EX-99 2 exhibit1.htm EX-99 Exhibit  EX-99
     
SEC Number
  PW-55
 
   
File Number
 


PLDT INC.
________________________________________________
(Company’s Full Name)

Ramon Cojuangco Building
Makati Avenue, Makati City

_________________________________________________
(Company’s Address)

(632) 816-8556
______________________________________
(Telephone Number)

Not Applicable
______________________________________
(Fiscal Year Ending)
(month & day)

SEC Form 17-Q
______________________________________
Form Type

Not Applicable
______________________________________
Amendment Designation (if applicable)

September 30, 2016
______________________________________
Period Ended Date

Not Applicable
__________________________________________________
(Secondary License Type and File Number)

1

November 14, 2016

Securities & Exchange Commission
SEC Building, EDSA
Mandaluyong City

Attention: Mr. Vicente Graciano P. Felizmenio, Jr.

Director – Markets and Securities Regulations Dept.

Gentlemen:

In accordance with Section 17.1(b) of the Securities Regulation Code and SRC Rule 17.1.1.1.2, we submit herewith two (2) copies of SEC Form 17-Q with Management’s Discussion and Analysis and accompanying unaudited consolidated financial statements for the nine (9) months ended September 30, 2016.

 
Very truly yours,
/s/ Ma. Lourdes C. Rausa-Chan
MA. LOURDES C. RAUSA-CHAN
Corporate Secretary

2

COVER SHEET

                                 
SEC Registration Number        
P      
W
          5       5  
       
 
                       

Company Name

                                                                                                                                                                                                         
P   L   D   T           I   N   C   .                                                                                                                                        
(F
    O       R       M       E       R       L       Y             P         H       I       L       I     P       P         I       N       E               L       O       N       G                  
 
                                                                                                                                                                                                       
D
    I       S       T       A       N       C       E               T       E       L       E     P         H       O       N       E               C       O       M     P         A       N       Y )
 
                                                                                                                                                                                                       

Principal Office (No./Street/Barangay/City/Town/Province)

                                                                                                 
R   A   M   O   N       C   O   J   U   A   N   G   C   O       B   U   I   L   D   I   N   G    
M
  A   K   A   T   I       A   V   E   N   U   E       M   A   K   A   T   I       C   I   T   Y
 
                                                                                               
                                                 
    Form Type       Department requiring the report       Secondary License
 
                                              Type, If Applicable
 
    1       7     -   Q       M   S   R   D  
 
                                             

COMPANY INFORMATION

         
Company’s Email Address
  Company’s Telephone Number/s   Mobile Number
 
       
jacabal@pldt.com.ph
  (02) 816-8534  
 
     
         
No. of Stockholders  
Annual Meeting
Month/Day
  Fiscal Year
Month/Day
   
 
   
11,781
as at September 30, 2016
 

Every 2nd Tuesday in June
 
December 31
   
 
   

CONTACT PERSON INFORMATION
The designated contact person MUST be an Officer of the Corporation

             
Name of Contact Person
  Email Address   Telephone Number/s   Mobile Number
 
           
June Cheryl A. Cabal-Revilla
  jacabal@pldt.com.ph   (02) 816-8534  
 
         
 
Contact Person’s Address
11/F Ramon Cojuangco Bldg. Makati Ave., Makati City
 

Note: In case of death, resignation or cessation of office of the officer designated as contact person, such incident shall be reported to the Commission within thirty (30) calendar days from the occurrence thereof with information and complete contact details of the new contact person designated.

3

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

SEC FORM 17-Q

QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 17
OF THE SECURITIES REGULATION CODE (“SRC”) AND
SRC 17 (2) (b) THEREUNDER

1. For the quarterly period ended September 30, 2016

2. SEC Identification Number PW-55 3. BIR Tax Identification No. 000-488-793

4. PLDT Inc.

Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter

5. Republic of the Philippines

Province, country or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization

                 
  6.    
Industry Classification Code:(SEC Use Only)
 
  7.    
Ramon Cojuangco Building, Makati Avenue, Makati City
    0721  
       
 
       
       
Address of registrant’s principal office
  Postal Code

8. (632) 816-8556

Registrant’s telephone number, including area code

9. Not Applicable

Former name, former address, and former fiscal year, if changed since last report

10. Securities registered pursuant to Sections 8 of the SRC

     
Title of Each ClassNumber of Shares of Common Stock Outstanding
Common Capital Stock, Php5 par value
  216,055,775 shares as at September 30, 2016

11. Are any or all of these securities listed on the Philippine Stock Exchange?

Yes [ X ] No [ ]

12. Check whether the registrant

  (a)   has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 17 of the SRC during the preceding ten months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports):  

Yes [ X ] No [ ]

(b) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.

         
Yes [ X ]No [ ]
 

4

         
TABLE OF CONTENTS
 
PART I FINANCIAL INFORMATION
    1  

  Item 1.   Consolidated Financial Statements 1

  Item 2.   Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial

         
Condition and Results of Operations
    1  
Financial Highlights and Key Performance Indicators
    2  
Performance Indicators
    3  
Overview
    4  
Management’s Financial Review
    5  
Results of Operations
    6  
Wireless
    9  
Revenues
    9  
Expenses
    17  
Other Income (Expenses)
    19  
Provision for Income Tax
    19  
Net Income
    19  
EBITDA
    19  
Core Income
    19  
Fixed Line
    19  
Revenues
    19  
Expenses
    23  
Other Income (Expenses)
    24  
Provision for Income Tax
    25  
Net Income
    25  
EBITDA
    25  
Core Income
    25  
Others
    25  
Expenses
    25  
Other Income
    25  
Net Income
    26  
Core Income
    26  
Liquidity and Capital Resources
    26  
Operating Activities
    27  
Investing Activities
    27  
Financing Activities
    28  
Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements
    29  
Equity Financing
    29  
Contractual Obligations and Commercial Commitments
    31  
Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risks
    31  
Impact of Inflation and Changing Prices
    32  
PART II – OTHER INFORMATION
    32  
Related Party Transactions
    37  
ANNEX – Aging of Accounts Receivable
    A-1  
Financial Soundness Indicators
    A-2  
SIGNATURES
    S-1  

PART I – FINANCIAL INFORMATION

Item 1.   Consolidated Financial Statements

Our consolidated financial statements as at September 30, 2016 (unaudited) and December 31, 2015 (audited) and for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015 (unaudited) and related notes (pages F-1 to F-148) are filed as part of this report on Form 17-Q.

Item 2.   Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

In the following discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations, unless the context indicates or otherwise requires, references to “we,” “us,” “our” or “PLDT Group” mean PLDT Inc. and its consolidated subsidiaries, and references to “PLDT” mean PLDT Inc., not including its consolidated subsidiaries (please see Note 2 – Summary of Significant Accounting Policies to the accompanying unaudited consolidated financial statements for the list of these subsidiaries, including a description of their respective principal business activities and PLDT’s direct and/or indirect equity interest).

The following discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations should be read in conjunction with the accompanying unaudited consolidated financial statements and the related notes. Our unaudited consolidated financial statements, and the financial information discussed below, have been prepared in accordance with Philippine Financial Reporting Standards, or PFRS, which is virtually converged with International Financial Reporting Standards as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board. PFRS differs in certain significant respects from generally accepted accounting principles, or GAAP, in the U.S.

The financial information appearing in this report and in the accompanying unaudited consolidated financial statements is stated in Philippine pesos. All references to “Philippine pesos,” “Php” or “pesos” are to the lawful currency of the Philippines; all references to “U.S. dollars,” “US$” or “dollars” are to the lawful currency of the United States; all references to “Japanese yen,” “JP¥” or “yen” are to the lawful currency of Japan and all references to “Euro” or “” are to the lawful currency of the European Union. Unless otherwise indicated, translations of Philippine peso amounts into U.S. dollars in this report and in the accompanying unaudited consolidated financial statements were made based on the exchange rate of Php48.48 to US$1.00, the exchange rate as at September 30, 2016 quoted through the Philippine Dealing System.

Some information in this report may contain forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the U.S. Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. We have based these forward-looking statements on our current beliefs, expectations and intentions as to facts, actions and events that will or may occur in the future. Such statements generally are identified by forward-looking words such as “believe,” “plan,” “anticipate,” “continue,” “estimate,” “expect,” “may,” “will” or other similar words.

A forward-looking statement may include a statement of the assumptions or bases underlying the forward-looking statement. We have chosen these assumptions or bases in good faith, and we believe that they are reasonable in all material respects. However, we caution you that forward-looking statements and assumed facts or bases almost always vary from actual results, and the differences between the results implied by the forward-looking statements and assumed facts or bases and actual results can be material, depending on the circumstances. When considering forward-looking statements, you should keep in mind the description of risks and cautionary statements in this report. You should also keep in mind that any forward-looking statement made by us in this report or elsewhere speaks only as at the date on which we made it. New risks and uncertainties come up from time to time, and it is impossible for us to predict these events or how they may affect us. We have no duty to, and do not intend to, update or revise the forward-looking statements in this report after the date hereof. In light of these risks and uncertainties, actual results may differ materially from any forward-looking statement made in this report or elsewhere might not occur.
Financial Highlights and Key Performance Indicators

                                 
    Nine months ended September 30,   Increase (Decrease)
    2016   2015   Amount   %
(in millions, except for EBITDA margin, earnings per common share, net debt to
                               
equity ratio and operational data)   (Unaudited)                
Consolidated Income Statement
                               
Revenues
    125,386       127,871       (2,485 )     (2 )
Expenses
    108,474       95,797       12,677       13  
Other income
    5,248       619       4,629       748  
Income before income tax
    22,160       32,693       (10,533 )     (32 )
Net income for the period
    15,900       25,355       (9,455 )     (37 )
Core income
    21,736       27,077       (5,341 )     (20 )
EBITDA
    45,717       54,066       (8,349 )     (15 )
EBITDA margin(1)
    38 %     44 %            
Reported earnings per common share:
                               
Basic
    73.22       117.07       (43.85 )     (37 )
Diluted
    73.22       117.07       (43.85 )     (37 )
Core earnings per common share(2):
                               
Basic
    100.42       125.11       (24.69 )     (20 )
Diluted
    100.42       125.11       (24.69 )     (20 )
                                         
    September 30,           December 31,   Increase (Decrease)
    2016   2015   Amount   %
    (Unaudited)           (Audited)                
Consolidated Statements of Financial Position
                                       
Total assets
    452,943               455,095       (2,152 )      
Property and equipment
    198,495               195,782       2,713       1  
Cash and cash equivalents and short-term investments
    28,065               47,884       (19,819 )     (41 )
Total equity attributable to equity holders of PLDT
    104,531               113,608       (9,077 )     (8 )
Long-term debt, including current portion
    160,881               160,892       (11 )      
Net debt(3) to equity ratio
    1.27x               0.99x              
                                 
    Nine months ended September 30,   Increase (Decrease)
    2016   2015   Amount   %
    (Unaudited)                
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
                               
Net cash provided by operating activities
    33,277       47,796       (14,519 )     (30 )
Net cash used in investing activities
    (17,673 )     (18,451 )      778       (4 )
Capital expenditures
    26,131       23,297       2,834       12  
Net cash used in financing activities
    (35,947 )     (22,596 )     (13,351 )     59  
Operational Data
                               
Number of cellular subscribers
    61,810,521       67,002,843       (5,192,322 )     (8 )
Number of fixed line subscribers
    2,404,893       2,285,952       118,941       5  
Number of broadband subscribers:
    5,244,275       5,014,389       229,886       5  
Fixed Line
    1,407,122       1,224,735       182,387       15  
Wireless
    3,837,153       3,789,654       47,499       1  
Number of employees:
    17,808       17,133       675       4  
Fixed Line
    10,462       9,523       939       10  
LEC
    7,152       6,966       186       3  
Others
    3,310       2,557       753       29  
Wireless
    7,346       7,610       (264 )     (3 )
 
                               

    (1) EBITDA margin for the period is measured as EBITDA divided by service revenues.

    (2) Core earnings per common share, or EPS, for the period is measured as core income divided by the weighted average number of outstanding common shares for the period.

    (3) Net debt is derived by deducting cash and cash equivalents and short-term investments from total debt (long-term debt, including current portion and notes payable).

                         
                Weighted average rates
Exchange Rates – per US$   Month end rates   during the period
September 30, 2016
        48.48           46.95  
December 31, 2015
        47.12           45.51  
September 30, 2015
        46.83           45.07  
December 31, 2014
        44.74           44.40  
 
                       

Performance Indicators

We use a number of non-GAAP performance indicators to monitor financial performance. These are summarized below and discussed later in this report.

EBITDA

EBITDA for the period is measured as net income excluding depreciation and amortization, amortization of intangible assets, asset impairment on noncurrent assets, financing costs, interest income, equity share in net earnings (losses) of associates and joint ventures, foreign exchange gains (losses) – net, gains (losses) on derivative financial instruments – net, provision for (benefit from) income tax and other income – net. EBITDA is monitored by management for each business unit separately for purposes of making decisions about resource allocation and performance assessment. EBITDA is presented also as a supplemental disclosure because our management believes that it is widely used by investors in their analysis of the performance of PLDT and to assist them in their comparison of PLDT’s performance with that of other companies in the technology, media and telecommunications sector. We also present EBITDA because it is used by some investors as a way to measure a company’s ability to incur and service debt, make capital expenditures and meet working capital requirements. Companies in the technology, media and telecommunications sector have historically reported EBITDA as a supplement to financial measures in accordance with PFRS. EBITDA should not be considered as an alternative to net income as an indicator of our performance, as an alternative to cash flows from operating activities, as a measure of liquidity or as an alternative to any other measure determined in accordance with PFRS. Unlike net income, EBITDA does not include depreciation and amortization, and financing costs and, therefore, does not reflect current or future capital expenditures or the cost of capital. We compensate for these limitations by using EBITDA as only one of several comparative tools, together with PFRS-based measurements, to assist in the evaluation of operating performance. Such PFRS-based measurements include income before income tax, net income, cash flows from operations and cash flow data. We have significant uses of cash flows, including capital expenditures, interest payments, debt principal repayments, taxes and other non-recurring charges, which are not reflected in EBITDA. Our calculation of EBITDA may be different from the calculation methods used by other companies and, therefore, comparability may be limited.

Core Income

Core income for the period is measured as net income attributable to equity holders of PLDT (net income less net income attributable to noncontrolling interests), excluding foreign exchange gains (losses) – net, gains (losses) on derivative financial instruments – net (excluding hedge costs), asset impairment on noncurrent assets, other non-recurring gains (losses), net of tax effect of aforementioned adjustments, as applicable, and similar adjustments to equity share in net earnings (losses) of associates and joint ventures. The core income results are monitored by management for each business unit separately for purposes of making decisions about resource allocation and performance assessment. Also, core income is used by management as a basis of determining the level of dividend payouts to shareholders and basis of granting incentives to employees. Core income should not be considered as an alternative to income before income tax or net income determined in accordance with PFRS as an indicator of our performance. Unlike income before income tax, core income does not include foreign exchange gains and losses, gains and losses on derivative financial instruments, asset impairments and other non-recurring gains and losses. We compensate for these limitations by using core income as only one of several comparative tools, together with PFRS-based measurements, to assist in the evaluation of operating performance. Such PFRS-based measurements include income before income tax and net income. Our calculation of core income may be different from the calculation methods used by other companies and, therefore, comparability may be limited.
Overview

We are the largest and most diversified telecommunications company in the Philippines which delivers data and multi-media services in the Philippines. We have organized our business into business units based on our products and services and have three reportable operating segments which serve as the bases for management’s decision to allocate resources and evaluate operating performance:

Wireless wireless telecommunications services provided by Smart Communications, Inc., or Smart, and Digital Mobile Philippines, Inc., or DMPI, which owns the Sun Cellular business and is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Digital Telecommunications Philippines, Inc., or Digitel, our cellular service providers; Voyager Innovations, Inc., or Voyager, and certain subsidiaries, our mobile applications and digital platforms developers and mobile financial services provider; Smart Broadband, Inc., or SBI, and subsidiary and Primeworld Digital Systems, Inc., or PDSI, our wireless broadband service providers; ACeS Philippines Cellular Satellite Corporation, or ACeS Philippines, our satellite information and messaging services provider; WiFun, Inc., our WiFi-enabler; and certain subsidiaries of PLDT Global Corporation, or PLDT Global, our mobile virtual network operations, or MVNO, provider;

Fixed Line fixed line telecommunications services primarily provided by PLDT. We also provide fixed line services through PLDT’s subsidiaries, namely, PLDT Clark Telecom, Inc., PLDT Subic Telecom, Inc., PLDT-Philcom, Inc. or Philcom, and its subsidiaries, or Philcom Group, PLDT-Maratel, Inc., SBI, PDSI, Bonifacio Communications Corporation, PLDT Global and certain subsidiaries and Digitel, all of which together account for approximately 3% of our consolidated fixed line subscribers; data center, cloud, big data, managed ICT services and resellership provided by ePLDT, Inc., or ePLDT, IP Converge Data Services, Inc., or IPCDSI, and subsidiary, or IPCDSI Group, ABM Global Solutions, Inc., or AGS, and its subsidiaries, or AGS Group, Curo Teknika, Inc. and ePDS, Inc., or ePDS; business infrastructure and solutions, intelligent data processing and implementation services and data analytics insight generation provided by Talas Data Intelligence, Inc., or Talas; distribution of Filipino channels and content by Pilipinas Global Network Limited and its subsidiaries; and

Others PLDT Communications and Energy Ventures, Inc., or PCEV, PLDT Global Investment Holdings, Inc., Mabuhay Investments Corporation, PLDT Global Investments Corporation, PLDT Digital Investments Pte. Ltd., or PLDT Digital, and its subsidiary, our investment companies.

As at September 30, 2016, our chief operating decision maker, or our Management Committee, views our business activities in three business units: Wireless, Fixed Line and Others.

On June 13, 2016, we unveiled the new PLDT and Smart logos which are shaped like a triangle and embody what we value most: our Customers, our People and Innovation. The logos represent our thrust to decisively shift our businesses toward data-driven services, in line with our digital pivot which aims to transform our organization, processes and networks into the most data-capable infrastructure, and reflective of our desire to bring relevant innovations to empower our customers who are increasingly embracing digital services into their daily lives. These symbolize the start of a new journey: #ANewDay to create a better tomorrow for Filipino consumers. With practical innovations that focus on our consumers’ needs, coupled with human-centered services, we aspire to empower Filipinos to enjoy a digital-centered life without barriers.

Management’s Financial Review

In addition to consolidated net income, we use EBITDA and core income to assess our operating performance. The reconciliation of our consolidated EBITDA and our consolidated core income to our consolidated net income for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015 are set forth below.

The following table shows the reconciliation of our consolidated EBITDA to our consolidated net income for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015:

                 
    2016   2015
    (in millions)
Consolidated EBITDA
    45,717       54,066  
Add (deduct) adjustments:
               
Depreciation and amortization
    (22,603 )     (21,187 )
Provision for income tax
    (6,260 )     (7,338 )
Financing costs – net
    (5,430 )     (4,550 )
Asset impairment
    (5,381 )      
Foreign exchange losses – net
    (1,434 )     (2,523 )
Amortization of intangible assets
    (821 )     (805 )
Gains on derivative financial instruments – net
    511       447  
Interest income
    743       590  
Equity share in net earnings of associates and joint ventures
    1,477       2,668  
Other income – net
    9,381       3,987  
Total adjustments
    (29,817 )     (28,711 )
Consolidated net income
    15,900       25,355  
 
               

The following table shows the reconciliation of our consolidated core income to our consolidated net income for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015:

                 
    2016   2015
    (in millions)
Consolidated core income
    21,736       27,077  
 
               
Add (deduct) adjustments:
               
Asset impairment
    (5,381 )      
Foreign exchange losses – net
    (1,434 )     (2,523 )
Core adjustment on equity share in net gains (losses) of associates and joint ventures
    25       (87 )
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests
    35       16  
Gains on derivative financial instruments – net, excluding hedge costs
    916       687  
Net tax effect of aforementioned adjustments
    3       185  
Total adjustments
    (5,836 )     (1,722 )
Consolidated net income
    15,900       25,355  
 
               

5

Results of Operations

The table below shows the contribution by each of our business segments to our consolidated revenues, expenses, other income (expenses), income before income tax, provision for income tax, net income/segment profit, EBITDA, EBITDA margin and core income for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015. In each of the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015, we generated majority of our revenues from operations within the Philippines.

                                         
                            Inter-segment    
    Wireless   Fixed Line   Others   Transactions   Consolidated
            (in millions)        
For the nine months ended September 30, 2016
                                       
Revenues
    80,557       54,071             (9,242 )     125,386  
Expenses
    69,519       43,912       5,406       (10,363 )     108,474  
Other income (expenses)
    (1,618 )     (861 )     8,848       (1,121 )     5,248  
Income before income tax
    9,420       9,298       3,442             22,160  
Provision for income tax
    3,486       2,681       93             6,260  
Net income/Segment profit
    5,934       6,617       3,349             15,900  
EBITDA
    24,309       20,312       (25 )     1,121       45,717  
EBITDA margin(1)
    32 %     40 %                 38 %
Core income
    6,302       6,353       9,081             21,736  
For the nine months ended September 30, 2015
                                       
Revenues
    86,755       50,922             (9,806 )     127,871  
Expenses
    63,888       42,657       52       (10,800 )     95,797  
Other income (expenses)
    (1,792 )     (1,934 )     5,339       (994 )     619  
Income before income tax
    21,075       6,331       5,287             32,693  
Provision for income tax
    5,253       1,965       120             7,338  
Net income/Segment profit
    15,822       4,366       5,167             25,355  
EBITDA
    35,196       17,928       (52 )     994       54,066  
EBITDA margin(1)
    42 %     37 %                 44 %
Core income
    16,835       4,582       5,660             27,077  
Increase (Decrease)
                                       
Revenues
    (6,198 )     3,149             564       (2,485 )
Expenses
    5,631       1,255       5,354       437       12,677  
Other income (expenses)
    174       1,073       3,509       (127 )     4,629  
Income before income tax
    (11,655 )     2,967       (1,845 )           (10,533 )
Provision for income tax
    (1,767 )     716       (27 )           (1,078 )
Net income/Segment profit
    (9,888 )     2,251       (1,818 )           (9,455 )
EBITDA
    (10,887 )     2,384       27       127       (8,349 )
Core income
    (10,533 )     1,771       3,421             (5,341 )
 
                                       

(1) EBITDA margin for the year is measured as EBITDA divided by service revenues.

On a Consolidated Basis

Revenues

We reported consolidated revenues of Php125,386 million in the first nine months of 2016, a decrease of Php2,485 million, or 2%, as compared with Php127,871 million in the same period in 2015, primarily due to lower revenues from cellular business and digital platforms and mobile financial services as a result of the deconsolidation of ePay Investments Pte. Ltd., or ePay, for the period February to July 2016 and lower revenues from international and national long distance services from our fixed line business, partially offset by higher revenues from data and other network, local exchange and miscellaneous services from our fixed line business, higher wireless broadband revenues, and an increase in our non-service revenues.

The following table shows the breakdown of our consolidated revenues by business segment for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015:

                                                 
                                    Change
    2016   %   2015   %   Amount   %
                    (in millions)                
Wireless
    80,557       64       86,755       68       (6,198 )     (7 )
Fixed line
    54,071       43       50,922       40       3,149       6  
Inter-segment transactions
    (9,242 )     (7 )     (9,806 )     (8 )     564       (6 )
 
                                               
Consolidated
    125,386       100       127,871       100       (2,485 )     (2 )
 
                                               

Expenses

Consolidated expenses increased by Php12,677 million, or 13%, to Php108,474 million in the first nine months of 2016 from Php95,797 million in the same period in 2015, as a result of higher expenses related to asset impairment, cost of sales, depreciation and amortization, and operating expenses related to professional and other contracted services, rent, taxes and licenses, and repairs and maintenance, partially offset by lower expenses related to compensation and employee benefits, selling and promotions, and other operating expenses, as well as lower interconnection costs.

