthens trust, fosters accountability and ensures that technology continues to serve as a bridge to progress for millions of Filipinos.
