PLDT Plans P24.2 Billion Data Center REIT Listing to Slash Debt

Key Facts

In a strategic move reflecting the global trend of telecommunications firms monetizing non-core infrastructure, PLDT Inc. is planning a P24.2-billion digital infrastructure real estate investment trust (REIT) listing. According to reports, the company intends to transition its data center business into this publicly listed vehicle. CreditSights expects the proceeds from the listing to significantly reduce PLDT’s substantial net debt, which currently stands at P284.7 billion.

This initiative arrives as the Southeast Asian data center market experiences rapid expansion, with regional players increasingly competing against global giants like Equinix. Locally, PLDT's move mirrors similar balance sheet optimization strategies seen by peers such as Globe Telecom, which previously executed multi-billion dollar tower leaseback deals. Per market data, successful deleveraging through this REIT could improve PLDT's credit profile amid a challenging global interest rate environment.

Traders should monitor the regulatory progress of this listing as a primary catalyst for the stock's valuation and credit rating. Notably, the Philippine central bank set interest rates at 4.75% on June 18, 2026, underscoring the urgency for high-leverage firms to reduce debt. Future updates regarding the IPO timeline and asset valuation will be critical markers for investor sentiment in the coming months.