The following table shows the breakdown of our consolidated expenses by business segment for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015:

                                                         
                                            Change
    2016   %   2015           %   Amount   %
                    (in millions)                
Wireless
    69,519       64       63,888               67       5,631       9  
Fixed line
    43,912       41       42,657       ,776       44       1,255       3  
Others
    5,406       5       52                     5,354       10,296  
Inter-segment transactions
    (10,363 )     (10 )     (10,800 )             (11 )     437       (4 )
 
                                                       
Consolidated
    108,474       100       95,797               100       12,677       13  
 
                                                       

Other Income (Expenses)

Consolidated other income amounted to Php5,248 million in the first nine months of 2016, an increase of Php4,629 million from Php619 million in the same period in 2015, primarily due to the combined effects of the following: (i) an increase in other income by Php5,394 million due to the higher gain on sale of Beacon Electric Asset Holdings, Inc., or Beacon, shares by PCEV in 2016 as compared with the gain on sale of Meralco shares by Beacon in 2015 and a higher gain on sale of property; (ii) lower foreign exchange losses by Php 1,089 million on account of revaluation of net foreign currency-denominated liabilities due to the lower depreciation of the Philippine peso relative to the U.S. dollar to Php48.48 as at September 30, 2016 from Php47.12 as at December 31, 2015 as against the depreciation of the Philippine peso relative to the U.S. dollar to Php46.83 as at September 30, 2015 from Php44.74 as at December 31, 2014; (iii) higher interest income by Php153 million due to higher weighted average interest rate and the depreciation of the Philippine peso relative to the U.S. dollar in the first nine months of 2016, partly offset by the decrease in principal amount of temporary cash investments; (iv) higher gain on derivative financial instruments by Php64 million on account of mark-to-market gains on forward purchase contracts due to the depreciation of the Philippine peso relative to the U.S. dollar, partly offset by narrower dollar and peso interest rate differentials in the first nine months of 2016; (v) higher net financing costs by Php880 million due to higher outstanding loan balance, higher weighted average interest rate, higher financing charges and the depreciation of the Philippine peso relative to the U.S. dollar in the first nine months of 2016, partly offset by higher capitalized interest; and (vi) a decrease in equity share in net earnings of associates by Php1,191 million due to lower share in net earnings of Beacon, equity share in the net losses of Vega Telecom, Inc., or VTI, Philippines Internet Holding S.à.r.l., or PHIH, and ECommerce Pay Holding S.à r.l., or ECommerce Pay, and higher share in net losses of AF Payments, Inc., or AFPI, for the nine months ended September 30, 2016, partly offset by higher share in net earnings of Asia Outsourcing Beta Limited, or Beta, and Hastings Holdings, Inc., or Hastings.

The following table shows the breakdown of our consolidated other income (expenses) by business segment for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015:

                                 
                    Change
    2016   2015   Amount   %
            (in millions)        
Wireless
    (1,618 )     (1,792 )     174       (10 )
Fixed line
    (861 )     (1,934 )     1,073       (55 )
Others
    8,848       5,339       3,509       66  
Inter-segment transactions
    (1,121 )     (994 )     (127 )     13  
 
                               
Consolidated
    5,248       619       4,629       748  
 
                               

Net Income

Consolidated net income decreased by Php9,455 million, or 37%, to Php15,900 million in the first nine months of 2016, from Php25,355 million in the same period in 2015. The decrease was mainly due to the combined effects of the following: (i) an increase in consolidated expenses by Php12,677 million; (ii) a decrease in consolidated revenues by Php2,485 million; (iii) an increase in consolidated other income – net by Php4,629 million; and (iv) a decrease in consolidated provision for income tax by Php1,078 million. Our consolidated basic and diluted EPS decreased to Php73.22 in the first nine months of 2016 from consolidated basic and diluted EPS of Php117.07 in the same period in 2015. Our weighted average number of outstanding common shares was approximately 216.06 million in each of the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015.

The following table shows the breakdown of our consolidated net income by business segment for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015:

                                                 
                                    Change
    2016   %   2015   %   Amount   %
                    (in millions)                
Wireless
    5,934       37       15,822       63       (9,888 )     (62 )
Fixed line
    6,617       42       4,366       17       2,251       52  
Others
    3,349       21       5,167       20       (1,818 )     (35 )
Consolidated
    15,900       100       25,355       100       (9,455 )     (37 )
 
                                               

EBITDA

Our consolidated EBITDA amounted to Php45,717 million in the first nine months of 2016, a decrease of Php8,349 million, or 15%, as compared with Php54,066 million in the same period in 2015, primarily due to lower consolidated revenues, higher provisions for doubtful accounts and inventory obsolescence, as well as an increase in cost of sales, partially offset by lower consolidated cash operating expenses mainly driven by compensation and employee benefits, selling and promotions, and interconnection costs.

The following table shows the breakdown of our consolidated EBITDA by business segment for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015:

                                                                 
                                            Change
    2016   %   2015   %           Amount           %
                    (in millions)                        
Wireless
    24,309       53       35,196       65               (10,887 )             (31 )
Fixed line
    20,312       44       17,928       33               2,384               13  
Others
    (25 )           (52 )                   27               (52 )
Inter-segment transactions
    1,121       3       994       2       199       127               13  
                                                     
Consolidated
    45,717       100       54,066       100               (8,349 )             (15 )
                                                     

Core Income

Our consolidated core income amounted to Php21,736 million in the first nine months of 2016, a decrease of Php5,341 million, or 20%, as compared with Php27,077 million in the same period in 2015 primarily due to higher consolidated operating expenses and lower consolidated revenues, partially offset by higher other income and lower provision for income tax. Our consolidated basic and diluted core EPS, decreased to Php100.42 in the first nine months of 2016 from Php125.11 in the same period in 2015.

The following table shows the breakdown of our consolidated core income by business segment for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015:

                                                 
                                    Change
    2016   %   2015   %   Amount   %
                    (in millions)                
Wireless
    6,302       29       16,835       62       (10,533 )     (63 )
Fixed line
    6,353       29       4,582       17       1,771       39  
Others
    9,081       42       5,660       21       3,421       60  
Consolidated
    21,736       100       27,077       100       (5,341 )     (20 )
 
                                               

On a Business Segment Basis

Wireless

Revenues

We generated revenues of Php80,557 million from our wireless business in the first nine months of 2016, a decrease of Php6,198 million, or 7%, from Php86,755 million in the same period in 2015.

The following table summarizes our total revenues from our wireless business for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015 by service:

                                                         
                                            Increase (Decrease)
    2016           %   2015   %   Amount   %
                            (in millions)        
Service Revenues:
                                                       
Cellular
    67,608               84       73,594       85       (5,986 )     (8 )
Wireless broadband and others
                                                       
Wireless broadband
    8,468               10       8,046       9       422       5  
Others
    486               1       733       1       (247 )     (34 )
Digital platforms and mobile financial services
    424               1       861       1       (437 )     (51 )
                                             
 
    76,986               96       83,234       96       (6,248 )     (8 )
Non-Service Revenues:
                                                       
Sale of cellular handsets, cellular subscriber identification module, or SIM,-packs and broadband data modems
    3,571               4       3,521       4       50       1  
                                             
Total Wireless Revenues
    80,557               100       86,755       100       (6,198 )     (7 )
                                             

Service Revenues

Our wireless service revenues in the first nine months of 2016 decreased by Php6,248 million, or 8%, to Php76,986 million as compared with Php83,234 million in the same period in 2015, mainly as a result of lower revenues from voice and text messaging services, partially offset by higher revenues from mobile internet and broadband services. As a percentage of our total wireless revenues, service revenues accounted for 96% in each of the first nine months of 2016 and 2015.

Cellular Service

Our cellular service revenues in the first nine months of 2016 amounted to Php67,608 million, a decrease of Php5,986 million, or 8%, from Php73,594 million in the same period in 2015. Cellular service revenues accounted for 88% of our wireless service revenues in each of the first nine months of 2016 and 2015.

We have focused on segmenting the market by offering sector-specific, value-driven packages for our subscribers. Our cellular services include a variety of data and multi-media services that cater to the growing use of smartphones by our subscribers, as well as voice and text services. We offer a variety of packages that include load buckets which provide a fixed number of messages, calls of preset duration and data allowance with prescribed validity. Smart and Sun Cellular also provide buckets which offer voice, text and hybrid bundles available to all networks, as well as packages with unlimited on-net voice, text, volume-based data, and combinations thereof, denominations of which depend on the duration and nature of the packages.

In order to fulfill its goal of providing its subscribers with the best digital experience, Smart committed to improving its overall customer data experience. Smart launched its network roadmap geared towards improving quality, coverage and internet speeds. The network improvement integrates and synergizes Smart and Sun Cellular networks to improve coverage and quality for subscribers of both brands. Smart was also the first to introduce Long-Term Evolution, or LTE,-Advanced in Boracay on April 13, 2016 which achieved breakthrough LTE speeds of up to 250 Mbps. The program also boosted 3G data service behind an enhanced 3G/high speed packet access, or HSPA/HSPA+ coverage and capacity.

Since July 2016, PLDT and Smart have rolled-out carrier-grade Smart WiFi in key transport hubs, identified by the Department of Transportation, in line with the PLDT Group’s commitment to make available to the public internet at world-class speeds for a seamless digital experience.  Apart from the Ninoy Aquino International Airport, the country’s biggest airport, Smart WiFi is now in key airports all over the country, including Davao City’s Francisco Bangoy International Airport, Laguindingan Airport in Misamis Oriental, Bacolod-Silay International Airport and Iloilo International Airport, Roxas Airport, Zamboanga Airport, Clark International Airport, Dumaguete-Sibulan Airport, Laoag International Airport, General Santos International Airport, Kalibo International Airport and Puerto Princesa Airport.

Smart WiFi was also installed in the sea ports of Batangas City and Calapan in Mindoro.  It is scheduled for rollout in more regional airports, sea ports, and the rail-based MRT and LRT lines 1 and 2 in Metro Manila in the coming months.

In October 2016, we have also completed our spectrum refarming in Davao which aimed to extend coverage and increase our data services in terms of speed and quality. As a result of capacity enhancements, the average download speeds of Smart’s 3G service in Metro Davao have increased nearly six times to about
6 Mbps while that of LTE has gone up more than 4.5 times to over 17 Mbps, based on internal field tests.

In conjunction with the drive to boost our 3G/LTE data services, we introduced on July 1, 2016, Giga Surf 50 with 1GB of open access data allowance plus 300 MB for access to iflix, Spinnr, YouTube, and other streaming services for Php50 valid for three days. This promo is open to Smart Postpaid, Smart Prepaid, Smart Bro Postpaid and Smart Bro Prepaid subscribers and can also be shared through Smart’s PasaData.

Smart also released the enhanced version of its My Smart application, allowing subscribers to manage their postpaid and prepaid accounts virtually anywhere, view their account usage in real-time, and buy load and add-ons directly on the app. To further enhance the Filipino’s digital life, Smart also continued to provide exclusive content available through its other app, Smartlife. It streamed live and for free the 2016 Rio Olympics last August 2016, as well as launched new videos, music and daily live streaming of TV5 and FOX Sports.

The following table shows the breakdown of our cellular service revenues for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015:

                                 
                    Increase (Decrease)
    2016   2015   Amount   %
            (in millions)        
Cellular service revenues
    67,608       73,594       (5,986 )     (8 )
By service type
    66,028       72,072       (6,044 )     (8 )
Prepaid
    47,787       54,483       (6,696 )     (12 )
Postpaid
    18,241       17,589       652       4  
By component
    66,028       72,072       (6,044 )     (8 )
Data
    37,750       37,531       219       1  
Voice
    28,278       34,541       (6,263 )     (18 )
Others(1)
    1,580       1,522       58       4  
 
                               

    (1) Refers to other non-subscriber-related revenues consisting primarily of inbound international roaming fees, share in revenues from Smart Money, PLDT’s WeRoam and PLDT Landline Plus, or PLP, services, a small number of leased line contracts, and revenues from and other Smart subsidiaries.

The following table shows other key measures of our cellular business as at and for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015:

                                         
                    Increase (Decrease)
    2016   2015   Amount           %
Cellular subscriber base
    61,810,521       67,002,843       (5,192,322 )             (8 )
Prepaid
    59,116,807       64,082,775       (4,965,968 )             (8 )
Smart
    20,911,897       23,390,886       (2,478,989 )             (11 )
TNT
    29,851,572       27,708,831       2,142,741               8  
Sun Cellular
    8,353,338       12,983,058       (4,629,720 )             (36 )
Postpaid
    2,693,714       2,920,068       (226,354 )             (8 )
Sun Cellular
    1,431,461       1,736,072       (304,611 )             (18 )
Smart
    1,262,253       1,183,996       78,257               7  
Systemwide traffic volumes (in million minutes)
                                       
Calls
    49,034       40,894       8,140               20  
Domestic
    47,569       38,985       8,584               22  
Inbound
    658       754       (96 )             (13 )
Outbound
    46,911       38,231       8,680               23  
International
    1,465       1,909       (444 )             (23 )
Inbound
    1,261       1,643       (382 )             (23 )
Outbound
    204       266       (62 )             (23 )
                             
Text/Data count (in million hits)
    229,321       289,065       (59,744 )             (21 )
Text messages
    227,742       287,629       (59,887 )             (21 )
Domestic
    227,239       286,972       (59,733 )             (21 )
Bucket-Priced/Unlimited
    201,228       260,576       (59,348 )             (23 )
Standard
    26,011       26,396       (385 )             (1 )
International
    503       657       (154 )             (23 )
Value-Added Services
    1,579       1,436       143               10  
                             

Prepaid Revenues

Revenues generated from our prepaid cellular services amounted to Php47,787 million in the first nine months of 2016, a decrease of Php6,696 million, or 12%, as compared with Php54,483 million in the same period in 2015. Prepaid cellular service revenues accounted for 72% and 76% of cellular voice and data revenues in the first nine months of 2016 and 2015, respectively. The decrease in revenues from our prepaid cellular services was primarily driven by lower prepaid cellular subscriber base resulting to lower voice and text messaging revenues, partially offset by an increase in mobile internet revenues.

Smart Prepaid continues to push its “smartphone-for-all” strategy.  On June 17, 2016, Smart Prepaid introduced Starmobile Play Click, a five-inch screen Android smartphone. For a one-time payment of Php1,288 plus a purchase of a Php100 Smart Prepaid load card, the smartphone kit comes with free 100MB mobile data and Php30 load reward per month for 12 months, if the subscriber reaches an accumulated top-up of Php100 per month.  The package also includes a free TNT SIM that comes with free Facebook, Twitter and Viber for seven days and two days of unlimited text to all-networks.

In July 2016, Smart Prepaid relaunched its Smart Prepaid LTE SIM to target data users, with free 50MB mobile data per month for six months and a 100MB monthly data reward for an accumulated top-up of Php100 per month for six months.

In August 2016, Smart Prepaid also launched the All-Out Surf bundle, which combines volume-based data, unlimited all-net texts and capped on-net minutes starting at Php30 valid for two days. This was designed for heavy text users who are transitioning into mobile data users.

Smart Prepaid continued to engage the digital Filipino youth with “Smart Launchpad”, a first-of-its-kind online talent search that aims to discover and nurture the next generation of YouTube content creators.  From 1,537 entries, the top 100 advanced to the workshop where they were mentored by industry experts and top online stars. Three finalists were ultimately named the Next Big Pinoy Creators. They won Samsung gadgets and an all-expense paid trip to Los Angeles to collaborate with international star and YouTube creator, The Filharmonic.

In October 15, 2016, Smart Prepaid also introduced the O+ Presto 700 LTE, an LTE 700MHz-capable device, giving subscribers a faster digital experience. For a one-time payment of Php2,199 plus a purchase of a Php300 Smart Prepaid load card, the smartphone kit comes with free 100MB mobile data and Php30 load reward per month for 12 months, if the subscriber reaches an accumulated top-up of Php100 per month, plus an additional free Php300 smart load card.

Smart’s value brand, TNT, launched its new logo, brand ambassadors and theme song “It’s a Tropa Thing” on June 8, 2016. TNT continues to offer the Alden & Maine load or AM15 that allows Katropas to keep up with their favorite couple, Alden and Maine, and all updates online. With Php15 per day, a TNT subscriber can enjoy 100MB of mobile data that can be used to access any of their favorite apps like Facebook, Viber, Twitter, Clash of Clans and Dubsmash, one day of unlimited texts to all networks and 60 minutes of calls to TNT, Smart and Sun.

On September 17, 2016, TNT launched Babad Apps which give subscribers access to their favorite mobile applications at Php5 per day or Php10 for three days, per app. Babad Apps that subscribers can choose from include Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Viber, WeChat, Clash of Clans, Wattpad, Boom Beach, Hay Day, Clash Royale, Youtube and Google.

Postpaid Revenues

Revenues generated from postpaid cellular service amounted to Php18,241 million in the first nine months of 2016, an increase of Php652 million, or 4%, as compared with Php17,589 million in the same period in 2015, and accounted for 28% and 24% of cellular voice and data revenues in the first nine months of 2016 and 2015, respectively. The increase in our postpaid cellular service revenues was primarily driven by the continuous growth of our Smart postpaid subscriber base.

We continue to offer a wide array of choices for postpaid subscription plans. Smart All-in Plans, which are offered at Plan 500 up to Plan 2500, enable subscribers to avail of call, text and data services, mix and match services or create their own plan using various flexibundles, all charged within the subscriber’s monthly service fee. Top picks for Flexibundles are Tri-net Plus 399, Unli Call and Text 599 and SurfMax 995 while the newest bundles include App On, Giga Surf and Shared Data bundles.

Smart Postpaid also offers the Smart Surf Plus Plans with bigger data allocations, call and text credits, and a free VAS subscription of choice, starting at Plan 399 with 100MB of data, up to Plan 2999 with 10GB, plus free calls and texts bundles. Meanwhile, Smart iPhone Plans ranges from Plan 799 to Plan 2499, inclusive of All Month Surf browsing which allows subscribers to do regular online activities such as web searches, social media posts, email and chat messaging, and a monthly data volume allowance which can be used for heavier internet activities like music or video streaming, downloading/uploading, peer-to-peer file-sharing, VoIP calls and the likes.

Smart Infinity offers premium postpaid plans that complement every lifestyle, with exclusive access to Infinity Lifestyle App, Infinity relationship officer, a dedicated hotline, worldwide concierge, VIP network access and latest handsets.  Best suited for frequent flyers, Roaming Plan 5000 and Plan 8000 offer lower roaming rates, complimentary roaming SMS and 15 GB data allocation. Consumable Plan 3500, Plan 5000 and Plan 8000 offer flexibility to fit subscribers’ ever-changing needs and comes with 30 GB volume allocation. Infinity also offers unlimited calls to Smart, Sun and TNT thru its Tri-Net Plan and unlimited Family Plan calling circle with free data allocation.

      Data Services

Cellular revenues from our data services, which include all text messaging-related services, as well as VAS, mobile internet and other data revenues, increased by Php219 million, or 1%, to Php37,750 million in the first nine months of 2016 from Php37,531 million in the same period in 2015 primarily due to higher mobile internet revenues, partially offset by lower text messaging revenues. Cellular data services accounted for 56% and 51% of our cellular service revenues in the first nine months of 2016 and 2015, respectively.

The following table shows the breakdown of our cellular data service revenues for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015:

                                 
                    Increase (Decrease)
    2016   2015   Amount   %
            (in millions)        
Text messaging
                               
Domestic
    22,865       25,699       (2,834 )     (11 )
Bucket-Priced/Unlimited
    15,881       17,440       (1,559 )     (9 )
Standard
    6,984       8,259       (1,275 )     (15 )
International
    1,410       1,963       (553 )     (28 )
 
                               
 
    24,275       27,662       (3,387 )     (12 )
 
                               
Mobile internet(1)
    12,539       8,667       3,872       45  
Value-added services(2)
    936       1,202       (266 )     (22 )
Total
    37,750       37,531       219       1  
 
                               

    (1) Includes revenues from web-based services, net of allocated discounts and content provider costs.

    (2) Includes revenues, net of allocated discounts and content provider costs, from Smart Pasa Load, Sun Cellular Give-a-load and Dial*SOS; Music (Spinnr and Deezer, music subscription mainly ring back tunes and music downloads); Gaming (games subscriptions, downloads, and purchases); Videos (video subscriptions, downloads and video and movie streaming via iflix and Fox); Infotainment (subscriptions and downloads of broadcast materials that are intended both to entertain and to inform, as well as info-on-demand); financial services ( revenues from Smart Money Clicks via Smart Menu and mobile banking); Communicate, (revenues from group chat, text and voice messaging services); and Other VAS ( includes revenues from application program interface (API) downloads, info-on-demand and voice text services).

Text messaging-related services contributed revenues of Php24,275 million in the first nine months of 2016, a decrease of Php3,387 million, or 12%, as compared with Php27,662 million in the same period in 2015, and accounted for 64% and 74% of our total cellular data service revenues in the first nine months of 2016 and 2015, respectively. The decrease in revenues from text messaging-related services resulted mainly from lower outbound standard and bucket-priced/unlimited text, as well as lower international text messaging revenues. Text messaging revenues from various bucket-priced/unlimited text offers totaled Php15,881 million in the first nine months of 2016, a decrease of Php1,559 million, or 9%, as compared with Php17,440 million in the same period in 2015. Bucket-priced/unlimited text messages decreased by 59,348 million, or 23%, to 201,228 million in the first nine months of 2016 from 260,576 million in the same period in 2015.

Mobile internet service revenues increased by Php3,872 million, or 45%, to Php12,539 million in the first nine months of 2016 from Php8,667 million in the same period in 2015 as a result of the increase in smartphone ownership and greater data adoption among our subscriber base leading to an increase in mobile internet browsing and prevalent use of mobile apps, social networking sites and other over-the-top, or OTT, services. Data offerings such as Smart Big Bytes Barkada, Shared Data, Giga Surf and App on Flexibundles were also introduced during the year to boost data usage.

Voice Services

Cellular revenues from our voice services, which include all voice traffic, decreased by Php6,263 million, or 18%, to Php28,278 million in the first nine months of 2016 from Php34,541 million in the same period in 2015 primarily due to lower domestic and international voice revenues due to the availability of alternative calling options and other OTT services such as Viber, Facebook Messenger, etc. Cellular voice services accounted for 42% and 47% of our cellular service revenues in the first nine months of 2016 and 2015, respectively.

The following table shows the breakdown of our cellular voice revenues for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015:

                                         
                    Decrease
    2016   2015   Amount   %
            (in millions)                
Voice services:
                                       
Domestic
                                       
Inbound
    2,562       2,928       (366 )             (13 )
Outbound
    19,270       23,188       (3,918 )             (17 )
 
                                       
 
    21,832       26,116       (4,284 )             (16 )
 
                                       
International
                                       
Inbound
    5,732       7,340       (1,608 )             (22 )
Outbound
    714       1,085       (371 )             (34 )
 
                                       
 
    6,446       8,425       (1,979 )             (23 )
 
                                       
Total
    28,278       34,541       (6,263 )             (18 )
 
                                       

Domestic voice service revenues decreased by Php4,284 million, or 16%, to Php21,832 million in the first nine months of 2016 from Php26,116 million in the same period in 2015, due to lower domestic outbound and inbound voice service revenues by Php3,918 million and Php366 million, respectively.

International voice service revenues decreased by Php1,979 million, or 23%, to Php6,446 million in the first nine months of 2016 from Php8,425 million in the same period in 2015 primarily due to lower international inbound and outbound voice service revenues as a result of lower international voice traffic, partially offset by the effect of higher weighted average exchange rate of the Philippine peso relative to the U.S. dollar.

Cellular – Others

Revenues from our other cellular services, which include non-subscriber-related revenues consisting of inbound international roaming fees and share in revenues from PLDT WeRoam and PLP, increased by Php58 million, or 4%, to Php1,580 million in the first nine months of 2016 from Php1,522 million in the same period in 2015 primarily due to higher share of Smart in PayMaya’s peer-to-peer (P2P) transaction fees and other subscriber-related income, partially offset by lower revenues from inbound roaming. Other cellular services accounted for 2% of our cellular service revenues in each of the first nine months of 2016 and 2015.

Subscriber Base, Average Revenue Per User, or ARPU, and Churn Rates

As at September 30, 2016, our cellular subscribers totaled 61,810,521 a decrease of 5,192,322, or 8%, from the cellular subscriber base of 67,002,843 as at September 30, 2015. Our cellular prepaid subscriber base decreased by 4,965,968, or 8%, to 59,116,807 as at September 30, 2016 from 64,082,775 as at September 30, 2015, and our cellular postpaid subscriber base decreased by 226,354, or 8%, to 2,693,714 as at September 30, 2016 from 2,920,068 as at September 30, 2015. The decrease in cellular subscriber base was primarily due to net decreases in Smart and Sun Cellular subscribers by 2,400,732 and 4,934,331, respectively, partly offset by higher TNT subscribers by 2,142,741. Prepaid subscribers accounted for 96% of our total subscriber base as at September 30, 2016 and 2015.

