MANILA – PLDT Inc said Thursday it tapped global firm Cisco to develop 5G-ready transport network infrastructure, broadening its partnerships in rolling out the next generation connectivity standard.

Cisco will build the 5G transport network using PLDT's existing fiber facilities, company officials said during an event that launched the partnership.

PLDT earlier tapped Nokia and Huawei for its 5G push.

"The investment will raise PLDT's fiber network to the next level... Were happy to really take this step in modernizing the transport infrastructure," PLDT Chairman Manuel V. Pangilinan said.

The project will take 3 years to complete, said Cisco chairman and CEO Chuck Robbins.

An improved fiber network will help promote efficiency in various industries including education, mining, electric and water distribution as well as growth in small and medium enterprises, Robbins said.

Cisco and PLDT will build a "new super highway" with ultra high-speed connectivity, said Joachim Horn, chief technology and information adviser for PLDT and its mobile unit Smart .

A new level of cybersecurity will be built and the project will also also improve 4G speed, coverage and capabilities, Horn said.