Smart Backs Active Living as Filipinos Embrace Healthier Lifestyles

From early morning jogs to weekend fun runs, more Filipinos are embracing active lifestyles as health and wellness become a growing priority in everyday life. Running, in particular, has long been a go to physical activity in the country — accessible, inclusive, and deeply rooted in community culture — making it a natural choice for individuals seeking both physical and mental well being.

This shift towards more intentional, health focused living reflects a broader movement among Filipinos to stay active, connected, and environmentally conscious; increasingly supported by organizations that recognize the role of technology, community, and sustainability in driving positive change.

“Our initiatives reflect our belief that progress must be purposeful and sustainable. As we continue to expand our 5G infrastructure and deliver world class connectivity, we are also committed to ensuring that our growth supports healthier communities and a greener planet,” said Marjorie Garrovillo, FVP and Co OIC at Smart Communications, Inc (Smart).

Smart continues to champion initiatives that promote healthier lifestyles while advancing environmental responsibility and inclusive digital progress across the country. 

Through strategic partnerships and community driven programs, Smart supports platforms that encourage physical activity, meaningful engagement, and eco conscious action. Among these initiatives are fitness and wellness platforms and events such as the GCash Run, which brought together running, digital innovation, and environmental advocacy. By supporting initiatives that integrate active living with technology enabled engagement, Smart reinforces its long standing commitment to environmental stewardship and its support for initiatives that contribute to climate resilience and the transition towards a circular economy.

Enabling healthier lifestyles through sustainable connectivity

Smart’s support for wellness led initiatives is complemented by its continued investment in next generation connectivity. The company is rapidly expanding its 5G network nationwide to build a more efficient, reliable, and future ready digital ecosystem that supports evolving lifestyle needs.

As 5G adoption accelerates across the Philippines, Smart has reported an 88% year on year increase in full 5G traffic. This growth is driven by the rising number of 5G capable devices on the network, which increased 35% year on year to reach 11.2 million units, now accounting for 19% of total handsets.

The wider availability of affordable 5G devices, combined with ongoing network optimization, is enabling more Filipinos to access faster speeds, lower latency, and more responsive digital experiences — capabilities that increasingly support health and fitness platforms, real time communication, and everyday digital activities.

Award winning network experience

Smart’s continued focus on network excellence has earned global recognition. The company was recently recognized by Ookla® for providing the Best Mobile Video Experience and Best Mobile Latency in the Philippines.

Based on Speedtest Intelligence® data, Smart achieved a Video Score of 78.60, allowing subscribers to enjoy seamless 1080p streaming and near instant playback. The Best Mobile Latency award underscores the network’s responsiveness, which is a critical advantage for real time applications such as streaming, gaming, video conferencing, and digital tools that support active and connected lifestyles.

As Filipinos continue to prioritize health, movement, and sustainability, Smart remains committed to enabling progress that goes beyond connectivity by empowering communities to live better today while helping build a more resilient and sustainable tomorrow.