Our net subscriber activations (reductions) for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015 were as follows:

                                         
                    Increase (Decrease)
    2016   2015   Amount           %
Prepaid
    (2,863,618 )     (3,008,837 )     145,219               (5 )
Smart
    (1,980,406 )     (1,486,258 )     (494,148 )             33  
TNT
    1,797,412       (440,529 )     2,237,941               (508 )
Sun Cellular
    (2,680,624 )     (1,082,050 )     (1,598,574 )             148  
Postpaid
    (263,935 )     154,620       (418,555 )             (271 )
Smart
    32,527       143,775       (111,248 )             (77 )
Sun Cellular
    (296,462 )     10,845       (307,307 )             (2,834 )
                             
Total
    (3,127,553 )     (2,854,217 )     (273,336 )             10  
                             

The following table summarizes our average monthly churn rates for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015:

                 
    2016   2015
 
  (in %)        
Prepaid
    7.0       6.9  
Postpaid
    5.7       3.6  
 
               

The following table summarizes our average monthly cellular ARPUs for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015:

                                                                 
    Gross(1)   Increase (Decrease)   Net(2)   Increase (Decrease)
    2016   2015   Amount   %   2016   2015   Amount   %
Prepaid
                                                               
Smart
    114       128       (14 )     (11 )     104       116       (12 )     (10 )
TNT
    83       91       (8 )     (9 )     76       84       (8 )     (10 )
Sun Cellular
    88       70       18       26       80       64       16       25  
Postpaid
                                                               
Smart
    1,021       1,054       (33 )     (3 )     1,007       1,042       (35 )     (3 )
Sun Cellular
    441       438       3       1       435       435              
 
                                                               

    (1) Gross monthly ARPU is calculated by dividing gross cellular service revenues for the month, gross of discounts, allocated content provider costs and interconnection income but excluding inbound roaming revenues, by the average number of subscribers in the month.

    (2) Net monthly ARPU is calculated by dividing gross cellular service revenues for the month, including interconnection income, but excluding inbound roaming revenues, net of discounts and content provider costs, by the average number of subscribers in the month.

Our average monthly prepaid and postpaid ARPUs per quarter of 2016 and 2015 were as follows:

                                                                                                         
    Prepaid   Postpaid
    Smart           TNT           Sun Cellular   Smart   Sun Cellular
    Gross(1)   Net(2)           Gross(1)   Net(2)           Gross(1)   Net(2)   Gross(1)   Net(2)   Gross(1)   Net(2)
2016
                                                                                                       
First Quarter
    119       109               87       80               85       78               1,018       999       463       459  
Second Quarter
    116       106               84       77               88       80               1,030       1,018       452       443  
Third Quarter
    108       99               77       71               89       83               1,016       1,004       409       404  
2015
                                                                                                       
First Quarter
    130       118               93       85               68       63               1,049       1,039       452       449  
Second Quarter
    127       114       0       91       83               70       64               1,080       1,065       422       419  
Third Quarter
    127       115               90       82               71       65               1,034       1,021       439       436  
Fourth Quarter
    122       113               91       83               77       71               1,029       1,014       436       475  
                                                                                 

    (1) Gross monthly ARPU is calculated based on the average of the gross monthly ARPUs for the quarter.

    (2) Net monthly ARPU is calculated based on the average of the net monthly ARPUs for the quarter.

Wireless Broadband and Other Services

Our revenues from wireless broadband and other services consist mainly of wireless broadband service revenues from Smart, SBI and DMPI, charges for ACeS Philippines’ satellite information and messaging services and service revenues generated by MVNOs of PLDT Global’s subsidiaries.

Wireless Broadband

Revenues from our wireless broadband services increased by Php422 million, or 5%, to Php8,468 million in the first nine months of 2016 from Php8,046 million in the same period in 2015, primarily due to an increase in prepaid revenues by Php445 million, or 14%, to Php3,587 million in the first nine months of 2016 from Php3,142 million in the same period in 2015, partly offset by lower postpaid revenues by Php23 million to Php4,881 million in the first nine months of 2016 from Php4,904 million in the same period in 2015.

The following table shows information of our wireless broadband revenues for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015 and subscriber base as at September 30, 2016 and 2015:

                                 
                    Increase (Decrease)
    2016   2015   Amount   %
Wireless Broadband Revenues (in millions)
    8,468       8,046       422       5  
By service type
                               
Prepaid
    3,587       3,142       445       14  
Postpaid
    4,881       4,904       (23 )      
By brand
                               
Smart Bro (Dongles/Pocket WiFi)
    6,411       5,712       699       12  
Home Bro (Fixed Wireless)
    2,057       2,334       (277 )     (12 )
Wireless Broadband Subscribers
    3,837,153       3,789,654       47,499       1  
Smart Bro (Dongles/Pocket WiFi)
    3,565,581       3,518,159       47,422       1  
Prepaid
    3,142,260       2,941,862       200,398       7  
Postpaid
    423,321       576,297       (152,976 )     (27 )
Home Bro – Postpaid
    271,572       271,495       77        
 
                               

As at September 30, 2016, Smart and Sun wireless broadband had a total of 3,837,153 subscribers, a net increase of 47,499 subscribers, or 1%, as compared with 3,789,654 subscribers as at September 30, 2015, primarily due to an increase in Smart Bro subscribers by 47,422, or 1%. Our Smart Bro prepaid subscribers increased by 200,398 subscribers, or 7%, to 3,142,260 subscribers as at September 30, 2016 from 2,941,862 subscribers as at September 30, 2015, while our Smart Bro postpaid subscribers decreased by 152,976 subscribers, or 27%, to 423,321 subscribers as at September 30, 2016 from 576,297 subscribers as at September 30, 2015.

Smart Bro offers internet access through Smart Bro Pocket WiFi, a portable wireless router which can be shared by up to 10 users/gadgets at a time.  It provides connectivity at varying speeds supported by Smart’s network utilizing HSPA, 4G HSPA+ or LTE-technology. Smart Bro Pocket WiFi is available in both postpaid and prepaid variants.

Smart Bro continues to grow wireless broadband revenues through various prepaid and postpaid offers. Throughout the third quarter of 2016, Smart Bro bannered various packages both for new and existing subscribers. The BRO-kada, comprised of today’s favorite millenial celebrities, went around the country to make data more accessible to its target market, offering the Prepaid Pocket WiFi at Php888 and the iPad Mini 2 at Plan 599. Furthermore, it has partnered with PLDT to offer the Pocket WiFi even to far-flung areas that can be served with the wireless broadband access that Smart Bro can provide. The brand closed the quarter strong with Smart Bro’s free Pocket WiFi for all postpaid plans, loaded with more data and faster speed. These all-new Postpaid Plans were made available to Smart Bro’s existing postpaid subscribers first. All these programs brought in more subscribers into the brand, driving growth in activations and creating buzz for the brand.

Smart Broadband also offers PLDT HOMEBro, a fixed wireless broadband service being offered under PLDT’s HOME brand. PLDT HOMEBro is powered by Smart’s wireless broadband base stations which allow subscribers to connect to the internet using indoor or outdoor customer premises equipment through various wireless technologies.  ULTERA, our fixed wireless broadband offering designed for the home, utilizes the TD-LTE technology. 

DMPI’s Sun Broadband is an affordable high-speed wireless broadband service utilizing advanced 3.5G HSPA and LTE technology offering various plans and packages to internet users.  Sun Broadband continues to grow the value broadband segment with its Non-Stop Surf Plans and Loads.

Others

Revenues from our other services decreased by Php247 million, or 34%, to Php486 million in the first nine months of 2016 from Php733 million in the same period in 2015, primarily due to a decrease in the number of ACeS Philippines’ subscribers, lower revenue contribution from MVNOs of PLDT Global, partially offset by the impact of higher weighted average exchange rate of the Philippine peso relative to the U.S. dollar to Php46.95 for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 from Php45.07 for the nine months ended September 30, 2015 on our U.S. dollar and U.S. dollar-linked other service revenues.

Digital Platforms and Mobile Financial Services

Revenues from digital platforms and mobile financial services, as reported by Voyager, decreased by Php437 million, or 51%, to Php424 million in the first nine months of 2016 from Php861 million in the same period in 2015 resulting from the deconsolidation of ePay, the holding company of PayMaya, for the period February to July 2016, with total service revenues of Php503 million during the said period. ePay was reconsolidated to Smart in August 2016 and posted revenues of Php247 million for the months of January, August and September 2016. Had we included PayMaya revenues for the period February to July 2016, revenues would have been Php927 million in the first nine months of 2016, an increase of 8%, from Php861 million in the same period in 2015.

Non-Service Revenues

Our wireless non-service revenues consist of sales of cellular handsets, cellular SIM-packs and broadband data modems, tablets and accessories. Our wireless non-service revenues increased by Php50 million, or 1%, to Php3,571 million in the first nine months of 2016 from Php3,521 million in the same period in 2015, primarily due to higher revenues from cellular prepaid attributed to Smart Prepaid Android Phone Kits Php888 and Php1,288.

Expenses

Expenses associated with our wireless business amounted to Php69,519 million in the first nine months of 2016, an increase of Php5,631 million, or 9%, from Php63,888 million in the same period in 2015. A significant portion of the increase was attributable to higher expenses related to asset impairment, cost of sales, depreciation and amortization, taxes and licenses, and professional and other contracted services, partially offset by lower selling and promotions, rent, compensation and employee benefits, interconnection costs, repairs and maintenance, insurance and security services, communications, training and travel, and other operating expenses. As a percentage of our total wireless revenues, expenses associated with our wireless business accounted for 86% and 74% in the first nine months of 2016 and 2015, respectively.

The following table summarizes the breakdown of our total wireless-related expenses for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015 and the percentage of each expense item in relation to the total:

                                                         
                                    Increase (Decrease)
    2016   %   2015   %   Amount           %
                    (in millions)                
Depreciation and amortization
    12,450       18       11,524       18       926               8  
Cost of sales
    11,998       17       9,882       15       2,116               21  
Rent
    7,280       11       8,029       13       (749 )             (9 )
Asset impairment
    6,519       9       1,759       3       4,760               271  
Repairs and maintenance
    6,295       9       6,549       10       (254 )             (4 )
Interconnection costs
    6,022       9       6,300       10       (278 )             (4 )
Compensation and employee benefits
    5,185       8       5,513       9       (328 )             (6 )
Selling and promotions
    4,839       7       5,880       9       (1,041 )             (18 )
Professional and other contracted services
    4,183       6       4,069       6       114               3  
Taxes and licenses
    2,152       3       1,629       3       523               32  
Insurance and security services
    850       1       889       1       (39 )             (4 )
Amortization of intangible assets
    821       1       805       1       16               2  
Communication, training and travel
    677       1       707       1       (30 )             (4 )
Other expenses
    248             353       1       (105 )             (30 )
                                             
Total
    69,519       100       63,888       100       5,631               9  
                                             

Depreciation and amortization charges increased by Php926 million, or 8%, to Php12,450 million primarily due to higher depreciable asset base.

Cost of sales increased by Php2,116 million, or 21%, to Php11,998 million primarily due to higher average costs and increased smartphone and data-capable device issuances for Smart Postpaid subscribers, and increased availments for Smart Prepaid Android Phone Kits Php888 and Php1,288.

Rent expenses decreased by Php749 million, or 9%, to Php7,280 million primarily due to lower domestic fiber optic network rental charges. 

Asset impairment increased by Php4,760 million to Php6,519 million primarily due to higher provisions for doubtful accounts and inventory obsolescence.

Repairs and maintenance expenses decreased by Php254 million, or 4%, to Php6,295 million mainly due to lower site and office electricity costs, lower maintenance costs on domestic cable and wire facilities, customer premises and telecoms equipment, partially offset by higher maintenance costs on site facilities and IT software as a result of our network expansion.

Interconnection costs decreased by Php278 million, or 4%, to Php6,022 million primarily due to lower interconnection cost on international voice and text services, partially offset by an increase in interconnection charges on domestic voice and text services.

Compensation and employee benefits decreased by Php328 million, or 6%, to Php5,185 million primarily due to lower salaries and employee benefits, and provision for pension benefits, partly offset by higher MRP costs. Employee headcount decreased to 7,346 as at September 30, 2016 as compared with 7,610 as at September 30, 2015.

Selling and promotion expenses decreased by Php1,041 million, or 18%, to Php4,839 million primarily due to lower advertising and promotions, and public relations expenses, partially offset by higher commission expenses.

Professional and other contracted service fees increased by Php114 million, or 3%, to Php4,183 million primarily due to increase in managed services, facility usage costs and contracted services, partly offset by lower call center and consultancy fees.

Taxes and licenses increased by Php523 million, or 32%, to Php2,152 million due to higher real property taxes and other business-related taxes in the first nine months of 2016.

Insurance and security services decreased by Php39 million, or 4%, to Php850 million primarily due to lower site security expenses, partially offset by higher office security expenses.

Amortization of intangible assets increased by Php16 million, or 2%, to Php821 million primarily due to higher license fees.

Communication, training and travel expenses decreased by Php30 million, or 4%, to Php677 million primarily due to lower fuel costs for vehicles as a result of lower average fuel cost per liter and lower communication expenses, partially offset by higher travel expenses.

Other expenses decreased by Php105 million, or 30%, to Php248 million primarily due to lower various business and operational-related expenses.

Other Income (Expenses)

The following table summarizes the breakdown of our total wireless-related other income (expenses) for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015:

                                         
                    Change
    2016   2015   Amount   %
Other Income (Expenses):           (in millions)                
Financing costs – net
    (1,838 )     (1,308 )     (530 )             41  
Foreign exchange losses – net
    (892 )     (1,292 )     400               (31 )
Equity share in net losses of associates
    (206 )     (47 )     (159 )             338  
Gain on derivative financial instruments – net     275       14       261     1,864
Interest income
    196       239       (43 )             (18 )
Other income – net
    847       602       245               41  
                             
Total
    (1,618 )     (1,792 )     174               (10 )
                             

Our wireless business’ other expenses amounted to Php1,618 million in the first nine months of 2016, a decrease of Php174 million, or 10%, from Php1,792 million in the same period in 2015, primarily due to the combined effects of the following: (i) lower foreign exchange losses by Php400 million on account of the revaluation of net foreign currency-denominated liabilities due to the lower depreciation of the Philippine peso relative to the U.S. dollar in the first nine months of 2016 as against the same period in 2015; (ii) higher gains on derivative financial instruments by Php261 million on account of mark-to-market gains on forward purchase contracts due to the depreciation of the Philippine peso relative to the U.S. dollar; (iii) an increase in other income – net by Php245 million mainly due to higher income from consultancy services; (iv) lower interest income by Php43 million mainly due to lower weighted average interest rate and the decrease in principal amount of temporary cash investments; (v) higher equity share in net losses of associates by Php159 million due to equity share in net losses of PHIH and ECommerce Pay in the first nine months of 2016, and higher share in net losses of AFPI; and (vi) higher net financing costs by Php530 million due to higher outstanding loan balance, higher weighted average interest rate, higher financing charges and the depreciation of the Philippine peso relative to the U.S. dollar in the first nine months of 2016, partly offset by higher capitalized interest.

Provision for Income Tax

Provision for income tax decreased by Php1,767 million, or 34%, to Php3,486 million in the first nine months of 2016 from Php5,253 million in the same period in 2015 primarily due to lower taxable income. The effective tax rates for our wireless business were 37% and 25% in the first nine months of 2016 and 2015, respectively.

Net Income

As a result of the foregoing, our wireless business’ net income decreased by Php9,888 million, or 62%, to Php5,934 million in the first nine months of 2016 from Php15,822 million in the same period in 2015.

EBITDA

Our wireless business’ EBITDA decreased by Php10,887 million, or 31%, to Php24,309 million in the first nine months of 2016 from Php35,196 million in the same period in 2015.

Core Income

Our wireless business’ core income decreased by Php10,533 million, or 63%, to Php6,302 million in the first nine months of 2016 from Php16,835 million in the same period in 2015 on account of higher operating expenses and lower revenues, partially offset by lower provision for income tax and lower other expenses.

Fixed Line

Revenues

Revenues generated from our fixed line business amounted to Php54,071 million in the first nine months of 2016, an increase of Php3,149 million, or 6%, from Php50,922 million in the same period in 2015.

The following table summarizes our total revenues from our fixed line business for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015 by service segment:

                                                         
                                            Increase (Decrease)
    2016   %   2015   %           Amount   %
                            (in millions)        
Service Revenues:
                                                       
Data and other network
    27,783       52       24,872       49               2,911       12  
Local exchange
    13,268       25       12,750       25               518       4  
International long distance
    6,043       11       6,823       13               (780 )     (11 )
National long distance
    2,872       5       3,028       6               (156 )     (5 )
Miscellaneous
    1,221       2       1,098       2               123       11  
                                             
 
    51,187       95       48,571       95               2,616       5  
Non-Service Revenues:
                                                       
Sale of computers, phone units and SIM cards, and point-product sales
    2,884       5       2,351       5               533       23  
                                             
Total Fixed Line Revenues
    54,071       100       50,922       100               3,149       6  
                                             

Service Revenues

Our fixed line business provides data and other network services, local exchange service, national and international long distance services, and miscellaneous services. Our fixed line service revenues increased by Php2,616 million, or 5%, to Php51,187 million in the first nine months of 2016 from Php48,571 million in the same period in 2015 due to higher revenues from our data and other network, local exchange and miscellaneous services, partially offset by lower national and international long distance service revenues.

Data and Other Network Services

The following table shows information of our data and other network service revenues for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015:

                                 
                    Increase (Decrease)
    2016   2015   Amount   %
Data and other network service revenues (in millions)
    27,783       24,872       2,911       12  
Domestic
    19,129       17,492       1,637       9  
Broadband
    13,905       11,887       2,018       17  
Leased Lines and Others
    5,224       5,605       (381 )     (7 )
International
                               
Leased Lines and Others
    6,496       5,482       1,014       18  
Data Center and ICT
    2,158       1,898       260       14  
Subscriber base
                               
Broadband
    1,407,122       1,224,735       182,387       15  
 
                               

Our data and other network services posted revenues of Php27,783 million in the first nine months of 2016, an increase of Php2,911 million, or 12%, from Php24,872 million in the same period in 2015, primarily due to higher domestic data revenues from DSL, Fibr, Metro Ethernet and Shops.Work, international data revenues primarily from i-Gate, leased lines, and data center and ICT revenues, partly offset by lower Diginet revenues. The percentage contribution of this service segment to our fixed line service revenues was 54% and 51% in the first nine months of 2016 and 2015, respectively.

Domestic

Domestic data services contributed Php19,129 million in the first nine months of 2016, an increase of Php1,637 million, or 9%, as compared with Php17,492 million in the same period in 2015 mainly due to sustained market traction of broadband data services such as DSL and Fibr, as a result of higher internet connectivity requirements, and key Private Networking Solutions such as Internet Protocol-Virtual Private Network, or IP-VPN, Metro Ethernet and Shops.Work. The percentage contribution of domestic data service revenues to total data and other network services were 69% and 70% in the first nine months of 2016 and 2015, respectively.

Broadband

Broadband data services include DSL broadband internet service, which is intended for individual internet users, small and medium enterprises, and large corporations with multiple branches, and Fibr, our most advanced broadband internet connection. Broadband data revenues amounted to Php13,905 million in the first nine months of 2016, an increase of Php2,018 million, or 17%, from Php11,887 million in the same period in 2015 as a result of the increase in the number of subscribers by 182,387, or 15%, to 1,407,122 subscribers as at September 30, 2016 from 1,224,735 subscribers as at September 30, 2015. Broadband revenues accounted for 50% and 48% of total data and other network service revenues in the first nine months of 2016 and 2015, respectively.

Leased Lines and Others

Leased lines and other data services include: (1) Diginet, our domestic private leased line service providing Smart’s fiber optic and leased line data requirements; (2) IP-VPN, a managed corporate IP network that offers a secure means to access corporate network resources; (3) Metro Ethernet, our high-speed wide area networking services that enable mission-critical data transfers; and (4) Shops.Work, our connectivity solution for retailers and franchisers that links company branches to their head office. Leased lines and other data service revenues contributed Php5,224 million in the first nine months of 2016, a decrease of Php381 million, or 7%, from Php5,605 million in the same period in 2015 primarily due to lower Diginet revenues, partly offset by higher revenues from Metro Ethernet, IP-VPN and Shops.Work. The percentage contribution of leased lines and other data service revenues to the total data and other network services were 19% and 22% in the first nine months of 2016 and 2015, respectively.

International

Leased Lines and Others

International leased lines and other data services consist mainly of: (1) i-Gate, our premium dedicated internet access service that provides high speed, reliable and managed connectivity to the global internet, and is intended for enterprises and VAS providers; (2) Fibernet, which provides cost-effective and reliable bilateral point-to-point private networking connectivity, through the use of our extensive international alliances to offshore and outsourcing, banking and finance, and semiconductor industries; and (3) other international managed data services in partnership with other global service providers, which provide data networking services to multinational companies. International data service revenues increased by Php1,014 million, or 18%, to Php6,496 million in the first nine months of 2016 from Php5,482 million in the same period in 2015, primarily due to higher Fibernet and i-Gate revenues, and IP-VPN local access services, an increase in revenues from various global service providers and the favorable effect of a higher weighted average exchange rate of the Philippine peso relative to the U.S. dollar. The percentage contribution of international data service revenues to total data and other network service revenues were 23% and 22% in the first nine months of 2016 and 2015, respectively.

Data Center and ICT

Data centers provide colocation and related connectivity, disaster recovery, server hosting, cloud, big data and other data center services. As at September 30, 2016, ePLDT Group had a total of 6,787 rack capacity in seven locations covering Metro Manila, Subic and Cebu. On July 28, 2016, PLDT, through ePLDT, inaugurated VITRO Makati, the country’s biggest data center with 3,600 racks at full capacity, and located in one of the country’s premiere business districts. It is equipped with highly-resilient systems and facilities to guarantee continuous operations, ensuring that businesses can utilize robust and scalable digital infrastructure, as well as world-class 24/7 technical support capabilities. Data center revenues increased by Php260 million, or 14%, to Php2,158 million in the first nine months of 2016 from Php1,898 million in the same period in 2015 mainly due to higher revenues from colocation, cloud, big data and managed IT services. Cloud services include cloud contact center, cloud Infrastructure as a Service, cloud Software as a Service, managed security services and cloud professional services and accounted for 22% of data center revenues in each of the first nine months of 2016 and 2015. The percentage contribution of this service segment to our total data and other network service revenues was 8% in each of the first nine months of 2016 and 2015.

    Local Exchange Service

The following table summarizes the key measures of our local exchange service business as at and for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015:

                                 
                    Increase (Decrease)
    2016   2015   Amount   %
Total local exchange service revenues (in millions)
    13,268       12,750       518       4  
Number of fixed line subscribers
    2,404,893       2,285,952       118,941       5  
Postpaid
    2,370,809       2,245,748       125,061       6  
Prepaid
    34,084       40,204       (6,120 )     (15 )
Number of fixed line LEC employees
    7,152       6,966       186       3  
Number of fixed line subscribers per employee
    336       328       8       2  
 
                               

Revenues from our local exchange service increased by Php518 million, or 4%, to Php13,268 million in the first nine months of 2016 from Php12,750 million in the same period in 2015, primarily due to an increase in subscribers. The percentage contribution of local exchange revenues to our total fixed line service revenues was 26% in each of the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015.

International Long Distance Service

The following table shows our international long distance service revenues and call volumes for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015:

                                 
                    Decrease
    2016   2015   Amount   %
Total international long distance service revenues (in millions)
    6,043       6,823       (780 )     (11 )
Inbound
    5,325       6,021       (696 )     (12 )
Outbound
    718       802       (84 )     (10 )
International call volumes (in million minutes, except call ratio)
    1,011       1,195       (184 )     (15 )
Inbound
    873       1,017       (144 )     (14 )
Outbound
    138       178       (40 )     (22 )
Inbound-outbound call ratio
    6.3:1       5.7:1              
 
                               

Our total international long distance service revenues decreased by Php780 million, or 11%, to Php6,043 million in the first nine months of 2016 from Php6,823 million in the same period in 2015, primarily due to lower call volumes for both inbound and outbound traffic as a result of the popularity of OTT service providers (e.g. Facebook, Skype, Viber, WhatsApp, etc.) over traditional long distance services, partially offset by the favorable effect of a higher weighted average exchange rate of the Philippine peso relative to the U.S. dollar to Php46.95 for the period ended September 30, 2016 from Php45.07 for the period ended September 30, 2015 and the net increase in average billing rates in dollar terms. The percentage contribution of international long distance service revenues to our total fixed line service revenues accounted for 12% and 14% in the first nine months of 2016 and 2015, respectively. Correspondingly, our total international long distance service revenues, net of interconnection costs, decreased by Php340 million, or 13%, to Php2,281 million in the first nine months of 2016 from Php2,621 million in the same period in 2015.

National Long Distance Service

The following table shows our national long distance service revenues and call volumes for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015:

                                 
                    Decrease
    2016   2015   Amount   %
Total national long distance service revenues (in millions)
    2,872       3,028       (156 )     (5 )
National long distance call volumes (in million minutes)
    554       577       (23 )     (4 )
 
                               

Our national long distance service revenues decreased by Php156 million, or 5%, to Php2,872 million in the first nine months of 2016 from Php3,028 million in the same period in 2015, primarily due to a decrease in call volumes. The percentage contribution of national long distance revenues to our fixed line service revenues was 6% in each of the first nine months of 2016 and 2015. Our national long distance service revenues, net of interconnection costs, decreased by Php76 million, or 3%, to Php2,296 million in the first nine months of 2016 from Php2,372 million in the same period in 2015.

Miscellaneous Services

Miscellaneous service revenues are derived mostly from rental, outsourcing and facilities management fees, and directory advertising. These service revenues increased by Php123 million, or 11%, to Php1,221 million in the first nine months of 2016 from Php1,098 million in the same period in 2015 mainly due to higher outsourcing and management fees, partly offset by royalties from directory services in 2015. The percentage contribution of miscellaneous service revenues to our total fixed line service revenues were 2% and 3% in the first nine months of 2016 and 2015, respectively.

Non-service Revenues

Non-service revenues increased by Php533 million, or 23%, to Php2,884 million in the first nine months of 2016 from Php2,351 million in the same period in 2015, primarily due to higher sale of PLP units and FabTAB for myDSL retention, managed ICT equipment and Home IP Cameras, partially offset by lower sale of UNO equipment and several managed PABX.

Expenses

Expenses related to our fixed line business totaled Php43,912 million in the first nine months of 2016, an increase of Php1,255 million, or 3%, as compared with Php42,657 million in the same period in 2015. The increase was primarily due to higher expenses related to professional and other contracted services, rent, depreciation and amortization, cost of sales, repairs and maintenance, selling and promotions, asset impairment, communication, training and travel, and other operating expenses, partly offset by lower expenses related to compensation and employee benefits, interconnection costs, taxes and licenses, and insurance and security services. As a percentage of our total fixed line revenues, expenses associated with our fixed line business accounted for 81% and 84% in the first nine months of 2016 and 2015, respectively.

The following table shows the breakdown of our total fixed line-related expenses for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015 and the percentage of each expense item to the total:

                                                         
                                            Increase (Decrease)
    2016   %           2015   %   Amount   %
                            (in millions)        
Depreciation and amortization     10,153       23     9,663     23       490       5  
Compensation and employee benefits     9,905       23     10,877     25       (972 )     (9 )
Repairs and maintenance     5,516       13     5,149     12       367       7  
Interconnection costs     4,381       10     4,921     12       (540 )     (11 )
Professional and other contracted services     4,170       9     3,330     8       840       25  
Rent     2,497       6     1,885     4       612       32  
Cost of sales     2,282       5     1,831     4       451       25  
Selling and promotions     1,615       4     1,500     4       115       8  
Asset impairment
    1,014       2               903       2       111       12  
Taxes and licenses     880       2     1,170     3       (290 )     (25 )
Insurance and security services
    521       1               541       1       (20 )     (4 )
Communication, training and travel
    451       1               405       1       46       11  
Other expenses
    527       1               482       1       45       9  
                                             
Total     43,912       100     42,657     100       1,255       3  
                                             

Depreciation and amortization charges increased by Php490 million, or 5% to Php10,153 million due to a higher depreciable asset base.

Compensation and employee benefits expenses decreased by Php972 million, or 9%, to Php9,905 million primarily due to lower MRP costs by Php1,349 million, or 95%, to Php78 million in the first nine months of 2016, and lower provision for pension benefits, partially offset by higher salaries and employee benefits. Employee headcount increased to 10,462 as at September 30, 2016 as compared with 9,523 as at September 30, 2015.

Repairs and maintenance expenses increased by Php367 million, or 7%, to Php5,516 million primarily due to higher repairs and maintenance costs on cable and wire facilities, and higher maintenance costs on IT hardware and software, and buildings, partially offset by lower office and site electricity charges.

Interconnection costs decreased by Php540 million, or 11%, to Php4,381 million primarily due to lower international interconnection/settlement costs as a result of a decrease in international inbound calls that terminated to other domestic carriers, and lower international outbound calls, and data and other network interconnection/settlement costs, particularly Fibernet and Infonet.

Professional and other contracted service expenses increased by Php840 million, or 25%, to Php4,170 million primarily due to higher consultancy, contracted service, and technical service fees, partially offset by lower bill printing, collection agency and legal fees.

Rent expenses increased by Php612 million, or 32%, to Php2,497 million primarily due to higher international leased circuit, office building and pole rental charges.

Cost of sales increased by Php451 million, or 25%, to Php2,282 million primarily due to higher sale of PLP units, FabTAB for myDSL retention, and several managed ICT equipment.

Selling and promotion expenses increased by Php115 million, or 8%, to Php1,615 million primarily due to higher cost of events, and advertising and promotions expenses, partly offset by lower expenses on commissions and public relations.

Asset impairment increased by Php111 million, or 12%, to Php1,014 million mainly due to higher provision for doubtful accounts and inventory obsolescence.

Taxes and licenses decreased by Php290 million, or 25%, to Php880 million as a result of lower tax settlement and other business-related taxes.

Insurance and security services decreased by Php20 million, or 4%, to Php521 million primarily due to lower insurance and bond premiums, office security services and life insurance premiums.

Communication, training and travel expenses increased by Php46 million, or 11%, to Php451 million mainly due to higher training and travel, and communication charges.

Other expenses increased by Php45 million, or 9%, to Php527 million primarily due to higher various business and operational-related expenses.

Other Income (Expenses)

The following table summarizes the breakdown of our total fixed line-related other income (expenses) for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015:

                                 
                    Change
    2016   2015   Amount   %
Other Income (Expenses):           (in millions)        
Financing costs – net
    (3,629 )     (3,279 )     (350 )     11  
Equity share in net losses of associates
    (48 )     (131 )     83       (63 )
Foreign exchange losses – net
    (236 )     (772 )     536       (69 )
Gains on derivative financial instruments – net
    236       433       (197 )     (45 )
Interest income
    534       448       86       19  
Other income – net
    2,282       1,367       915       67  
 
                               
Total
    (861 )     (1,934 )     1,073       (55 )
 
                               

Our fixed line business’ other expenses amounted to Php861 million in the first nine months of 2016, a decrease of Php1,073 million, or 55% from Php1,934 million in the same period in 2015 mainly due to the combined effects of the following: (i) an increase in other income – net by Php915 million due to gain on sale of property, fixed assets and materials, and higher gain on rental income; (ii) lower foreign exchange losses by Php536 million on account of revaluation of net foreign currency-denominated liabilities due to the lower depreciation of the Philippine peso relative to the U.S. dollar to Php48.48 as at September 30, 2016 from Php47.12 as at December 31, 2015 as against the depreciation of the Philippine peso relative to the U.S. dollar to Php46.83 as at September 30, 2015 from Php44.74 as at December 31, 2014; (iii) an increase in interest income by Php86 million due to higher weighted average interest rate and the depreciation of the Philippine peso relative to the U.S. dollar in the first nine months of 2016, partly offset by the decrease in principal amount of temporary cash investments; (iv) lower equity share in net losses of associates by Php83 million mainly due to the lower share in net losses of Cignal TV and higher share in net earnings of Hastings;
(v) lower gain on derivative financial instruments by Php197 million due to narrower dollar and peso interest rate differentials and the lower depreciation of the Philippine peso relative to the U.S. dollar in the first nine months of 2016; (vi) higher financing costs by Php350 million mainly due to higher outstanding loan balance, higher weighted average interest rate and the depreciation of the Philippine peso relative to the U.S. dollar in the first nine months of 2016, partially offset by lower financing charges and higher capitalized interest.

Provision for Income Tax

Provision for income tax amounted to Php2,681 million in the first nine months of 2016, an increase of Php716 million, or 36%, from Php1,965 million in the same period in 2015 primarily due to higher taxable income. The effective tax rates for our fixed line business was 31% in each of the first nine months of 2016 and 2015.

Net Income

As a result of the foregoing, our fixed line business registered a net income of Php6,617 million in the first nine months of 2016, an increase of Php2,251 million, or 52%, as compared with Php4,366 million in the same period in 2015.

EBITDA

Our fixed line business’ EBITDA increased by Php2,384 million, or 13%, to Php20,312 million in the first nine months of 2016 from Php17,928 million in the same period in 2015. EBITDA margin increased to 40% in the first nine months of 2016 from 37% in the same period in 2015.

Core Income

Our fixed line business’ core income increased by Php1,771 million, or 39%, to Php6,353 million in the first nine months of 2016 from Php4,582 million in the same period in 2015, primarily as a result of higher revenues and lower other expenses, partially offset by higher operating expenses and provision for income tax.

Others

Expenses

Expenses related to our other business totaled Php5,406 million in the first nine months of 2016, an increase of Php5,354 million as compared with Php52 million in the same period in 2015 primarily due to the recognition of the impairment loss on our investment in Rocket Internet SE (formerly Rocket Internet AG), or Rocket, resulting from the decline in Rocket’s share price to 17.47 with a fair value of Php9,206 million as at June 30, 2016 as compared with 28.24 with a fair value of Php14,587 million as at December 31, 2015. As at September 30, 2016, Rocket’s share price improved to 19.13 with a fair value of Php10,515 million.

Other Income

The following table summarizes the breakdown of other income – net for other business segment for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015:

                                 
                    Change
    2016   2015   Amount   %
Other Income (Expenses):           (in millions)        
Equity share in net earnings of associates and joint ventures
    1,731       2,846       (1,115 )     (39 )
Interest income
    189       72       117       163  
Financing costs – net
    (139 )     (132 )     (7 )     5  
Foreign exchange losses – net
    (306 )     (459 )     153       (33 )
Other income – net
    7,373       3,012       4,361       145  
 
                               
Total
    8,848       5,339       3,509       66  
 
                               

Other income increased by Php3,509 million, or 66%, to Php8,848 million in the first nine months of 2016 from Php5,339 million in the same period in 2015 primarily due to the combined effects of the following:
(i) higher other income – net by Php4,361 million due to higher gain on sale of Beacon shares by PCEV in 2016 as against the gain on sale of Meralco shares by Beacon in 2015; (ii) lower foreign exchange losses by Php153 million; (iii) an increase in interest income by Php117 million; (iv) an increase in financing costs by Php7 million; and (v) lower equity share in net earnings of associates by Php1,115 million mainly from Beacon and equity share net losses of VTI in the first nine months of 2016, partly offset by higher equity share in net earnings of Beta.

Net Income

As a result of the foregoing, our other business segment registered a net income of Php3,349 million in the first nine months of 2016, a decrease of Php1,818 million, or 35%, from Php5,167 million in the same period in 2015.

Core Income

Our other business segment’s core income amounted to Php9,081 million in the first nine months of 2016, an increase of Php3,421 million, or 60%, as compared with Php5,660 million in the same period in 2015 mainly as a result of higher other income and lower cash operating expenses.

Liquidity and Capital Resources

The following table shows our consolidated cash flows for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015, as well as our consolidated capitalization and other consolidated selected financial data as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015:

                         
    For the nine months ended September 30,
    2016   2015
            (in millions)        
 
          (Unaudited)        
Cash Flows
                       
Net cash flows provided by operating activities
    33,277               47,796  
Net cash flows used in investing activities
    (17,673 )             (18,451 )
Capital expenditures
    26,131               23,297  
Net cash flows used in financing activities
    (35,947 )             (22,596 )
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents
    (20,060 )             7,243  
 
  September 30,           December 31,
 
                       
 
    2016               2015  
 
                       
 
          (in millions)        
 
  (Unaudited)   (Audited)
Capitalization
                       
Long-term portion of interest-bearing financial liabilities – net of current portion:
                       
Long-term debt
    128,120               143,982  
Obligations under finance lease
    1                
             
 
    128,121               143,982  
             
Current portion of interest-bearing financial liabilities:
                       
Long-term debt maturing within one year
    32,761               16,910  
Obligations under finance lease maturing within one year
                  1  
             
 
    32,761               16,911  
             
Total interest-bearing financial liabilities
    160,882               160,893  
Total equity attributable to equity holders of PLDT
    104,531               113,608  
             
 
    265,413               274,501  
             
Other Selected Financial Data
                       
Total assets
    452,943               455,095  
Property and equipment
    198,495               195,782  
Cash and cash equivalents
    26,395               46,455  
Short-term investments
    1,670               1,429  
             

Our consolidated cash and cash equivalents and short-term investments totaled Php28,065 million as at September 30, 2016. Principal sources of consolidated cash and cash equivalents in the first nine months of 2016 were cash flows from operating activities amounting to Php33,277 million, proceeds from disposal of investment in associates and joint ventures amounting to Php17,000 million, proceeds from availment of long-term debt of Php14,869 million, dividends received of Php4,409 million, proceeds from disposal of property and equipment of Php1,357 million and interest received of Php748 million. These funds were used principally for: (1) capital expenditures, including capitalized interest, of Php26,131 million; (2) cash dividend payments of Php22,899 million; (3) debt principal and interest payments of Php16,549 million and Php5,184 million, respectively; (4) payment for purchase of investment in joint ventures and associates by Php13,451 million; (5) reductions to capital expenditures under long-term financing of Php5,397 million; and (6) payment for purchase of available-for-sale investments of Php1,000 million; and (7) settlement of derivative financial instruments of Php676 million.

Our consolidated cash and cash equivalents and short-term investments totaled Php35,063 million as at September 30, 2015. Principal sources of consolidated cash and cash equivalents for the nine months ended September 30, 2015 were cash flows from operating activities amounting to Php47,796 million, proceeds from availment of long-term debt of Php30,867 million, dividends received of Php5,544 million, interest received of Php712 million and net proceeds from redemption of investments in debt securities of Php58 million. These funds were used principally for: (1) dividend payments of Php32,649 million; (2) capital outlays, including capitalized interest, of Php23,297 million; (3) debt principal and interest payments of Php13,550 million and Php4,223 million, respectively; (4) reductions to capital expenditures under long-term financing of Php2,208 million; (5) payment for purchase of investment in joint ventures and associates of Php955 million; (6) settlement of derivative financial instruments of Php535 million; and (7) net payment for purchase of short-term investments of Php465 million.

Operating Activities

Our consolidated net cash flows provided by operating activities decreased by Php14,519 million, or 30%, to Php33,277 million in the first nine months of 2016 from Php47,796 million in the same period in 2015, primarily due to higher level of settlement of accounts payable and other liabilities, lower collection efficiency, lower operating income and higher prepayments, partially offset by lower pension contribution and lower corporate taxes paid.

Cash flows provided by operating activities of our wireless business decreased by Php20,107 million, or 59%, to Php13,760 million in the first nine months of 2016 from Php33,867 million in the same period in 2015 primarily due to lower operating income, lower collection efficiency, higher level of settlement of accounts payable and other liabilities, and higher prepayments, partially offset by lower pension contribution and lower corporate taxes paid. Cash flows provided by operating activities of our fixed line business increased by Php6,338 million, or 44%, to Php20,745 million in the first nine months of 2016 from Php14,407 million in the same period in 2015, primarily due to higher operating income, lower level of settlement of accounts payable and other liabilities, and lower pension contribution, partly offset by lower collection efficiency. Cash flows used in operating activities of our other business amounted to Php858 million in the first nine months of 2016 from Php86 million in the same period in 2015 due to operating loss in the first nine months of 2016 and higher level of settlement of other liabilities, partially offset by higher collection efficiency.

Investing Activities

Consolidated net cash flows used in investing activities amounted to Php17,673 million in the first nine months of 2016, a decrease of Php778 million, or 4%, from Php18,451 million in the same period in 2015, primarily due to the combined effects of the following: (1) proceeds from disposal of PCEV’s investment in Beacon by Php17,000 million; (2) higher proceeds from disposal of property and equipment by Php1,117 million; (3) lower net payment for purchase of short-term investments by Php318 million; (4) higher net payment for purchase of available-for-sale investments by Php998 million; (5) lower dividends received by Php1,135 million; (6) higher capital expenditures by Php2,834 million; and (7) higher payment for purchase of investment in joint ventures and associates by Php12,496 million specifically for the purchase of San Miguel Corporation, or SMC’s, telecommunications business.

Our consolidated capital expenditures, including capitalized interest, in the first nine months of 2016 totaled Php26,131 million, an increase of Php2,834 million, or 12%, as compared with Php23,297 million in the same period in 2015, primarily due to Smart Group’s and PLDT’s higher capital spending. Smart Group’s capital spending, increased by Php1,496 million, or 9%, to Php19,026 million in the first nine months of 2016 from Php17,530 million in the same period in 2015, primarily focused on expanding 3G, 4G and LTE coverage and reach, as well as capacity and service enhancements. PLDT’s capital spending increased by Php565 million, or 11%, to Php5,619 million in the first nine months of 2016 from Php5,054 million in the same period in 2015. The capex spending was used to finance the continuous facility roll-out and expansion of our domestic fiber optic network, cable fortification and resiliency in various locations and acquisition of new platforms to complement introduction of new products and services, as well as the Fibr roll-out to several areas and expansion of our data center business. The balance represented other subsidiaries’ capital spending.

As part of our growth strategy, we may continue to make acquisitions and investments in companies or businesses whenever we deem such acquisitions and investments will contribute to our growth.

Financing Activities

On a consolidated basis, cash flows used in financing activities amounted to Php35,947 million in the first nine months of 2016, an increase of Php13,351 million, or 59%, from Php22,596 million in the same period in 2015, resulting largely from the combined effects of the following: (1) lower proceeds from availment of long-term debt by Php15,998 million; (2) higher settlement of capital expenditures under long-term financing by Php3,189 million; (3) higher payments of long-term debt by Php2,999 million; (4) higher interest payments by Php961 million; (5) higher settlement of derivative financial instruments of Php141 million; and (6) lower cash dividends paid by Php9,750 million.

Debt Financing

Proceeds from availment of long-term debt for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 amounted to Php14,869 million, mainly from PLDT’s and Smart’s drawings related to the financing of our capital expenditure requirements and refinancing maturing loan obligations. Payments of principal and interest on our total debt amounted to Php16,549 million and Php5,184 million, respectively, for the nine months ended September 30, 2016.

Our consolidated long-term debt decreased by Php11 million to Php160,881 million as at September 30, 2016 from Php160,892 million as at December 31, 2015 primarily due to debt amortizations and prepayments, partly offset by drawings from our long-term facilities and the depreciation of the Philippine peso relative to the U.S. dollar. As at September 30, 2016, the long-term debt levels of Smart increased by 7% to Php66,193 million and PLDT’s long-term debt level increased to Php94,240 million, while DMPI’s decreased by 91% to Php448 million, as compared with December 31, 2015.

On March 22, 2016, PLDT signed a US$25 million term loan facility agreement with NTT Finance Corporation, to finance capital expenditures and/or refinance existing loan obligations, the proceeds of which were utilized for network expansion and improvement programs. The loan was fully drawn on March 30, 2016. The amount of US$25 million, or Php1,202 million, net of unamortized debt issuance cost remained outstanding as at September 30, 2016.

On July 1, 2016, PLDT signed a Php6,000 million term loan facility with Metropolitan Bank and Trust Company, or Metrobank, to partially finance capital expenditures and/or refinance its existing loan obligations, the proceeds of which will be utilized for its service improvements and expansion programs. The amount of Php3,000 million was partially drawn on August 30, 2016. The amount of Php2,985 million, net of debt issuance cost remained outstanding as at September 30, 2016. The remaining Php3,000 million was fully drawn on November 10, 2016.

On July 1, 2016, PLDT signed a Php3,000 million term loan facility with Metrobank to partially finance capital expenditures and/or refinance its existing loan obligations, the proceeds of which will be utilized for its service improvements and expansion programs.

On July 14, 2016, PLDT signed a Php8,000 million term loan facility with Security Bank Corporation to partially finance capital expenditures and/or refinance its existing loan obligations, the proceeds of which will be utilized for its service improvements and expansion programs.

On September 20, 2016, PLDT signed a Php6,500 million term loan facility with Bank of the Philippine Islands to partially finance capital expenditures and/or refinance its existing loan obligations, the proceeds of which will be utilized for its service improvements and expansion programs. The amount of Php3,500 million was partially drawn on November 2, 2016.

On September 28, 2016, Smart signed a Php3,000 million term loan facility with Banco De Oro to partially finance capital expenditures and/or refinance its existing loan obligations, the proceeds of which will be utilized for its service improvements and expansion programs. The amount of Php3,000 million was fully drawn on October 5, 2016.

On September 28, 2016, Smart signed a Php5,400 million term loan facility with Union Bank of the Philippines to partially finance capital expenditures and/or refinance its existing loan obligations, the proceeds of which will be utilized for its service improvements and expansion programs. The amount of Php2,400 million was partially drawn on October 24, 2016.

On October 14, 2016, PLDT signed a Php5,300 million term loan facility agreement with the Bank of the Philippine Islands to finance capital expenditures and/or refinance existing loan obligations, the proceeds of which will be utilized for its service improvements and expansion programs.

On October 27, 2016, Smart signed a Php2,500 million term loan facility agreement with China Banking Corporation to finance its capital expenditures.

On October 28, 2016, Smart signed a Php4,000 million term loan facility agreement with Security Bank Corporation to finance capital expenditures and refinance maturing debt.

Approximately Php87,279 million principal amount of our consolidated outstanding long-term debt as at September 30, 2016 is scheduled to mature over the period from 2016 to 2020. Of this amount, Php49,829 million is attributable to PLDT, Php37,002 million to Smart and Php448 million to DMPI.

For a complete discussion of our long-term debt, see Note 21 – Interest-bearing Financial Liabilities – Long-term Debt to the accompanying unaudited consolidated financial statements.

Debt Covenants

Our consolidated debt instruments contain restrictive covenants, including covenants that require us to comply with specified financial ratios and other financial tests, calculated in conformity with PFRS, at relevant measurement dates, principally at the end of each quarterly period. We have complied with all of our maintenance financial ratios as required under our loan covenants and other debt instruments. Furthermore, certain of DMPI’s debt instruments contain provisions wherein DMPI may be declared in default in case of a change in control in DMPI.

As at September 30, 2016 and 2015, we are in compliance with all of our debt covenants.

See Note 21 – Interest-bearing Financial Liabilities – Debt Covenants to the accompanying unaudited consolidated financial statements for a detailed discussion of our debt covenants.

Financing Requirements

We believe that our available cash, including cash flow from operations, will provide sufficient liquidity to fund our projected operating and debt service requirements for the next 12 months.

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

There are no off-balance sheet arrangements that have or are reasonably likely to have any current or future effect on our financial position, results of operations, cash flows, changes in stockholders’ equity, liquidity, capital expenditures or capital resources that are material to investors.

Equity Financing

On August 5, 2014, the PLDT Board of Directors approved the amendment of our dividend policy, increasing the dividend payout rate to 75% from 70% of our core earnings per share as regular dividends. In declaring dividends, we take into consideration the interest of our shareholders, as well as our working capital, capital expenditures and debt servicing requirements. The retention of earnings may be necessary to meet the funding requirements of our business expansion and development programs. However, in the event that no investment opportunities arise, we may consider the option of returning additional cash to our shareholders in the form of special dividends of up to the balance of our core earnings or to undertake share buybacks.  We were able to pay out approximately 100% of our core earnings for seven consecutive years from 2007 to 2013, approximately 90% of our core earnings for 2014 and 75% of our core earnings for 2015. In view of our current elevated capital expenditures to support build-out of resilient and reliable data network, lower EBITDA primarily due to higher subsidies to grow the data business and defend market share and the resources required to support the transaction with SMC, we have lowered our regular dividend payout to 60% of core income. In the event no investment opportunities arise, we may consider the option of returning additional cash to our shareholders in the form of special dividends or share buybacks. The accumulated equity in the net earnings of our subsidiaries, which form part of our retained earnings, are not available for distribution unless realized in the form of dividends from such subsidiaries.

Our subsidiaries pay dividends subject to the requirements of applicable laws and regulations and availability of unrestricted retained earnings, without any restriction imposed by the terms of contractual agreements. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the subsidiaries of PLDT may, at any time, declare and pay such dividends depending upon the results of operations and future projects and plans, the respective subsidiary’s earnings, cash flow, financial condition, capital investment requirements and other factors.

Consolidated cash dividend payments in the first nine months of 2016 amounted to Php22,899 million as compared with Php32,649 million paid to shareholders in the same period in 2015.

The following table shows the dividends declared to shareholders from the earnings for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015:

                                                                 
    Date   Amount
Earnings   Approved   Record   Payable           Per share           Total Declared
                            (in millions, except per share amount)        
2016
                                                               
Common
                                                               
Regular Dividend
  August 2, 2016   August 16, 2016   September 1, 2016                     49.00               10,587  
Preferred
                                                               
Series IV Cumulative Non- convertible Redeemable Preferred Stock(1)
  January 26, 2016   February 24, 2016   March 15, 2016                                   12  
 
  May 3, 2016   May 24, 2016   June 15, 2016                                   12  
 
  August 2, 2016   August 18, 2016   September 15, 2016                                   12  
10% Cumulative Convertible Preferred Stock
  Various   Various   Various                     1.00                
Voting Preferred Stock
  February 29, 2016   March 30, 2016   April 15, 2016                                   3  
 
  June 14, 2016   June 30, 2016   July 15, 2016                                   3  
 
  August 30, 2016   September 20, 2016   October 15, 2016                                   2  
Charged to Retained Earnings
                                                            10,631  
                                                     
2015
                                                               
Common
                                                               
Regular Dividend
  August 4, 2015   August 27, 2015   September 25, 2015(2)                   65.00   14,044
Preferred
                                                               
10% Cumulative Convertible Preferred Stock
  May 5, 2015   May 19, 2015   May 30, 2015                     1.00                
Series IV Cumulative Non- convertible Redeemable Preferred Stock(1)
  January 27, 2015   February 26, 2015   March 15, 2015                                   12  
 
  May 5, 2015   May 26, 2015   June 15, 2015                                   12  
 
  August 4, 2015   August 20, 2015   September 15, 2015                                     13  
Voting Preferred Stock
  March 3, 2015   March 19, 2015   April 15, 2015                                   2  
 
  June 9, 2015   June 26, 2015   July 15, 2015                                   3  
 
  August 25, 2015   September 15, 2015   October 15, 2015                                   2  
Charged to Retained Earnings
                                                          14,088
                                                     

    (1) Dividends were declared based on total amount paid up.

    (2) Payment was moved to September 28, 2015 in view of Proclamation No. 1128, Series of 2015, dated September 15, 2015, declaring September 25, 2015 a regular holiday.

See Note 20 – Equity to the accompanying unaudited consolidated financial statements for further details.

Contractual Obligations and Commercial Commitments

Contractual Obligations

For a discussion of our consolidated contractual undiscounted obligations as at September 30, 2016 and 2015, see Note 28 – Financial Assets and Liabilities – Liquidity Risks to the accompanying unaudited consolidated financial statements.

Commercial Commitments

Our outstanding consolidated commercial commitments, in the form of letters of credit, amounted to Php13,376 million and Php46 million as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively. These commitments will expire within one year. The amount of Php13,376 million as at September 30, 2016 includes standby letters of credit issued in relation with PLDT’s acquisition of the telecommunications business of SMC. 

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risks

Our operations are exposed to various risks, including liquidity risk, foreign currency exchange risk, interest rate risk, credit risk and capital management risk. The importance of managing these risks has significantly increased in light of considerable change and continuing volatility in both the Philippine and international financial markets. With a view to managing these risks, we have incorporated financial risk management functions in our organization, particularly in our treasury operations, equity issuances and sale of certain assets.

For further discussions of these risks, see Note 28 – Financial Assets and Liabilities to the accompanying unaudited consolidated financial statements.

The following table sets forth the estimated consolidated fair values of our financial assets and liabilities recognized as at September 30, 2016 and June 30, 2016 other than those whose carrying amounts are reasonable approximations of fair values:

                 
    Fair Values
    September 30,   June 30,
    2016   2016
    (Unaudited)
    (in millions)
Noncurrent Financial Assets
               
Investments in debt securities and other long-term investments – net of current portion
    751       972  
Advances and other noncurrent assets – net of current portion
    7,855       7,797  
 
               
Total noncurrent financial assets
    8,606       8,769  
 
               
Noncurrent Financial Liabilities
               
Interest-bearing financial liabilities
    131,650       132,250  
Customers’ deposits
    1,956       1,936  
Deferred credits and other noncurrent liabilities
    14,259       14,757  
 
               
Total noncurrent financial liabilities
    147,865       148,943  
 
               

The following table sets forth the amount of gains (losses) recognized for the financial assets and liabilities for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and the six months ended June 30, 2016:

                 
    September 30,   June 30,
    2016   2016
    (Unaudited)        
    (in millions)
Profit and Loss
               
Interest income
    743       472  
Gains (losses) on derivative financial instruments – net
    511       (178 )
Accretion on financial liabilities
    (176 )     (127 )
Interest on loans and other related items
    (5,507 )     (3,672 )
Other Comprehensive Income
               
Net fair value losses on cash flow hedges – net of tax
    (281 )     (328 )
Net gains available-for-sale financial investments – net of tax
    1,317       5  
 
               

Impact of Inflation and Changing Prices

Inflation can be a significant factor in the Philippine economy, and we are continually seeking ways to minimize its impact. The average inflation rate in the Philippines was 1.6% in each of the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015. Moving forward, we currently expect inflation to remain low.

PART II – OTHER INFORMATION

Arbitration Case between Smart and Harris Caprock Communications, Inc. (U.S.A.), or HCC, and Caprock Communications International Limited (United Kingdom), or CCI, together Claimants

In December 2011, Smart engaged the services of HCC and CCI for the expansion of its SmartLink GSM. Subsequently, the parties executed three agreements: (i) Agreement for Bandwidth and Teleport Services with CCI, a wholly-owned subsidiary of HCC, dated May 21, 2012, or the Bandwidth Agreement; (ii) Agreement for Warehousing and Installation Services with CCI dated August 27, 2012, or the Installation Agreement; and (iii) Agreement for the Sale and Purchase of Equipment with HCC dated September 27, 2012.

HCC failed to deliver the equipment in accordance with the delivery schedule and delivered defective equipment. Claimants also failed to activate Phase 1 of the satellite beams and installed only 13 units of antennas and beams. Thus, Smart issued a Termination Notice dated December 15, 2012 for all the three agreements. In their letter dated December 18, 2012, Claimants requested Smart to keep the contracts alive. Thus, Smart issued its commercial response on December 29, 2012. Claimants requested Smart to withdraw the termination notice; otherwise, they will claim damages, premised on their position that Smart cannot terminate the contracts for convenience. Smart did not withdraw the termination notice. The parties failed to reach an amicable settlement with Claimants claiming US$35 million in damages, while Smart wanted reimbursement of its deposit.

On October 19, 2016, a Singapore International Arbitration Center – Arbitral Tribunal issued a Final Partial Award adjudging Smart liable to the Claimants in the amount of US$6.5 million, consisting of equipment delivered to Smart, liability to third parties, performance bond, monthly service fees, loss of profit, installation fees, and interest.

The Arbitral Award does not yet include costs. Based on their submission, Claimants demand payment of approximately US$1.6 million for costs which include legal fees, professional fees for experts, fees for party witnesses, and other expenses relating to the arbitration. Management is still evaluating available legal options.

Amendments to the By-Laws of PLDT

On August 30, 2016, the Board of Directors, exercising its own power, and the authority duly delegated to it by the stockholders of PLDT to amend the By-Laws, authorized and approved the following amendments:
(i) change in the name of the Company from Philippine Long Distance Telephone Company to PLDT Inc. both in the heading and Section 1, Article XV of the By-Laws; and (ii) change in the logo of the Company as stated in Section 1, Article XV of the By-Laws from desk telephone to the current triangle-shaped logo of the corporation. The Certificate of Amendment and Amended By-Laws have been filed with the Philippine SEC on November 8, 2016.

Transfer of DMPI’s Sun Postpaid cellular and broadband assets to Smart

On August 1, 2016, the BOD of Smart and DMPI approved the sale/transfer of DMPI’s trademark and subscribers including all of DMPI’s assets, rights and obligations directly or indirectly connected to its postpaid cellular and broadband operations.  The transfer is in line with the group’s objective to integrate the wireless business into a simplified business operation that will provide flexibility to offer new bundled/converged products and enhanced customer experience.  The effective date of the transfer was November 1, 2016.

Sale of Customer Relationship Management business by Asia Outsourcing Gamma Limited, or AOGL

On July 22, 2016, AOGL entered into a Sale and Purchase Agreement, or SPA, with Relia Inc., one of the largest BPO companies in Japan, relating to the acquisition of AOGL’s Customer Relationship Management business under the legal entity, SPi CRM, Inc. and Infocom Technologies, Inc., wholly-owned subsidiaries of SPi Technologies, Inc., for an enterprise value of US$181 million.  The transaction was completed on September 30, 2016. AOGL is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Beta which is, in turn, owned 73.29% by CVC Capital Partners, one of the world’s leading private equity and investment advisory firms, and 18.32% by PLDT through its indirect subsidiary, PLDT Global Investments Corporation, or PGIC.

Investments of PLDT in VTI,  Bow Arken Holdings Company, or Bow Arken, and Brightshare Holdings, Inc., or Brightshare 

On May 30, 2016, the PLDT Board approved the Company’s acquisition of 50% equity interest, including outstanding advances, in the telecommunications business of SMC with Globe Telecom Inc., or Globe, acquiring the remaining 50% interest. On the same date, PLDT and Globe executed: (i) a SPA with SMC to acquire the entire outstanding capital, including outstanding advances, in VTI (and the other subsidiaries of VTI), which holds SMC’s telecommunications assets through its subsidiaries, or the VTI Transaction; and
(ii) separate SPAs with the owners of two other entities, Bow Arken (parent company of New Century Telecoms, Inc.) and Brightshare (parent company of eTelco, Inc.), which separately hold additional spectrum frequencies through their respective subsidiaries, or the Bow Arken Transaction and Brightshare Transaction, respectively.

Total consideration for the acquisition is Php52.8 billion representing the purchase price for the equity interest and advances of previous owners to VTI, Bow Arken and Brightshare. The consideration will be paid in three tranches: 50% was paid upon signing of the SPAs on May 30, 2016, 25% is payable on December 1, 2016 and the final 25% is payable on May 30, 2017, subject to the fulfillment of certain conditions. The second and final payments are secured by irrevocable standby letters of credit. The SPAs contain a price adjustment mechanism wherein an adjustment to the consideration for the acquisition will be agreed among PLDT, Globe and previous owners based on the results of confirmatory due diligence procedures to be jointly performed by PLDT and Globe after May 30, 2016. Discussion on the result of the due diligence procedure is ongoing as at September 30, 2016.

PLDT and Globe caused the relevant subsidiaries of the acquired companies to relinquish certain radio frequencies in the 700MHz, 850MHz, 2500MHz and 3500MHz bands and return these radio frequencies to the government through the National Telecommunications Commission, or NTC. PLDT, Globe and Bell Telecommunications Philippines, Inc., or Belltel, a subsidiary of VTI, also requested for NTC’s approval of their co-use of certain frequency bands assigned to Belltel. Both the relinquishment/return of certain frequencies and separate co-use arrangements between Smart and Belltel and Globe and Belltel each covering specific frequencies assigned to Belltel have been approved by the NTC, which has regulatory and supervisory powers over the parties to the transactions and with mandate to ensure a healthy competitive environment in the telecommunications industry.

Notice of Transaction filed with the Philippine Competition Commission, or the Commission

On May 30, 2016, each of PLDT, Globe and SMC submitted notices of VTI, Bow Arken and Brightshare Transactions (respectively, the VTI Notice, the Bow Arken Notice and the Brightshare Notice and collectively, the Notices) to the Commission pursuant to the Philippine Competition Act, or PCA, and Circular No. 16-001 and Circular No. 16-002 issued by the Commission, or the Circulars. As stated in the Circulars, upon receipt by the Commission of the requisite notices, each of the said transactions shall be deemed approved in accordance with the Circulars.

Subsequently, on June 7, 2016, PLDT and the other parties to the said transactions received separate letters dated June 6 and 7, 2016 from the Commission which essentially stated, that: (a) with respect to VTI Transaction, the VTI Notice is deficient and defective in form and substance, therefore, the VTI Transaction is not “deemed approved” by the Commission, and that the missing key terms of the transaction are critical since the Commission considers certain agreements as prohibited and illegal; and (b) with respect to the Bow Arken and Brightshare Transactions, the compulsory notification under the Circulars does not apply and that even assuming the Circulars apply, the Bow Arken Notice and the Brightshare Notice are deficient and defective in form and substance.

On June 10, 2016, PLDT submitted its response to the Commission’s letter articulating its position that the VTI Notice is adequate, complete and sufficient and compliant with the requirement under the Circulars, and does not contain false material information; as such, the VTI Transaction enjoys the benefit of Section 23 of the PCA. Therefore, the VTI Transaction is deemed approved and cannot be subject to retroactive review by the Commission. Moreover, the parties have taken all necessary steps, including the relinquishment/return of certain frequencies and co-use of the remaining frequencies by Smart and Belltel and Globe and Belltel as discussed above, to ensure that the VTI Transaction will not substantially prevent, restrict or lessen competition to violate the PCA. Nevertheless, in the spirit of cooperation and for transparency, the parties voluntarily submitted to the Commission, among others, copies of the SPAs for the Commission’s information and reference.

In a letter dated June 17, 2016, the Commission required the parties to further submit additional documents relevant to the co-use arrangement and the frequencies subject thereto, as well as other definitive agreements relating to the VTI Transaction. It also disregarded the deemed approved status of the VTI Transaction in violation of the Circulars which the Commission itself issued, and insisted that it will conduct a full review, if not investigation of the said transaction under the different operative provisions of the PCA.

Legal Recourse to the Court of Appeals, or the CA

On July 12, 2016, PLDT filed before the CA a Petition for Certiorari and Prohibition (With Urgent Application for the Issuance of a Temporary Restraining Order and/or Writ of Preliminary Injunction), or the Petition, against the Commission. The Petition seeks to enjoin the Commission from proceeding with the review of the acquisition by PLDT and Globe of the telecommunications business of SMC and performing any act which challenges or assails the “deemed approved” status of the transaction. On July 19, 2016, the 12th Division of the CA issued a Resolution directing the Office of the Solicitor General, or the OSG, to file its Comment within a non-extensible period of 10 days from notice and show cause why the Petition should not be granted. On August 11, 2016, the Commission through the OSG, filed its Comment to the Petition (With Opposition to Petitioner’s Application for a Writ of Preliminary Injunction.) On August 19, 2016, PLDT filed its Reply to Respondent Commission’s Comment. On August 26, 2016, the CA 12th Division issued a Writ of Preliminary Injunction enjoining and directing the respondent Commission, their officials and agents, or persons acting for and in their behalf, to cease and desist from conducting further proceedings for the pre-acquisition review and/or investigation of the subject acquisition based on its Letters dated June 7, 2016 and June 17, 2016 during the effectivity hereof and until further orders are issued by the Court. On September 20, 2016, the Commission through the OSG, filed a Motion for Reconsideration of the CA’s Resolution dated July 19, 2016.  PLDT filed an Opposition to the Commission’s Motion for Reconsideration on October 24, 2016. In a Resolution promulgated on October 19, 2016, the CA’s 12th Division: (i) accepted the consolidation of Globe’s petition versus the Commission (CA G.R. SP No. 146538) into PLDT’s petition versus the Commission (CA G.R. SP No. 146528) with the right of replacement; (ii) admitted the Comment dated October 4, 2016 filed by the Commission; (iii) referred to the Commission for Comment (within 10 days from notice) PLDT’s Urgent Motion for the Issuance of a Gag Order dated September 30, 2016; and (iv) ordered all parties to submit simultaneous memoranda within a non-extendible period of 15 days from notice. Thereafter, with or without their respective memorandum, the instant cases shall be submitted for decision.

VTI’s Tender Offer for the Minority Stockholders’ Shares in Liberty Telecom Holdings, Inc.

On August 18, 2016, the Board of Directors of VTI approved the voluntary tender offer to acquire the common shares of LIB, a subsidiary of VTI, which are held by the remaining minority shareholders, and the intention to delist the shares of LIB from the PSE.

On August 24, 2016, VTI, owner of 87.12% of the outstanding common shares of LIB, undertook the tender offer to purchase up to 165.88 million common shares owned by the remaining minority shareholders, representing 12.82% of LIB’s common stock, at a price of Php2.20 per share. The tender offer period ended on October 20, 2016, the extended expiration date, with over 107 million shares tendered, representing approximately 8.3% of LIB’s issued and outstanding common shares. The tendered shares were crossed at the PSE on November 4, 2016, with the settlement on November 9, 2016.

Following the conclusion of the tender offer, VTI now owns more than 95% of the issued and outstanding common shares, and 99.1% of the total issued and outstanding capital stock of LIB.

The tender offer was undertaken in compliance with the PSE’s requirements for the voluntary delisting of LIB common shares from the PSE. The voluntary delisting of LIB is expected to occur on November 21, 2016.

Sale of PCEV’s Beacon Shares to Metro Pacific Investment Corporation, or MPIC

On May 30, 2016, as approved by the Board, PCEV entered into a Share Purchase Agreement with MPIC to sell its 646 million shares of common stock and 458 million shares of preferred stock of Beacon, representing approximately 25% equity interest in Beacon, to MPIC for a total consideration of Php26,200 million. MPIC settled a portion of the consideration amounting to Php17,000 million immediately upon signing of the agreement and the balance of Php9,200 million will be paid in annual installments until June 2020. Consequently, PCEV realized a portion of the deferred gain amounting to Php4,962 million. After the sale, PCEV’s equity ownership in Beacon was reduced from 50% to 25% while MPIC’s interest increased to 75%. MPIC agreed that for as long as: (i) PCEV owns at least 20% of the outstanding capital stock of Beacon; or
(ii) the purchase price has not been fully paid by MPIC, PCEV shall retain the right to vote 50% of the outstanding capital stock of Beacon.

PCEV’s effective interest in Meralco, through Beacon, was reduced to 8.74%, while MPIC’s effective interest in Meralco, through its direct ownership in Meralco shares and through Beacon, increased to 41.22%. There is no change in the aggregate joint interest of MPIC and Beacon in Meralco which remains at 49.96%.

Beacon effectively owns 394 million Meralco common shares representing approximately 34.96% effective ownership in Meralco with a carrying value of Php83,657 million and market value of Php122,316 million based on quoted price of Php310 per share as at June 30, 2016 and carrying value of Php87,831 million and market value of Php126,099 million based on quoted price of Php320 per share as at December 31, 2015.

PCEV’s Additional Investment in Beacon Class “B” Preferred Shares

On May 30, 2016, the Board of Directors of Beacon approved the increase in authorized capital stock of Beacon from Php5,000 million to Php6,000 million divided into 3,000 million common shares with a par value of Php1.00 per share, 2,000 million Class “A” preferred shares with a par value of Php1.00 per share and 1,000 million new Class “B” preferred shares with a par value of Php1.00 per share. On August 10, 2016, the SEC approved the increase in Beacon’s authorized capital and issuance of new class of preferred shares.

Class “B” preferred shares of Beacon are non-voting, not convertible to common shares or any shares of any class of Beacon and have no pre-emptive rights to subscribe to any share or convertible debt, securities or warrants issued or sold by Beacon. The Class “B” preferred shares are entitled to liquidation preference and yearly cumulative dividends at the rate of 6% of the issue value subject to: (a) availability of unrestricted retained earnings; and (b) dividend payment will not violate any dividend restrictions imposed by Beacon’s bank creditors.

PCEV subscribed to 277 million Beacon Class “B” preferred shares for a total cash consideration of Php3,500 million. MPIC likewise subscribed to 277 million Beacon Class “B” preferred shares for a total cash consideration of Php3,500 million.

The amount raised from the subscription was used to fund the subscription to shares of common stock of Global Business Power Corporation, or Global Power, through Beacon Powergen Holdings, Inc., or Beacon Powergen, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Beacon.

On September 9, 2016, the Board of Directors of Beacon approved the redemption of 198 million Class “B” preferred shares held by PCEV at an aggregate redemption price equal to the aggregate issue price of Php2,500 million. On the same date, Beacon also declared cash dividends on the said preferred shares amounting to Php21 million. The redemption price and cash dividend were paid on September 30, 2016.

Beacon’s Acquisition of 56% of Global Business Power Corporation

On May 27, 2016, Beacon, through a wholly owned subsidiary Beacon Powergen, entered into a Share Purchase Agreement with GT Capital Holdings, Inc., to acquire an aggregate 56% of the issued share capital of Global Power for a total consideration of Php22,058 million. Beacon Powergen settled Php11,029 million upon closing and the balance via a vendor financing facility, which was replaced with a long-term bank debt in August 2016.

Global Power is the leading power supplier in Visayas with 852 MW of coal and diesel powered generating capacity at present, including 150 MW to commence operations later this year, and 670MW for further expansion.

After the acquisition, PCEV’s effective interest in Global Power, through Beacon, is 14%, while MPIC’s effective interest in Global Power, through Beacon, is 42%.

Amendments to the Articles of Incorporation of PLDT

On April 12, 2016 and June 14, 2016, the Board of Directors and stockholders, respectively, approved the following actions: (i) change in the name of the Company from Philippine Long Distance Telephone Company to PLDT Inc.; (ii) expansion of the purpose clause to expressly provide for such other purposes and powers incidental to or in furtherance of the primary purpose, including the power to do or engage in such activities required, necessary or expedient in the pursuit of lawful businesses or for the protection or benefit of the Company; and (iii) corresponding amendments to the First Article and Second Article of the Articles of Incorporation of the Company.

On July 29, 2016, the Amended Articles of Incorporation of the Company containing the aforementioned amendments was approved by the Philippine SEC.

Joint Venture Agreement between PLDT Capital and Hopscotch

On April 15, 2016, PLDT Capital Pte. Ltd., or PLDT Capital, and Gohopscotch, Inc., or Hopscotch, a Delaware corporation, entered into a Joint Venture Agreement, or JVA, to market and exclusively distribute Hopscotch’s mobile solutions in Southeast Asia. The Hopscotch mobile-platform technology allows for the rapid development of custom mobile applications for sports teams, live events, and brands to not only create a memorable and monetizable fan experience but also increase mobile advertising revenue. As a vehicle to execute the JVA, PLDT Capital incorporated Gohopscotch Southeast Asia Pte. Ltd., a Singapore company, on March 1, 2016.

eInnovations’ Investment in ECommerce Pay (formerly mePay Global)

On January 6, 2015, PLDT, through eInnovations Holdings Pte. Ltd, or eInnovations, entered into a JVA with Rocket, pursuant to which the two parties agreed to form ECommerce Pay, of which each partner holds a 50% equity interest.  ECommerce Pay is a global joint venture company for payment services with a focus on emerging markets.

On July 30, 2015, eInnovations became a 50% shareholder of ECommerce Pay and invested 1.2 million into ECommerce Pay on August 11, 2015.

On February 3, 2016, eInnovations further contributed its subsidiary ePay Investments Pte. Ltd., or ePay, including the intellectual property, platforms and business operations of its mobile-first platform, PayMaya, as had been agreed in the JVA.  Rocket contributed, among other things, its equity in Paymill Holding GmbH and Payleven Holding GmbH, which operated via its subsidiaries, payment platforms for high growth, small-and-medium sized e-commerce businesses. 

Consequently, in February 2016, the ownership of ePay and its subsidiaries, or the ePay Group, was transferred from eInnovations to ECommerce Pay and PLDT ceased to recognize the ePay Group as its subsidiary.

On July 29, 2016, Rocket and PLDT via eInnovations agreed to end the joint venture. eInnovations agreed to give up its 50% ownership and all claims in connection with Ecommerce Pay, in return regaining complete control of ePay, including the intellectual property, platforms and business operations of its mobile-first platform, PayMaya.

PLDT and Rocket have decided to unwind the joint venture to better focus on their respective areas of operation and current priorities. Both continue to explore areas of possible future collaboration.

PLDT Online’s Investment in iFlix Limited, or iFlix

On April 23, 2015, PLDT Online Investments Pte. Ltd., or PLDT Online, subscribed to a convertible note of iFlix, an internet TV service provider in Southeast Asia, for US$15 million, or Php686 million.  The convertible note was issued and paid on August 11, 2015. iFlix will use the funds to continue to roll out the iFlix subscription video-on-demand services across the Southeast Asian region, acquire rights to new content, and produce original programming to market to potential customers.

This investment is in line with our strategy to develop new revenue streams and to complement our present business by participating in the digital world beyond providing access and connectivity.

On March 10, 2016, the US$15 million convertible notes held by PLDT Online were converted into 20.7 million ordinary shares of iFlix after it completed a new round of funding led by Sky Plc, Europe’s leading entertainment company and the Indonesian company, Emtek Group, through its subsidiary, PT Surya Citra Media Tbk, or SCMA. PLDT Online’s shares account for the 7.5% of the total equity stock of iFlix.

Related Party Transactions

For a detailed discussion of the related party transactions, see Note 25 – Related Party Transactions to the accompanying unaudited consolidated financial statements.

ANNEX I – AGING OF ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE

The following table shows the aging of our consolidated receivables as at September 30, 2016:

                                         
                    3160   6190   Over 91
Type of Accounts Receivable   Total   Current   Days   Days   Days
            (in millions)        
Retail subscribers
    21,580       5,251       1,384       303       14,642  
Corporate subscribers
    10,920       2,318       1,573       832       6,197  
Foreign administrations
    5,995       933       575       460       4,027  
Domestic carriers
     789       334       54       69       332  
Dealers, agents and others
    8,042       3,456       810       434       3,342  
 
                                       
Total
    47,326       12,292       4,396       2,098       28,540  
 
                                       
Less: Allowance for doubtful accounts.
    21,188                                  
Total Receivables — net
    26,138                                  
 
                                       

6

ANNEX II – FINANCIAL SOUNDNESS INDICATORS

The following table shows our financial soundness indicators as at September 30, 2016 and 2015:

                 
    2016   2015
Current Ratio(1)
    0.40:1.0       0.52:1.0  
Net Debt to Equity Ratio(2)
    1.27:1.0       1.05:1.0  
Net Debt to EBITDA Ratio(3)
    2:15:1.0       1.56:1.0  
Total Debt to EBITDA Ratio(4)
    2:60:1.0       2.04:1.0  
Asset to Equity Ratio(5)
    4.33:1.0       3.93:1.0  
Interest Coverage Ratio(6)
    3.20:1.0       7.62:1.0  
Profit Margin(7)
    13 %     20 %
Return on Assets(8)
    3 %     7 %
Return on Equity(9)
    12 %     26 %
EBITDA Margin(10)
    38 %     44 %
 
               

(1) Current ratio is measured as current assets divided by current liabilities (including current portion – LTD, unearned revenues and mandatory tender option liability.)

  (2)   Net Debt to equity ratio is measured as total debt (long-term debt, including current portion and notes payable) less cash and cash equivalent and short-term investments divided by total equity attributable to equity holders of PLDT.

  (3)   Net Debt to EBITDA ratio is measured as total debt (long-term debt, including current portion and notes payable) less cash and cash equivalent and short-term investments divided by EBITDA for the 12 months average period.

  (4)   Total Debt to EBITDA ratio is measured as total debt (long-term debt, including current portion and notes payable) divided by EBITDA for the 12 months average period.

(5) Asset to equity ratio is measured as total assets divided by total equity attributable to equity holders of PLDT.

  (6)   Interest coverage ratio is measured by EBIT, or earnings before interest and taxes for the period, divided by total financing cost for the period.

(7) Profit margin is derived by dividing net income for the period with total revenues for the period.

(8) Return on assets is measured as net income for the period divided by average total assets.

(9) Return on Equity is measured as net income for the period divided by average total equity attributable to equity holders of PLDT.

(10) EBITDA margin is measured as EBITDA divided by service revenues for the 12 months average period.

EBITDA for the period is measured as net income excluding depreciation and amortization, amortization of intangible assets, asset impairment on noncurrent assets, financing cost, interest income, equity share in net earnings (losses) of associates and joint ventures, foreign exchange gains (losses) – net, gains (losses) on derivative financial instruments – net, provision for (benefit from) income tax and other income (expenses) – net for the period.

SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Regulation Code, the registrant has duly caused this report for the first nine months of 2016 to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 
Registrant: PLDT Inc.
Signature and Title:       /s/ Manuel V. Pangilinan     
 
Manuel V. Pangilinan
President and Chief Executive Officer
Signature and Title:       /s/ Anabelle Lim-Chua     
 
Anabelle Lim-Chua
Senior Vice President
(Principal Financial Officer)
Signature and Title:       /s/ June Cheryl A. Cabal-Revilla     
 
June Cheryl A. Cabal-Revilla
First Vice President
(Principal Accounting Officer)
Date: November 14, 2016

7

PLDT INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

AS AT SEPTEMBER 30, 2016 (UNAUDITED) AND DECEMBER 31, 2015 (AUDITED)
AND FOR THE NINE MONTHS ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2016 AND 2015 (UNAUDITED)

PLDT INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF FINANCIAL POSITION
(in million pesos)

                 
    As at    
    September 30,   As at December 31,
    2016   2015
    (Unaudited)   (Audited)
ASSETS
               
 
Noncurrent Assets
               
Property and equipment (Notes 9 and 22)
    198,495       195,782  
Investments in associates and joint ventures (Notes 10 and 25)
    56,080       48,703  
Available-for-sale financial investments (Notes 6, 11 and 28)
    12,647       15,711  
Investment in debt securities and other long-term investments – net of current portion (Notes 12 and 28)
    748       952  
Investment properties (Notes 6 and 13)
    1,864       1,825  
Goodwill and intangible assets (Notes 14 and 15)
    72,150       72,117  
Deferred income tax assets – net (Note 7)
    22,058       21,941  
Derivative financial assets – net of current portion (Note 28)
    270       145  
Prepayments – net of current portion (Note 19)
    5,517       3,475  
Advances and other noncurrent assets – net of current portion (Note 28)
    9,602       3,003  
 
               
Total Noncurrent Assets
    379,431       363,654  
 
               
Current Assets
               
Cash and cash equivalents (Note 16)
    26,395       46,455  
Short-term investments (Note 28)
    1,670       1,429  
Trade and other receivables (Note 17)
    26,138       24,898  
Inventories and supplies (Note 18)
    4,500       4,614  
Current portion of derivative financial assets (Note 28)
    198       26  
Current portion of investment in debt securities and other long-term investments (Note 12)
    253       51  
Current portion of prepayments (Note 19)
    6,094       5,798  
Current portion of advances and other noncurrent assets (Note 20)
    8,264       8,170  
 
               
Total Current Assets
    73,512       91,441  
 
               
TOTAL ASSETS
    452,943       455,095  
 
               
EQUITY AND LIABILITIES
               
 
Equity
               
Non-voting serial preferred stock (Notes 8 and 20)
    360       360  
Voting preferred stock (Note 20)
    150       150  
Common stock (Notes 8 and 20)
    1,093       1,093  
Treasury stock (Notes 8 and 20)
    (6,505 )     (6,505 )
Capital in excess of par value (Note 20)
    130,504       130,517  
Retained earnings (deficit) (Note 20)
    (643 )     6,195  
Other comprehensive loss (Note 6)
    (20,428 )     (18,202 )
Total Equity Attributable to Equity Holders of PLDT (Note 28)
    104,531       113,608  
Noncontrolling interests (Note 6)
    294       290  
 
               
TOTAL EQUITY
    104,825       113,898  
 
               

    See accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

8

PLDT INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF FINANCIAL POSITION (continued)
(in million pesos)

                 
    As at    
    September 30,   As at December 31,
    2016   2015
    (Unaudited)   (Audited)
Noncurrent Liabilities
               
Interest-bearing financial liabilities – net of current portion (Note 21)
    128,121       143,982  
Deferred income tax liabilities – net (Note 7)
    3,586       3,704  
Derivative financial liabilities – net of current portion (Note 28)
    311       736  
Customers’ deposits (Note 28)
    2,432       2,430  
Pension and other employee benefits (Note 26)
    11,344       10,197  
Deferred credits and other noncurrent liabilities (Notes 22 and 28)
    17,173       21,482  
 
               
Total Noncurrent Liabilities
    162,967       182,531  
 
               
Current Liabilities
               
Accounts payable (Note 23)
    48,495       52,679  
Accrued expenses and other current liabilities (Note 24)
    99,668       84,286  
Current portion of interest-bearing financial liabilities (Note 21)
    32,761       16,911  
Provision for claims and assessments (Notes 3 and 27)
    897       897  
Dividends payable (Notes 20 and 28)
    1,540       1,461  
Current portion of derivative financial liabilities (Note 28)
    483       306  
Income tax payable (Note 7)
    1,307       2,126  
 
               
Total Current Liabilities
    185,151       158,666  
TOTAL LIABILITIES
    348,118       341,197  
 
               
TOTAL EQUITY AND LIABILITIES
    452,943       455,095  
 
               

    See accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

9

PLDT INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED INCOME STATEMENTS
For the Nine Months Ended September 30, 2016 and 2015
(in million pesos, except earnings per common share amounts which are in pesos)

                                 
    Nine Months Ended   Three Months Ended
    September 30,   September 30,
    2016   2015   2016   2015
    (Unaudited)
REVENUES
                               
Service revenues (Notes 3 and 4)
    118,932       122,001       38,328       40,842  
Non-service revenues (Notes 3, 4 and 5)
    6,454       5,870       1,774       1,838  
 
                               
 
    125,386       127,871       40,102       42,680  
 
                               
EXPENSES
                               
Depreciation and amortization (Notes 3, 4 and 9)
    22,603       21,187       8,028       7,242  
Compensation and employee benefits (Notes 3, 5 and 26)
    15,078       16,376       5,014       5,061  
Cost of sales (Notes 5, 18 and 25)
    14,279       11,709       3,444       4,021  
Asset impairment (Notes 3, 4 and 5)
    12,914       2,662       2,570       955  
Repairs and maintenance (Notes 13, 18 and 25)
    11,346       11,271       3,753       3,819  
Interconnection costs
    7,102       7,637       2,268       2,448  
Professional and other contracted services (Note 25)
    6,689       6,049       2,316       2,076  
Selling and promotions (Note 25)
    6,441       7,379       2,194       2,322  
Rent (Notes 3 and 25)
    5,124       4,704       1,713       1,685  
Taxes and licenses (Note 27)
    3,008       2,843       935       667  
Insurance and security services (Note 25)
    1,291       1,349       377       435  
Communication, training and travel (Note 25)
    1,007       995       353       349  
Amortization of intangible assets (Notes 3, 4 and 15)
    821       805       277       263  
Other expenses
    771       831       205       296  
 
                               
 
    108,474       95,797       33,447       31,639  
 
                               
 
    16,912       32,074       6,655       11,041  
 
                               
OTHER INCOME (EXPENSES)
                               
Equity share in net earnings of associates and joint ventures (Notes 4 and 10)
    1,477       2,668       542       434  
Interest income (Notes 4 and 5)
    743       590       271       226  
Gains on derivative financial instruments – net (Notes 4 and 28)
    511       447       689       358  
Foreign exchange losses – net (Notes 4, 9 and 28)
    (1,434 )     (2,523 )     (1,511 )     (2,084 )
Financing costs – net (Notes 4 and 5)
    (5,430 )     (4,550 )     (1,810 )     (1,613 )
Other income – net (Notes 3, 4 and 13)
    9,381       3,987       192       158  
 
                               
 
    5,248        619       (1,627 )     (2,521 )
 
                               
INCOME BEFORE INCOME TAX (Note 4)
    22,160       32,693       5,028       8,520  
PROVISION FOR INCOME TAX (Notes 3, 4 and 7)
    6,260       7,338       1,614       1,914  
 
                               
NET INCOME (Note 4)
    15,900       25,355       3,414       6,606  
 
                               
ATTRIBUTABLE TO:
                               
Equity holders of PLDT (Notes 4 and 8)
    15,865       25,339       3,402       6,610  
Noncontrolling interests (Notes 4 and 8)
    35       16       12       (4 )
 
                               
 
    15,900       25,355       3,414       6,606  
 
                               
Earnings Per Share Attributable to Common Equity Holders of PLDT (Notes 4 and 8)
                               
Basic
    73.22       117.07       15.67       30.52  
Diluted
    73.22       117.07       15.67       30.52  
 
                               

See accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

10

PLDT INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
For the Nine Months Ended September 30, 2016 and 2015
(in million pesos)

                                 
    Nine Months Ended   Three Months Ended
    September 30,   September 30,
    2016   2015   2016   2015
    (Unaudited)
NET INCOME (Note 4)
    15,900       25,355       3,414       6,606  
OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS) – NET OF TAX (Note 6)
                               
Net gains (losses) on available-for-sale financial investments:
    1,317       (12,651 )     1,312       (4,927 )
Impairment recognized in profit or loss (Notes 3, 4, 5 and 11)
    5,381             (1 )      
Unrealized gains (losses) from changes in fair value recognized during the period (Note 11)
    (4,064 )     (12,650 )     1,313       (4,926 )
Income tax related to fair value adjustments charged directly to equity (Note 7)
          (1 )           (1 )
Share in the other comprehensive income (loss) of associates and joint ventures accounted for using the equity method (Note 10)
    151       51       (47 )      
Foreign currency translation differences of subsidiaries
    40       40       72       1  
Net transactions on cash flow hedges:
    (281 )     (289 )     47       (267 )
Net fair value gains (losses) on cash flow hedges (Note 28)
    (359 )     (394 )     98       (340 )
Income tax related to fair value adjustments charged directly to equity (Note 7)
    78       105       (51 )     73  
 
                               
Net other comprehensive income (loss) to be reclassified to profit or loss in subsequent periods
    1,227       (12,849 )     1,384       (5,193 )
 
                               
Revaluation increment on investment properties:
    (1 )     (1 )            
Depreciation of revaluation increment in investment properties transferred to property and equipment (Note 9)
    (2 )     (2 )     (1 )     (1 )
Income tax related to revaluation increment charged directly to equity (Note 7)
    1       1       1       1  
Actuarial losses on defined benefit obligations:
    (3,215 )     (3,410 )     (1,096 )     (1,363 )
Remeasurement in actuarial losses on defined benefit obligations
    (4,601 )     (4,870 )     (1,565 )     (1,947 )
Income tax related to remeasurement adjustments (Note 7)
    1,386       1,460       469       584  
Share in the other comprehensive loss of associates and joint ventures accounted for using the equity method
          (160 )            
 
                               
Net other comprehensive loss not to be reclassified to profit or loss in subsequent periods
    (3,216 )     (3,571 )     (1,096 )     (1,363 )
 
                               
Total Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) – Net of Tax
    (1,989 )     (16,420 )      288       (6,556 )
 
                               
TOTAL COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
    13,911       8,935       3,702       50  
 
                               
ATTRIBUTABLE TO:
                               
Equity holders of PLDT
    13,882       8,910       3,686       50  
Noncontrolling interests
    29       25       16        
 
                               
 
    13,911       8,935       3,702       50  
 
                               

See accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

11

PLDT INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN EQUITY
For the Nine Months Ended September 30, 2016 and 2015
(in million pesos)

                                                                         
                                                    Total Equity        
                                            Other   Attributable to        
            Common           Capital in Excess of           Comprehensive   Equity Holders   Noncontrolling   Total
    Preferred Stock   Stock   Treasury Stock   Par Value   Retained Earnings   Loss   of PLDT   Interests   Equity
Balances as at January 1, 2016
    510       1,093       (6,505 )     130,517       6,195       (18,202 )     113,608       290       113,898  
Total comprehensive income:
                            16,108       (2,226 )     13,882       29       13,911  
Net income (Notes 4 and 8)
                            15,865             15,865       35       15,900  
Other comprehensive loss (Note 6)
                            243       (2,226 )     (1,983 )     (6 )     (1,989 )
Cash dividends (Note 20)
                            (22,946 )           (22,946 )     (20 )     (22,966 )
Acquisition and dilution of noncontrolling
interests
 
 
 
 
(13)
 
 
 
(13)
 
(5)
 
(18)
Balances as at September 30, 2016 (Unaudited)
    510       1,093       (6,505 )     130,504       (643 )     (20,428 )     104,531       294       104,825  
 
                                                                       
Balances as at January 1, 2015
    510       1,093       (6,505 )     130,521       17,030       (8,285 )     134,364       304       134,668  
Total comprehensive income:
                            25,339       (16,429 )     8,910       25       8,935  
Net income (Notes 4 and 8)
                            25,339             25,339       16       25,355  
Other comprehensive income (loss) (Note 6)
                                  (16,429 )     (16,429 )     9       (16,420 )
Cash dividends (Note 20)
                            (32,885 )           (32,885 )     (17 )     (32,902 )
Acquisition and dilution of noncontrolling
interests
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(3)
 
(3)
 
                                                                       
Balances as at September 30, 2015 (Unaudited)
    510       1,093       (6,505 )     130,521       9,484       (24,714 )     110,389       309       110,698  
 
                                                                       

See accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

12

PLDT INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
For the Nine Months Ended September 30, 2016 and 2015
(in million pesos)

                 
    2016   2015
    (Unaudited)
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES
               
Income before income tax (Note 4)
    22,160       32,693  
Adjustments for:
               
Depreciation and amortization (Note 9)
    22,603       21,187  
Asset impairment (Note 5)
    12,914       2,662  
Interest on loans and other related items – net (Note 5)
    5,141       4,317  
Foreign exchange gains – net (Notes 9 and 28)
    1,434       2,523  
Pension benefit costs (Notes 5 and 26)
    1,221       1,429  
Amortization of intangible assets (Note 15)
    821       805  
Accretion on financial liabilities – net (Note 5)
    176       163  
Gains on derivative financial instruments – net (Note 28)
    (511 )     (447 )
Interest income (Note 5)
    (743 )     (590 )
Losses (gains) on disposal of property and equipment (Note 9)
    (915 )     192  
Equity share in net earnings of associates and joint ventures (Notes 4 and 10)
    (1,477 )     (2,668 )
Gain on disposal of associates
    (7,816 )     (2,838 )
Others
    48       (231 )
 
               
Operating income before changes in assets and liabilities
    55,056       59,197  
Decrease (increase) in:
               
Trade and other receivables
    (7,663 )     (1,145 )
Inventories and supplies
    (683 )     (414 )
Prepayments
    (2,677 )     (1,191 )
Advances and other noncurrent assets
    (108 )     122  
Increase (decrease) in:
               
Accounts payable
    (2,117 )     5,221  
Accrued expenses and other current liabilities
    1,694       3,186  
Pension and other employee benefits
    (4,790 )     (10,197 )
Customers’ deposits
    3       7  
Other noncurrent liabilities
    12       (15 )
 
               
Net cash flows generated from operations
    38,727       54,771  
Income taxes paid
    (5,450 )     (6,975 )
 
               
Net cash flows from operating activities
    33,277       47,796  
 
               
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES
               
Dividends received (Note 10)
    4,409       5,544  
Interest received
    748       712  
Proceeds from:
               
Disposal of investments in associates and joint ventures
    17,000        
Maturity of short-term investments
    1,557       1,469  
Disposal of property and equipment (Note 9)
    1,357       240  
Disposal of available-for-sale financial investments
    1        
Maturity of investment in debt securities
          292  
Disposal of investment properties (Note 13)
          8  
Payments for:
               
Purchase of shares of noncontrolling interests – net of cash acquired
    (150 )     (1 )
Acquisition of intangible assets (Note 15)
    (227 )     (318 )
Interest paid – capitalized to property and equipment (Note 9)
    (366 )     (285 )
Purchase of available-for-sale financial investments
    (1,000 )     (2 )
Purchase of short-term investments
    (1,704 )     (1,934 )
Purchase of investments in associates and joint ventures
    (13,451 )     (955 )
Purchase of investment in debt securities
          (234 )
Additions to property and equipment (Notes 4 and 9)
    (25,765 )     (23,012 )
Decrease (increase) in advances and other noncurrent assets
    (82 )     25  
 
               
Net cash flows used in investing activities
    (17,673 )     (18,451 )
 
               

See accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

13

PLDT INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (continued)
For the Six Months Ended September 30, 2016 and 2015
(in million pesos)

                 
    2016   2015
    (Unaudited)
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES
               
Proceeds from availments of long-term debt (Note 21)
    14,869       30,867  
Payments for:
               
Debt issuance costs (Note 21)
    (111 )     (294 )
Derivative financial instruments (Note 28)
    (676 )     (535 )
Interest – net of capitalized portion (Notes 5 and 21)
    (5,184 )     (4,223 )
Long-term financing for capital expenditures
    (5,397 )     (2,208 )
Long-term debt (Note 21)
    (16,549 )     (13,550 )
Cash dividends (Note 20)
    (22,899 )     (32,649 )
Redemption of shares
          (1 )
Obligations under finance leases
          (3 )
Net cash flows used in financing activities
    (35,947 )     (22,596 )
 
               
NET EFFECT OF FOREIGN EXCHANGE RATE CHANGES ON CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS
    283       494  
 
               
NET INCREASE (DECREASE) IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS
    (20,060 )     7,243  
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS AT BEGINNING OF THE PERIOD (Note 16)
    46,455       26,659  
 
               
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS AT END OF THE PERIOD (Note 16)
    26,395       33,902  
 
               

See accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

14

PLDT INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

  1.   Corporate Information

The PLDT Inc. (formerly Philippine Long Distance Telephone Company, or PLDT, or the Parent Company) was incorporated under the old Corporation Law of the Philippines (Act 1459, as amended) on November 28, 1928, following the merger of four telephone companies under common U.S. ownership.  Under its amended Articles of Incorporation, PLDT’s corporate term is currently limited through 2028.  In 1967, effective control of PLDT was sold by the General Telephone and Electronics Corporation, then a major shareholder since PLDT’s incorporation, to a group of Filipino businessmen.  In 1981, in furtherance of the then existing policy of the Philippine government to integrate the Philippine telecommunications industry, PLDT purchased substantially all of the assets and liabilities of the Republic Telephone Company, which at that time was the second largest telephone company in the Philippines.  In 1998, certain subsidiaries of First Pacific Company Limited, or First Pacific, and its Philippine affiliates (collectively the First Pacific Group and its Philippine affiliates), acquired a significant interest in PLDT.  On March 24, 2000, NTT Communications Corporation, or NTT Communications, through its wholly-owned subsidiary NTT Communications Capital (UK) Ltd., became PLDT’s strategic partner with approximately 15% economic and voting interest in the issued and outstanding common stock of PLDT at that time.  Simultaneous with NTT Communications’ investment in PLDT, the latter acquired 100% of Smart Communications, Inc., or Smart.  On March 14, 2006, NTT DOCOMO, Inc., or NTT DOCOMO, acquired from NTT Communications approximately 7% of PLDT’s then outstanding common shares held by NTT Communications with NTT Communications retaining ownership of approximately 7% of PLDT’s common shares.  Since March 14, 2006, NTT DOCOMO has made additional purchases of shares of PLDT, and together with NTT Communications beneficially owned approximately 20% of PLDT’s outstanding common stock as at September 30, 2016.  NTT Communications and NTT DOCOMO are subsidiaries of NTT Holding Company.  On February 28, 2007, Metro Pacific Asset Holdings, Inc., a Philippine affiliate of First Pacific, completed the acquisition of an approximately 46% interest in Philippine Telecommunications Investment Corporation, or PTIC, a shareholder of PLDT.  This investment in PTIC represented an attributable interest of approximately 6% of the then outstanding common shares of PLDT and thereby raised First Pacific Group’s and its Philippine affiliates’ beneficial ownership to approximately 28% of PLDT’s outstanding common stock as at that date.  Since then, First Pacific Group’s beneficial ownership interest in PLDT decreased by approximately 2%, mainly due to the holders of Exchangeable Notes, which were issued in 2005 by a subsidiary of First Pacific and exchangeable into PLDT             shares owned by First Pacific Group, who fully exchanged their notes.  First Pacific Group and its Philippine affiliates had beneficial ownership of approximately 26% in PLDT’s outstanding common stock as at September 30, 2016. On October 26, 2011, PLDT completed the acquisition of a controlling interest in Digital Telecommunications Phils., Inc., or Digitel, from JG Summit Holdings, Inc., or JGSHI, and its affiliates, or JG Summit Group.  As payment for the assets acquired from JGSHI, PLDT issued approximately 27.7 million common             shares.  In November 2011, JGSHI sold 5.81 million and 4.56 million PLDT shares to a Philippine affiliate of First Pacific and NTT DOCOMO, respectively, pursuant to separate option agreements that JGSHI had entered into with a Philippine affiliate of First Pacific and NTT DOCOMO, respectively.  As at September 30, 2016, the JG Summit Group beneficially owned approximately 8% of PLDT’s outstanding common shares.

On October 16, 2012, BTF Holdings, Inc., or BTFHI, a wholly-owned company of the Board of Trustees for the Account of the Beneficial Trust Fund, or PLDT Beneficial Trust Fund, created pursuant to PLDT’s Benefit Plan, subscribed to 150 million newly issued shares of Voting Preferred Stock of PLDT, or Voting Preferred Shares, at a subscription price of Php1.00 per share for a total subscription price of Php150 million pursuant to a subscription agreement between BTFHI and PLDT dated October 15, 2012. As a result of the issuance of Voting Preferred Shares, the voting power of the NTT Group (NTT DOCOMO and NTT Communications), First Pacific Group and its Philippine affiliates, and JG Summit Group was reduced to 12%, 15% and 5%, respectively, as at September 30, 2016. See Note 20 – Equity – Voting Preferred Stock and Note 27 – Provisions and Contingencies – In the Matter of the Wilson Gamboa Case and Jose M. Roy III Petition.

The common shares of PLDT are listed and traded on the Philippine Stock Exchange, Inc., or PSE. On October 19, 1994, an American Depositary Receipt, or ADR, facility was established, pursuant to which Citibank N.A., as the depositary, issued American Depositary Shares, or ADSs, with each ADS representing one PLDT common share with a par value of Php5.00 per share. Effective February 10, 2003, PLDT appointed JP Morgan Chase Bank as successor depositary for PLDT’s ADR facility. The ADSs are listed on the New York Stock Exchange, or NYSE, in the United States and are traded on the NYSE under the symbol “PHI”. There were approximately 39.4 million ADSs outstanding as at September 30, 2016.

PLDT and our Philippine-based fixed line and wireless subsidiaries operate under the jurisdiction of the Philippine National Telecommunications Commission, or NTC, which jurisdiction extends, among other things, to approving major services offered and certain rates charged to customers.

We are the leading telecommunications service provider in the Philippines. Through our three business segments (Wireless, Fixed Line and Others), we offer the largest and most diversified range of telecommunications services which offers data and multi-media services across the Philippines’ most extensive fiber optic backbone, wireless and fixed line networks. Our principal activities are discussed in Note 4 – Operating Segment Information.

Our registered office address is Ramon Cojuangco Building, Makati Avenue, Makati City, Philippines.

Amendments to the Articles of Incorporation of PLDT

On April 12, 2016 and June 14, 2016, the Board of Directors and stockholders, respectively, approved the following actions:  (i) change in the name of the Company from Philippine Long Distance Telephone Company to PLDT Inc.; (ii) expansion of the purpose clause to expressly provide for such other purposes and powers incidental to or in furtherance of the primary purpose, including the power to do or engage in such activities required, necessary or expedient in the pursuit of lawful businesses or for the protection or benefit of the Company; and (iii) corresponding amendments to the First Article and Second Article of the Articles of Incorporation of the Company. 

On July 29, 2016, the Amended Articles of Incorporation of the Company containing the aforementioned amendments was approved by the Philippine Securities and Exchange Commission, or Philippine SEC.

Amendments to the By-Laws of PLDT

On August 30, 2016, the Board of Directors, exercising its own power and the authority duly delegated to it by the stockholders of PLDT to amend the By-Laws, authorized and approved the following amendments: (i) change in the name of the Company from Philippine Long Distance Telephone Company to PLDT Inc. both in the heading and Section 1, Article XV of the By-Laws; and (ii) change in the logo of the Company as stated in Section 1, Article XV of the By-Laws from desk telephone to the current triangle-shaped logo of the corporation. The Certificate of Amendment and Amended By-Laws have been filed with the Philippine SEC on November 8, 2016.

2. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

Basis of Preparation

Our consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with Philippine Financial Reporting Standards, or PFRSs, as issued by the Philippine Financial Reporting Standards Council, or FRSC.

Our consolidated financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost basis, except for derivative financial instruments, available-for-sale financial investments, certain short-term investments and investment properties that are measured at fair values.

Our consolidated financial statements include adjustments consisting only of normal recurring adjustments, necessary to present fairly the results of operations for the interim periods. The results of operations for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 are not necessarily indicative of the results of operations that may be expected for the full year.

Our consolidated financial statements are presented in Philippine peso, PLDT’s functional and presentation currency, and all values are rounded to the nearest million, except when otherwise indicated.

Basis of Consolidation

Our consolidated financial statements include the financial statements of PLDT and the following subsidiaries (collectively, the “PLDT Group”) as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015:

                                                 
                    September 30,   December 31,
                    2016   2015
                    (Unaudited)   (Audited)
 
  Place of           Percentage of Ownership
Name of Subsidiary
  Incorporation   Principal Business Activity   Direct   Indirect   Direct   Indirect
 
                                               
Wireless
                                               
Smart:
  Philippines   Cellular mobile services     100.0             100.0        
Smart Broadband, Inc., or SBI,
          Internet broadband distribution                                
and Subsidiary
  Philippines   services           100.0             100.0  
Primeworld Digital Systems, Inc.,
          Internet broadband distribution                                
or PDSI
  Philippines   services           100.0             100.0  
I-Contacts Corporation
  Philippines   Operations support servicing business           100.0             100.0  
Smart Money Holdings Corporation, or SMHC
  Cayman Islands   Investment company           100.0             100.0  
Far East Capital Limited, or FECL,
  Cayman Islands   Cost effective offshore financing           100.0             100.0  
and Subsidiary, or FECL Group
          and risk management activities for                                
 
          Smart                                
PH Communications Holdings Corporation
  Philippines   Investment company           100.0             100.0  
Connectivity Unlimited Resource Enterprise, or
  Philippines   Cellular mobile services           100.0             100.0  
CURE
                                               
Francom Holdings, Inc.:
  Philippines   Investment company           100.0             100.0  
Chikka Holdings Limited, or Chikka,
  British Virgin   Content provider, mobile           100.0             100.0  
and Subsidiaries, or Chikka Group
  Islands   applications development and                                
 
          services                                
Voyager Innovations, Inc., or
  Philippines   Mobile applications and digital           100.0             100.0  
Voyager
          platforms developer                                
eInnovations Holdings Pte. Ltd.,
  Singapore   Investment company           100.0             100.0  
or eInnovations (formerly Smarthub Pte. Ltd.)(a)(b):
                                               
Takatack Holdings Pte. Ltd., or Takatack
  Singapore   Investment company           100.0             100.0  
Holdings (formerly Takatack Pte. Ltd.)(c)
                                               
Takatack Technologies Pte. Ltd., or
  Singapore   Development and maintenance of           100.0             100.0  
Takatack Technologies (formerly
          IT-based solutions for                                
Paywhere Pte. Ltd.)(d)
          communications and e-Commerce                                
 
          platforms                                
Takatack Malaysia Sdn. Bhd., or
  Malaysia   Development, maintenance and support           100.0              
Takatack Malaysia(e)
          services to enable the digital                                
 
          commerce ecosystem                                
iCommerce Investments Pte. Ltd., or
  Singapore   Investment company           100.0             100.0  
iCommerce(b)
                                               
Voyager Fintech Ventures Pte. Ltd., or
  Singapore   Investment company           100.0             100.0  
Fintech Ventures (formerly eInnovations Ventures Pte. Ltd. or eVentures)(f)
                                               
Fintqnologies Corporation,
  Philippines   Development of financial technology           100.0              
or FINTQ(g)
          innovations                                
ePay Investments Pte. Ltd.,
  Singapore   Investment company           100.0             100.0  
or ePay(b)
                                               
PayMaya Philippines, Inc.
  Philippines   Provide and market certain mobile           100.0             100.0  
or PayMaya (formerly Smart e-Money,
          payment services                                
Inc.)(h)
                                               
PayMaya Operations Philippines,
  Philippines   Market, sell and distribute payment           100.0             100.0  
Inc., or PayMaya Ops
          solutions and other related services                                
(formerly mePay Operations Philippines, Inc.)(i)
                                               
 
                                               
3rd Brand Pte. Ltd., or
          Solutions and systems integration                                
3rd Brand
  Singapore   services           85.0             85.0  
WiFun, Inc., or WiFun(j)
  Philippines   Software developer and selling of           100.0             100.0  
 
          WiFi access equipment                                
Telesat, Inc.(k)
  Philippines   Satellite communications services     100.0             100.0        
ACeS Philippines Cellular Satellite Corporation, or
  Philippines   Satellite information and messaging     88.5       11.5       88.5       11.5  
ACeS Philippines
          services                                
Digitel Mobile Philippines, Inc., or DMPI, (a wholly-owned subsidiary of Digitel)
  Philippines   Cellular mobile services           99.6             99.6  
Fixed Line
                                               
PLDT Clark Telecom, Inc., or ClarkTel
  Philippines   Telecommunications services     100.0             100.0        
PLDT Subic Telecom, Inc., or SubicTel
  Philippines   Telecommunications services     100.0             100.0        
PLDT Global Corporation, or PLDT Global, and
  British Virgin                                        
Subsidiaries
  Islands   Telecommunications services     100.0             100.0        
Smart-NTT Multimedia, Inc.(k)
  Philippines   Data and network services     100.0             100.0        
PLDT-Philcom, Inc., or Philcom, and Subsidiaries, or
  Philippines   Telecommunications services     100.0             100.0        
Philcom Group
                                               
Talas Data Intelligence, Inc., or Talas(l)
  Philippines   Business infrastructure and     100.0             100.0        
 
          solutions; intelligent data                                
 
          processing and implementation                                
 
          services and data analytics insight                                
 
          generation                                
ePLDT, Inc., or ePLDT:
  Philippines   Information and communications     100.0             100.0        
 
          infrastructure for internet-based                                
 
          services, e-commerce, customer                                
 
          relationship management and IT                                
 
          related services                                
IP Converge Data Services, Inc.,
  Philippines   Information and communications           100.0             100.0  
or IPCDSI, and Subsidiary, or IPCDSI Group
          infrastructure for internet-based                                
 
          services, e-commerce, customer                                
 
          relationship management and IT                                
 
          related services                                
Curo Teknika, Inc., or Curo
  Philippines   Managed IT outsourcing           100.0             100.0  
ABM Global Solutions, Inc., or AGS, and
  Philippines   Internet-based purchasing, IT           99.8             99.8  
Subsidiaries, or AGS Group
          consulting and professional services                                
 
          Bills printing and other related                                
ePDS, Inc., or ePDS
  Philippines   value-added services, or VAS           67.0             67.0  
netGames, Inc.(m)
  Philippines   Gaming support services           57.5             57.5  
Digitel:
  Philippines   Telecommunications services     99.6             99.6        
Digitel Information Technology Services,
  Philippines   Internet services           99.6             99.6  
Inc.(k)
                                               
PLDT-Maratel, Inc., or Maratel
  Philippines   Telecommunications services     98.0             98.0        
Bonifacio Communications Corporation, or BCC
  Philippines   Telecommunications, infrastructure     75.0             75.0        
 
          and related VAS                                
Pacific Global One Aviation Company, Inc., or PG1
  Philippines   Air transportation business     65.0             65.0        
Pilipinas Global Network Limited,
  British Virgin   Internal distributor of Filipino     64.6             64.6        
or PGNL, and Subsidiaries
  Islands   channels and content                                
Others
                                               
PLDT Global Investments Holdings, Inc., or PGIH
  Philippines   Investment company     100.0             100.0        
PLDT Digital Investments Pte. Ltd., or PLDT Digital, and Subsidiaries
  Singapore   Investment company     100.0             100.0        
Mabuhay Investments Corporation,
  Philippines   Investment company     67.0             67.0        
or MIC(k)
                                               
PLDT Global Investments Corporation,
  British Virgin   Investment company           100.0             100.0  
or PGIC
  Islands                                        
PLDT Communications and Energy Ventures, Inc., or
  Philippines   Investment company           99.9             99.9  
PCEV
                                               
 
                                               

  (a)   On February 24, 2015, the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority, or ACRA, of Singapore, the national regulator of business entities in Singapore, approved the change in the business name of Smart Hub Pte. Ltd. to eInnovations Holdings Pte. Ltd.

  (b)   On February 27, 2015, ePay and iCommerce were incorporated in Singapore to provide digital, internet, information, communication and IT-related activities. Both subsidiaries will serve as the holding companies of other digital investments. ePay and iCommerce are 100% owned by eInnovations, each having an initial capitalization of SGD10 thousand, or Php323 thousand. ePay was deconsolidated in February 2016 and was reconsolidated in August 2016. See Note 10 – Investments in Associates and Joint Ventures – eInnovations’ Investment in ECommerce Pay.

  (c)   On October 1, 2015, the ACRA of Singapore approved the change in the business name of Takatack Pte. Ltd. to Takatack Holdings Pte. Ltd.

  (d)   On August 6, 2015, Takatack Holdings acquired 100% equity interest in Paywhere Pte. Ltd. On October 1, 2015, the ACRA of Singapore approved the change in the business name of Paywhere Pte. Ltd. to Takatack Technologies Pte. Ltd.

  (e)   On April 12, 2016, Takatack Malaysia was incorporated in Malaysia to provide development, maintenance and support services and sales and marketing to enable the entire digital commerce ecosystem in favor of consumers, merchants, service providers and other third parties.

  (f)   On August 21, 2015, eVentures was incorporated in Singapore to serve as a holding company of other digital investments providing digital, internet, information, communication and IT-related activities. On January 12, 2016, the ACRA of Singapore approved the change in business name of eVentures to Voyager Fintech Ventures Pte. Ltd.

  (g)   On April 27, 2016, Voyager incorporated its financial technology unit FINTQ focusing on customer-centric, demand-driven and mobile-first financial technology platforms that enable banks and non-banks in offering their respective customer base seamless digital access to loans, savings, insurance, disbursements, payments, anti-fraud and card control services, among others. Its key thrust is to promote inclusive growth and financial inclusion leveraging on digital and mobile technologies in emerging markets.

  (h)   Effective September 15, 2015, the Philippine SEC approved the amendment of Smart e-Money, Inc.’s name to PayMaya Philippines, Inc.

  (i)   On February 10, 2015, mePay Operations Philippines, Inc. was incorporated in the Philippines to market, sell and distribute payment solutions and other related services. Effective June 22, 2015, the Philippine SEC approved the amendment of mePay Operations Philippines, Inc. name to PayMaya Operations Philippines, Inc., or PayMaya Ops. PayMaya Ops is 60% and 40% owned by PayMaya and Smart, respectively, with initial capitalization of Php1 million.

  (j)   On November 25, 2015, Smart acquired the remaining 13% noncontrolling shares for a total purchase price of Php10 million, of which Php7 million and Php3 million were paid on November 25, 2015 and February 29, 2016, respectively.

  (k)   Ceased commercial operations.

  (l)   On June 16, 2015, Talas was incorporated in the Philippines to implement the Intelligent Data Fabric and immediate delivery of Big Data capability platform of the PLDT Group.

  (m)   Ceased commercial operations and under liquidation due to shortened corporate life to August 31, 2015.

Subsidiaries are fully consolidated from the date of acquisition, being the date on which the PLDT Group obtains control, and continue to be consolidated until the date that such control ceases. We control an investee when we are exposed, or have rights, to variable returns from our involvement with the investee and when we have the ability to affect those returns through our power over the investee.

The financial statements of our subsidiaries are prepared for the same reporting period as PLDT. We prepare our consolidated financial statements using uniform accounting policies for like transactions and other events with similar circumstances. All intra-group balances, income and expenses, unrealized gains and losses and dividends resulting from intra-group transactions are eliminated in full.

Noncontrolling interests share in losses even if the losses exceed the noncontrolling equity interest in the subsidiary.

A change in the ownership interest of a subsidiary, without loss of control, is accounted for as an equity transaction.

If the PLDT Group loses control over a subsidiary, it: (a) derecognizes the assets (including goodwill) and liabilities of the subsidiary; (b) derecognizes the carrying amount of any noncontrolling interest;
(c) derecognizes the cumulative translation differences recorded in equity; (d) recognizes the fair value of the consideration received; (e) recognizes the fair value of any investment retained; (f) recognizes any surplus or deficit in profit or loss; and (g) reclassifies the parent’s share of components previously recognized in other comprehensive income to profit or loss or retained earnings, as appropriate.

See Note 14 – Business Combinations for further related disclosures.

Divestment of CURE

On October 26, 2011, PLDT received the Order issued by the NTC approving the application jointly filed by PLDT and Digitel for the sale and transfer of approximately 51.6% of the outstanding common stock of Digitel to PLDT.  The approval of the application was subject to conditions which included the divestment by PLDT of CURE, in accordance with the Divestment Plan, as follows:   

CURE is obligated to sell its Red Mobile business to Smart consisting primarily of its subscriber base, brand and fixed assets; and

Smart is obligated to sell all of its rights and interests in CURE whose remaining assets will consist of its congressional franchise, 10 Megahertz, or MHz, of 3G frequency in the 2100 band and related permits.

In compliance with the commitments in the divestment plan, CURE completed the sale and transfer of its Red Mobile business to Smart on June 30, 2012 for a total consideration of Php18 million through a series of transactions, which included: (a) the sale of CURE’s Red Mobile trademark to Smart; (b) the transfer of CURE’s existing Red Mobile subscriber base to Smart; and (c) the sale of CURE’s fixed assets to Smart at net book value.

In a letter dated July 26, 2012, Smart informed the NTC that it has complied with the terms and conditions of the divestment plan as CURE had rearranged its assets, such that, except for assets necessary to pay off obligations due after June 30, 2012 and certain tax assets, CURE’s only remaining assets as at June 30, 2012 were its congressional franchise, the 10 MHz of 3G frequency in the 2100 band and related permits.

In a letter dated September 10, 2012, Smart informed the NTC that the minimum Cost Recovery Amount, or CRA, to enable the PLDT Group to recover its investment in CURE includes, among others, the total cost of equity investments in CURE, advances from Smart for operating requirements, advances from stockholders and associated funding costs. Smart also informed the NTC that the divestment will be undertaken through an auction sale of CURE’s shares of stock to the winning bidder and submitted CURE’s audited financial statements as at June 30, 2012 to the NTC. In a letter dated January 21, 2013, the NTC referred the computation of the CRA to the Commissioners of the NTC. Smart sent a reply agreeing to the proposal and is awaiting advice from the NTC on the bidding and auction of the 3G license of CURE.

As at November 14, 2016, CURE is still waiting for advice from the NTC on how to proceed with the planned divestment.

Due to the planned divestment, franchise and licenses related to CURE qualify as noncurrent assets held-for-sale. However, these were not presented separately in our consolidated statements of financial position as the carrying amounts are not material.

PCEV’s Common Stock

On June 24, 2014, PCEV’s Board of Directors approved a program involving the repurchase or buyback program of its common shares, which are owned by its remaining minority stockholders and offered for sale at a price of not more than Php100,000 per share.

In 2014, the number of holders of PCEV common stock decreased to 97 and because the number of shareholders decreased below 100, PCEV filed a petition to the Philippine SEC for the suspension of duty to file reports under Section 17 of the Philippine SEC Regulation Code on December 22, 2014.

After the buyback program which ended on June 30, 2015, the number of holders of PCEV common stock decreased to 96.

On December 22, 2015, a year after submission of the petition, PCEV re-filed the notification of suspension of duty to file reports, advising the commission that PCEV will cease filing any reports required under Section 17 of the Philippine SEC Regulation Code beginning January 1, 2016.

Consolidation of Various Digital Businesses of Smart under Voyager

On December 18, 2014, the Board of Directors of Smart approved the consolidation of various digital businesses under Voyager. To facilitate the consolidation of these entities, the following were executed: (a) On February 25, 2015, Smart made an additional capital cash infusion to Voyager amounting to Php250 million and converted Php400 million Smart advances to Voyager into additional paid-in capital; (b) On March 4, 2015, Smart sold all of its             shares in eInnovations to Voyager for SGD7.6 million, or Php243 million; (c) On March 17, 2015, Smart granted an interest-bearing loan to eInnovations amounting to US$13.5 million, or Php600 million; and (d) On March 26, 2015, Smart sold all of its shares in PayMaya to ePay for Php603 million.

On August 3, 2015, the Board of Directors of Smart approved the additional equity infusion by Smart to Voyager of Php1,716 million via subscription to additional shares. Of this amount, Smart has invested additional capital of Php1,332 million as at December 31, 2015. The additional equity infusion is intended for Voyager’s various investments, as well as capital expenditures and working capital requirements. The total investment of Smart in Voyager amounted to Php2,372 million as at September 30, 2016.

The transactions above have no impact on our consolidated financial statements.

Incorporation of Talas

On June 9, 2015, the PLDT Board of Directors approved the incorporation of Talas, a wholly-owned subsidiary of PLDT. Total subscription in Talas amounted to Php250 million, of which Php62.5 million was paid on May 28, 2015, for purposes of incorporation, and the balance of Php187.5 million was paid on May 13, 2016.

Talas is tasked with unifying the digital data assets of the PLDT Group which involves the implementation of the Intelligent Data Fabric, exploration of revenue opportunities and the delivery of the big data capability platform.

Incorporation of PLDT Capital Pte. Ltd., or PLDT Capital

PLDT Capital was incorporated as a wholly-owned subsidiary of PLDT Online Investments Pte. Ltd., or PLDT Online, on August 12, 2015. As an investment arm, PLDT Capital is envisioned to be an important pillar in supporting the PLDT Group’s digital pivot through collaboration with world-class pioneering companies in Silicon Valley, USA and around the world.

In 2015, PLDT Capital made the following investments:

Investment in Phunware, Inc., or Phunware;
Investment in AppCard, Inc., or AppCard; and
Investment in Matrixx Software, Inc., or Matrixx

See Note 10 – Investments in Associates and Joint Ventures and Note 11 – Available-for-Sale Financial Investments.

Joint Venture Agreement between PLDT Capital and Gohopscotch, Inc., or Hopscotch

On April 15, 2016, PLDT Capital and Hopscotch, a Delaware corporation, entered into a joint venture agreement, or JVA, to market and exclusively distribute Hopscotch’s mobile solutions in Southeast Asia. The Hopscotch mobile-platform technology allows for the rapid development of custom mobile applications for sports teams, live events, and brands to not only create a memorable and monetizable fan experience but also increase mobile advertising revenue. As a vehicle to execute the JVA, PLDT Capital incorporated Gohopscotch Southeast Asia Pte. Ltd., a Singapore Company, on March 1, 2016.

Transfer of DMPI’s Sun Postpaid Cellular and Broadband Assets to Smart

On August 1, 2016, the Board of Directors of Smart and DMPI approved the sale/transfer of DMPI’s trademark and subscribers including all of DMPI’s assets, rights and obligations directly or indirectly connected to its postpaid cellular and broadband operations. The transfer is in line with the group’s objective to integrate the wireless business into a simplified business operation that will provide flexibility to offer new bundled/converged products and enhanced customer experience. The effective date of the transfer is November 1, 2016.

New and Amended Standards and Interpretations

The Group applied for the first time certain amendments, which are effective for annual periods beginning on or after January 1, 2016. The adoption of these amendments to the standards as at January 1, 2016 did not have any significant impact on our consolidated financial statements.

PFRS 10, Consolidated Financial Statements, and Philippine Accounting Standards, or PAS, 28, Investments in Associates and Joint Ventures — Investment Entities: Applying the Consolidation Exception (Amendments)
PAS 27, Separate Financial Statements — Equity Method in Separate Financial Statements (Amendments)
PFRS 11, Joint Arrangements — Accounting for Acquisitions of Interests (Amendments)
PAS 1, Presentation of Financial Statements — Disclosure Initiative (Amendments)
PFRS 14, Regulatory Deferral Accounts
PAS 16, Property, Plant and Equipment, and PAS 41, Agriculture — Bearer Plants
PAS 16, Property, Plant and Equipment, and PAS 38, Intangible Assets — Clarification of Acceptable Methods of Depreciation and Amortization (Amendments)
Annual Improvements to PFRS (2012-2014 Cycle)

PFRS 5, Noncurrent Assets Held-for-Sale and Discontinued Operations — Changes in Methods of Disposal
PFRS 7, Financial Instruments: Disclosures — Servicing Contracts
PFRS 7, Applicability of the Amendments to PFRS 7 to Condensed Interim Financial Statements
PAS 19, Employee Benefits — Regional Market Issue regarding Discount Rate
PAS 34, Interim Financial Reporting — Disclosure of Information ‘Elsewhere in the Interim Financial Report’

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

The following is the summary of significant accounting policies we applied in preparing our consolidated financial statements:

Business Combinations and Goodwill

Business combinations are accounted for using the acquisition method. The cost of an acquisition is measured as the aggregate of the consideration transferred, measured at acquisition date fair value, and the amount of any noncontrolling interest in the acquiree. For each business combination, we elect whether to measure the components of the noncontrolling interest in the acquiree either at fair value or at the proportionate share of the acquiree’s identifiable net assets. Acquisition-related costs are expensed as incurred.

When we acquire a business, we assess the financial assets and liabilities assumed for appropriate classification and designation in accordance with the contractual terms, economic circumstances and pertinent conditions as at the acquisition date. This includes the separation of embedded derivatives in host contracts by the acquiree.

If the business combination is achieved in stages, the previously held equity interest is remeasured at its acquisition date fair value and any resulting gain or loss is recognized in profit or loss. The fair value of previously held equity interest is then included in the amount of total consideration transferred.

Any contingent consideration to be transferred by the acquirer will be recognized at fair value at the acquisition date. Contingent consideration classified as an asset or liability is measured at fair value with changes in fair value recognized in profit or loss. Contingent consideration that is classified as equity is not remeasured and subsequent settlement is accounted for within equity.

Goodwill is initially measured at cost, being the excess of the aggregate of the consideration transferred and the amount recognized for noncontrolling interests and any previous interest held, over the net identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed. If the fair value of the net assets acquired is in excess of the aggregate consideration transferred, we reassess whether we correctly identified all of the assets acquired and all of the liabilities assumed and review the procedures used to measure the amounts to be recognized at the acquisition date. If the reassessment still results in an excess of the fair value of net assets acquired over the aggregate consideration transferred, then the gain on a bargain purchase is recognized in profit or loss.

If the initial accounting for a business combination is incomplete by the end of the reporting period in which the combination occurs, we report in our consolidated financial statements provisional amounts for the items for which the accounting is incomplete. During the measurement period, which is no longer than one year from the acquisition date, the provisional amounts recognized at acquisition date are retrospectively adjusted to reflect new information obtained about facts and circumstances that existed as of the acquisition date and, if known, would have affected the measurement of the amounts recognized as of that date. During the measurement period, we also recognize additional assets or liabilities if new information is obtained about facts and circumstances that existed as of the acquisition date and, if known, would have resulted in the recognition of those assets and liabilities as of that date.

After initial recognition, goodwill is measured at cost less any accumulated impairment losses. For the purpose of impairment testing, goodwill acquired in a business combination is, from the acquisition date, allocated to each of our cash-generating units, or CGUs, that are expected to benefit from the combination, irrespective of whether other assets or liabilities of the acquiree are assigned to those units.

Where goodwill acquired in a business combination has yet to be allocated to identifiable CGUs because the initial accounting is incomplete, such provisional goodwill is not tested for impairment unless indicators of impairment exist and we can reliably allocate the carrying amount of goodwill to a CGU or group of CGUs that are expected to benefit from the synergies of the business combination.

Where goodwill has been allocated to a CGU and part of the operation within that unit is disposed of, the goodwill associated with the operation disposed of is included in the carrying amount of the operation when determining the gain or loss on disposal of the operation. Goodwill disposed of in this circumstance is measured based on the relative values of the disposed operation and the portion of the CGU retained.

Investments in Associates

An associate is an entity in which we have significant influence. Significant influence is the power to participate in the financial and operating policy decisions of the investee, but has no control nor joint control over those policies. The existence of significant influence is presumed to exist when we hold 20% or more, but less than 50% of the voting power of another entity. Significant influence is also exemplified when we have one or more of the following: (a) a representation on the board of directors or the equivalent governing body of the investee; (b) participation in policy-making processes, including participation in decisions about dividends or other distributions; (c) material transactions with the investee; (d) interchange of managerial personnel with the investee; or (e) provision of essential technical information.

Investments in associates are accounted for using the equity method of accounting and are initially recognized at cost. The cost of the investments includes transaction costs. The details of our investments in associates are disclosed in Note 10 – Investments in Associates and Joint Ventures – Investments in Associates.

Under the equity method, an investment in an associate is carried at cost plus post acquisition changes in our share of net assets of the associate. Goodwill relating to an associate is included in the carrying amount of the investment and is not amortized nor individually tested for impairment. Our consolidated income statement reflects our share in the financial performance of our associates. Where there has been a change recognized directly in the equity of the associate, we recognize our share in such change and disclose this, when applicable, in our consolidated statement of comprehensive income and consolidated statement of changes in equity. Unrealized gains and losses resulting from our transactions with and among our associates are eliminated to the extent of our interests in those associates.

Our share in the profits or losses of our associates is shown on the face of our consolidated income statement. This is the profit or loss attributable to equity holders of the associate and therefore is profit or loss after tax and net of noncontrolling interest in the subsidiaries of the associate.

When our share of losses exceeds our interest in an associate, the carrying amount of the investment, including any long-term interests that form part thereof, is reduced to zero, and the recognition of further losses is discontinued except to the extent that we have an obligation or have made payments on behalf of the investee.

Our reporting dates and that of our associates are identical and our associates’ accounting policies conform to those used by us for like transactions and events in similar circumstances. When necessary, adjustments are made to bring such accounting policies in line with our policies.

After application of the equity method, we determine whether it is necessary to recognize an additional impairment loss on our investments in associates. We determine at the end of each reporting period whether there is any objective evidence that our investment in associate is impaired. If this is the case, we calculate the amount of impairment as the difference between the recoverable amount of our investment in the associate and its carrying value and recognize the amount in our consolidated income statement.

Upon loss of significant influence over the associate, we measure and recognize any retained investment at its fair value. Any difference between the carrying amounts of our investment in the associate upon loss of significant influence and the fair value of the remaining investment and proceeds from disposal is recognized in profit or loss.

Joint Arrangements

Joint arrangements are arrangements with respect to which we have joint control, established by contracts requiring unanimous consent from the parties sharing control for decisions about the activities that significantly affect the arrangements’ returns. They are classified and accounted for as follows:

Joint operation – when we have rights to the assets, and obligations for the liabilities, relating to an arrangement, we account for each of our assets, liabilities and transactions, including our share of those held or incurred jointly, in relation to the joint operation in accordance with the PFRS applicable to the particular assets, liabilities and transactions.

Joint venture – when we have rights only to the net assets of the arrangements, we account for our interest using the equity method, the same as our accounting for investments in associates.

The financial statements of the joint venture are prepared for the same reporting period as our consolidated financial statements. Where necessary, adjustments are made to bring the accounting policies of the joint venture in line with our policies. The details of our investments in joint ventures are disclosed in Note 10 – Investments in Associates and Joint Ventures – Investments in Joint Ventures.

Adjustments are made in our consolidated financial statements to eliminate our share of unrealized gains and losses on transactions between us and our joint venture. Our investment in joint venture is carried at equity method until the date on which we cease to have joint control over the joint venture.

Upon loss of joint control over the joint venture, we measure and recognize our retained investment at fair value. Any difference between the carrying amount of the former joint venture upon loss of joint control and the fair value of the remaining investment and proceeds from disposal is recognized in profit or loss. When the remaining investment constitutes significant influence, it is accounted for as an investment in an associate.

Current Versus Noncurrent Classifications

We present assets and liabilities in the consolidated statements of financial position based on current or noncurrent classification.

An asset is current when it is:

Expected to be realized or intended to be sold or consumed in the normal operating cycle;
Held primarily for the purpose of trading;
Expected to be realized within twelve months after the reporting period; or
Cash or cash equivalent unless restricted from being exchanged or used to settle a liability for at least twelve months after the reporting period.

All other assets are classified as noncurrent.

A liability is current when:

It is expected to be settled in the normal operating cycle;
It is held primarily for the purpose of trading;
It is due to be settled within twelve months after the reporting period; or
There is no unconditional right to defer the settlement of the liability for at least twelve months after the period.

We classify all other liabilities as noncurrent.

Deferred income tax assets and liabilities are classified as noncurrent assets and liabilities, respectively.

Foreign Currency Transactions and Translations

Our consolidated financial statements are presented in Philippine peso, which is also the Parent Company’s functional currency. The Philippine peso is the currency of the primary economic environment in which we operate. This is also the currency that mainly influences the revenue from and cost of rendering products and services. Each entity in our Group determines its own functional currency and items included in the financial statements of each entity are measured using that functional currency.

The functional and presentation currency of the entities under PLDT Group (except for SMHC, FECL Group, PLDT Global and certain of its subsidiaries, DCPL, PGNL and certain of its subsidiaries, Chikka and certain of its subsidiaries, PGIC, eInnovations, Takatack Holdings, Takatack Technologies, iCommerce, Fintech Ventures, ePay, 3rd Brand, Chikka Pte. Ltd., or CPL, ABM Global Solutions Pte. Ltd., or AGSPL, Chikka Communications Consulting (Beijing) Co. Ltd., or CCCBL, ABMGS Sdn. Bhd., or AGS Malaysia, and PT Advance Business Microsystems Global Solutions, or AGS Indonesia) is the Philippine peso.

Transactions in foreign currencies are initially recorded by entities under our Group at the respective functional currency rates prevailing at the date of the transaction. Monetary assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies are retranslated at the functional currency closing rate of exchange prevailing at the end of the reporting period. All differences arising on settlement or translation of monetary items are recognized in our consolidated income statement except for foreign exchange differences that qualify as capitalizable borrowing costs for qualifying assets. Non-monetary items that are measured in terms of historical cost in a foreign currency are translated using the exchange rates as at the dates of the initial transactions. Non-monetary items measured at fair value in a foreign currency are translated using the exchange rates at the date when the fair value was determined. The gain or loss arising from transactions of non-monetary items measured at fair value is treated in line with the recognition of this gain or loss on the change in fair value of the items (i.e., translation differences on items whose fair value gain or loss is recognized in other comprehensive income or profit or loss are also recognized in other comprehensive income or profit or loss, respectively).

The functional currency of SMHC, FECL Group, PLDT Global and certain of its subsidiaries, DCPL, PGNL and certain of its subsidiaries, Chikka and certain of its subsidiaries and PGIC is the U.S. dollar; the functional currency of eInnovations, Takatack Holdings, Takatack Technologies, iCommerce, Fintech Ventures, ePay, 3rd Brand, CPL and AGSPL, is the Singapore dollar; the functional currency of CCCBL is the Chinese renminbi; the functional currency of AGS Malaysia is the Malaysian ringgit; and the functional currency of AGS Indonesia is the Indonesian rupiah. As at the reporting date, the assets and liabilities of these subsidiaries are translated into Philippine peso at the rate of exchange prevailing at the end of the reporting period, and income and expenses of these subsidiaries are translated monthly using the weighted average exchange rate for the month. The exchange differences arising on translation are recognized as a separate component of other comprehensive income as cumulative translation adjustments. On disposal of these subsidiaries, the amount of deferred cumulative translation adjustments recognized in other comprehensive income relating to subsidiaries is recognized in our consolidated income statement.

When there is a change in an entity’s functional currency, the entity applies the translation procedures applicable to the new functional currency prospectively from the date of the change. The entity translates all assets and liabilities into the new functional currency using the exchange rate at the date of the change. The resulting translated amounts for non-monetary items are treated as the new historical cost. Exchange differences arising from the translation of a foreign operation previously recognized in other comprehensive income are not reclassified from equity to profit or loss until the disposal of the operation.

Foreign exchange gains or losses of the Parent Company and our Philippine-based subsidiaries are treated as taxable income or deductible expenses in the period such exchange gains or losses are realized.

Any goodwill arising on the acquisition of a foreign operation and any fair value adjustments to the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities arising on the acquisition are treated as assets and liabilities of the foreign operation and translated at the closing rate.

Financial Instruments – Initial recognition and subsequent measurement

Financial Assets

Initial recognition and measurement

Financial assets within the scope of PAS 39 are classified as financial assets at fair value through profit or loss, or FVPL, loans and receivables, held-to-maturity, or HTM, investments, available-for-sale financial investments, or as derivatives designated as hedging instruments in an effective hedge, as appropriate. We determine the classification of financial assets at initial recognition and, where allowed and appropriate, re-evaluate the designation of such assets at each financial year-end.

Financial assets are recognized initially at fair value plus transaction costs that are attributable to the acquisition of the financial asset, except in the case of financial assets recorded at FVPL.

Purchases or sales of financial assets that require delivery of assets within a time frame established by regulation or convention in the market place (regular way purchases or sales) are recognized on the trade date, i.e., the date that we commit to purchase or sell the asset.

Subsequent measurement

The subsequent measurement of financial assets depends on the classification as described below:

Financial assets at FVPL

Financial assets at FVPL include financial assets held-for-trading and financial assets designated upon initial recognition at FVPL. Financial assets are classified as held-for-trading if they are acquired for the purpose of selling or repurchasing in the near term. Derivative assets, including separated embedded derivatives, are also classified as held-for-trading unless they are designated as effective hedging instruments as defined by PAS 39. Financial assets at FVPL are carried in our consolidated statement of financial position at fair value with net changes in fair value recognized in our consolidated income statement under “Gains (losses) on derivative financial instruments – net” for derivative instruments (negative net changes in fair value) and “Other income – net” for non-derivative financial assets (positive net changes in fair value). Interest earned and dividends received from financial assets at FVPL are recognized in our consolidated income statement under “Interest income” and “Other income – net”, respectively.

Financial assets may be designated at initial recognition as at FVPL if any of the following criteria are met: (i) the designation eliminates or significantly reduces the inconsistent treatment that would otherwise arise from measuring the assets or recognizing gains or losses on them on different bases; (ii) the assets are part of a group of financial assets which are managed and their performance are evaluated on a fair value basis, in accordance with a documented risk management strategy and information about the company is provided internally on that basis to the entity’s key management personnel; or (iii) the financial assets contain an embedded derivative, unless the embedded derivative does not significantly modify the cash flows or it is clear, with little or no analysis, that it would not be separately recorded.

An embedded derivative is separated from the host contract and accounted for as a derivative if all of the following conditions are met: (a) the economic characteristics and risks of the embedded derivatives are not closely related to the economic characteristics and risks of the host contract; (b) a separate instrument with the same terms as the embedded derivative would meet the definition of a derivative; and (c) the hybrid or combined instrument is not recognized at FVPL. These embedded derivatives are measured at fair value with gains or losses arising from changes in fair value recognized in our consolidated income statement. Reassessment only occurs if there is a change in the terms of the contract that significantly modifies the cash flows that would otherwise be required.

Our financial assets at FVPL include certain short-term investments and derivative financial assets as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015. See Note 28 – Financial Assets and Liabilities.

Loans and receivables

Loans and receivables are non-derivative financial assets with fixed or determinable payments which are not quoted in an active market. After initial measurement, such financial assets are carried at amortized cost using the effective interest rate, or EIR, method less impairment. This method uses an EIR that exactly discounts the estimated future cash payments or receipts over the expected life of the financial instrument or a shorter period, where appropriate, to the net carrying amount of the financial asset. Gains and losses are recognized in our consolidated income statement when the loans and receivables are derecognized or impaired, as well as through the amortization process. Interest earned is recorded in “Interest income” in our consolidated income statement. Assets in this category are included in the current assets except for those with maturities greater than 12 months after the end of the reporting period, which are classified as noncurrent assets.

Our loans and receivables include portions of investment in debt securities and other long-term investments, cash and cash equivalents, certain short-term investments, trade and other receivables and portions of advances and other noncurrent assets as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015. See Note 12 – Investment in Debt Securities and Other Long-term Investments, Note 16 – Cash and Cash Equivalents, Note 17 – Trade and Other Receivables and Note 28 – Financial Assets and Liabilities.

HTM investments

Non-derivative financial assets with fixed or determinable payments and fixed maturities are classified as HTM when we have the positive intention and ability to hold it to maturity. After initial measurement, HTM investments are measured at amortized cost using the EIR method. Gains or losses are recognized in our consolidated income statement when the investments are derecognized or impaired, as well as through the amortization process. Interest earned is recorded in “Interest income” in our consolidated income statement. Assets in this category are included in current assets except for those with maturities greater than 12 months after the end of the reporting period, which are classified as noncurrent assets.

Our HTM investments include portions of investment in debt securities and other long-term investments as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015. See Note 12 – Investment in Debt Securities and Other Long-term Investments and Note 28 – Financial Assets and Liabilities.

Available-for-sale financial investments

Available-for-sale financial investments include equity investments and debt securities. Equity investments classified as available-for-sale are those that are neither classified as held-for-trading nor designated at FVPL. Debt securities in this category are those that are intended to be held for an indefinite period of time and that may be sold in response to liquidity requirements or in response to changes in the market conditions.

After initial measurement, available-for-sale financial investments are subsequently measured at fair value with unrealized gains or losses recognized in other comprehensive income in the “Net gains (losses) on available-for-sale financial investments – net of tax” account until the investment is derecognized, at which time the cumulative gain or loss recorded in other comprehensive income is recognized in our consolidated income statement; or the investment is determined to be impaired, at which time the cumulative loss recorded in other comprehensive income is recognized in our consolidated income statement. Available-for-sale investments in equity instruments that do not have a quoted price in an active market and whose fair value cannot be reliably measured shall be measured at cost.

Interest earned on holding available-for-sale financial investments are included under “Interest income” using the EIR method in our consolidated income statement. Dividends earned on holding available-for-sale equity investments are recognized in our consolidated income statement under “Other income – net” when the right to receive payment has been established. These financial assets are included under noncurrent assets unless we intend to dispose of the investment within 12 months from the end of the reporting period.

We evaluate whether the ability and intention to sell our available-for-sale financial investments in the near term is still appropriate. When, in rare circumstances, we are unable to trade these financial investments due to inactive markets and management’s intention to do so significantly changes in the foreseeable future, we may elect to reclassify these financial investments. Reclassification to loans and receivables is permitted when the financial investments meet the definition of loans and receivables and we have the intent and ability to hold these assets for the foreseeable future or until maturity. Reclassification to the held-to-maturity category is permitted only when the entity has the ability and intention to hold the financial investment to maturity accordingly.

For a financial investment reclassified from the available-for-sale category, the fair value carrying amount at the date of reclassification becomes its new amortized cost and any previous gain or loss on the asset that has been recognized in other comprehensive income is amortized to profit or loss over the remaining life of the investment using the EIR method. Any difference between the new amortized cost and the maturity amount is also amortized over the remaining life of the asset using the EIR method. If the asset is subsequently determined to be impaired, then the amount recorded in other comprehensive income is reclassified to the consolidated income statement.

Our available-for-sale financial investments include listed and unlisted equity securities as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015. See Note 28 – Financial Assets and Liabilities.

Financial Liabilities

Initial recognition and measurement

Financial liabilities within the scope of PAS 39 are classified as financial liabilities at FVPL, other financial liabilities or as derivatives designated as hedging instruments in an effective hedge, as appropriate. We determine the classification of our financial liabilities at initial recognition.

Financial liabilities are recognized initially at fair value and, in the case of loans and borrowings, net of directly attributable transaction costs.

Subsequent measurement

The subsequent measurement of financial liabilities depends on their classification as described below:

Financial liabilities at FVPL

Financial liabilities at FVPL include financial liabilities held-for-trading and financial liabilities designated upon initial recognition as at FVPL. Financial liabilities are classified as held-for-trading if they are acquired for the purpose of selling in the near term. Derivative liabilities, including separated embedded derivatives are also classified as at FVPL unless they are designated as effective hedging instruments as defined by PAS 39. Financial liabilities at FVPL are carried in our consolidated statement of financial position at fair value with gains or losses on liabilities held-for-trading recognized in our consolidated income statement under “Gains (losses) on derivative financial instruments – net” for derivative instruments and “Other income – net” for non-derivative financial liabilities.

Financial liabilities may be designated at initial recognition as at FVPL if any of the following criteria are met: (i) the designation eliminates or significantly reduces the inconsistent treatment that would otherwise arise from measuring the liabilities or recognizing gains or losses on them on different bases; (ii) the liabilities are part of a group of financial liabilities which are managed and their performance are evaluated on a fair value basis, in accordance with a documented risk management strategy and information about the company is provided internally on that basis to the entity’s key management personnel; or (iii) the financial liabilities contain an embedded derivative, unless the embedded derivative does not significantly modify the cash flows or it is clear, with little or no analysis, that it would not be separately recorded.

Our financial liabilities at FVPL include long-term principal only-currency swaps and interest rate swaps as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015. See Note 28 – Financial Assets and Liabilities.

Other financial liabilities

After initial recognition, other financial liabilities are subsequently measured at amortized cost using the EIR method.

Gains and losses are recognized in our consolidated income statement when the liabilities are derecognized as well as through the EIR amortization process. Amortized cost is calculated by taking into account any discount or premium on acquisition and fees or costs that are an integral part of the EIR. The EIR amortization is included under “Financing costs – net” in our consolidated income statement.

Our other financial liabilities include accounts payable, accrued expenses and other current liabilities (except for statutory payables), interest-bearing financial liabilities, customers’ deposits, dividends payable, and accrual for long-term capital expenditures included under “Deferred credits and other noncurrent liabilities” account as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015. See Note 21 – Interest-bearing Financial Liabilities, Note 22 – Deferred Credits and Other Noncurrent Liabilities, Note 23 – Accounts Payable, and Note 24 – Accrued Expenses and Other Current Liabilities.

Offsetting of financial instruments

Financial assets and financial liabilities are offset and the net amount is reported in our consolidated statement of financial position if, and only if, there is a currently enforceable legal right to offset the recognized amounts and there is an intention to settle on a net basis, or to realize the assets and settle the liabilities simultaneously.

Amortized cost of financial instruments

Amortized cost is computed using the EIR method less any allowance for impairment and principal repayment or reduction. The calculation takes into account any premium or discount on acquisition and includes transaction costs and fees that are an integral part of the EIR.

“Day 1” difference

Where the transaction price in a non-active market is different from the fair value of other observable current market transactions in the same instrument or based on a valuation technique which variables include only data from observable market, we recognize the difference between the transaction price and fair value (a “Day 1” difference) in our consolidated income statement unless it qualifies for recognition as some other type of asset or liability. In cases where data used are not observable, the difference between the transaction price and model value is only recognized in our consolidated income statement when the inputs become observable or when the instrument is derecognized. For each transaction, we determine the appropriate method of recognizing the “Day 1” difference amount.

Impairment of Financial Assets

We assess at the end of each reporting period whether there is any objective evidence that a financial asset or a group of financial assets is impaired. A financial asset or a group of financial assets is deemed to be impaired if, and only if, there is objective evidence of impairment as a result of one or more events that have occurred after the initial recognition of the asset (an incurred “loss event”) and that loss event has an impact on the estimated future cash flows of the financial asset or the group of financial assets that can be reliably estimated. Evidence of impairment may include indications that the debtor or a group of debtors is experiencing significant financial difficulty, default or delinquency in interest or principal payments, the probability that the debtor will enter bankruptcy or other financial reorganization and where observable data indicate that there is a measurable decrease in the estimated future cash flows, such as changes in arrears or economic conditions that correlate with defaults.

Impairment of Trade and Other Receivables

Individual impairment

Retail subscribers

We recognize impairment losses for the whole amount of receivables from permanently disconnected wireless and fixed line subscribers. Permanent disconnections are made after a series of collection steps following nonpayment by postpaid subscribers. Such permanent disconnection usually occurs within a predetermined period from the last statement date.

We also recognize impairment losses for accounts with extended credit arrangements or promissory notes.

Regardless of the age of the account, additional impairment losses are also made for accounts specifically identified to be doubtful of collection when there is information on financial incapacity after considering the other contractual obligations between us and the subscriber.

Corporate subscribers

Receivables from corporate subscribers are provided with impairment losses when they are specifically identified as impaired. Full allowance is generally provided for the whole amount of receivables from corporate accounts based on aging of individual account balances. In making this assessment, we take into account normal payment cycle, counterparty’s payment history and industry-observed settlement periods.

Foreign administrations and domestic carriers

For receivables from foreign administration and domestic carriers, impairment losses are recognized when they are specifically identified as impaired regardless of the age of balances. Full allowance is generally provided after quarterly review of the status of settlement with the carriers. In making this assessment, we take into account normal payment cycle, counterparty carrier’s payment history and industry-observed settlement periods.

Dealers, agents and others

Similar to carrier accounts, we recognize impairment losses for the full amount of receivables from dealers, agents and other parties based on our specific assessment of individual balances based on age and payment habits, as applicable.

Collective impairment

Postpaid wireless and fixed line subscribers

We estimate impairment losses for temporarily disconnected accounts for both wireless and fixed line subscribers based on the historical trend of temporarily disconnected accounts which eventually become permanently disconnected. Temporary disconnection is initiated after a series of collection activities is implemented, including the sending of a collection letter, call-out reminders and collection messages via text messaging. Temporary disconnection generally happens 90 days after the due date of the unpaid balance. If the account is not settled within 60 days from temporary disconnection, the account is permanently disconnected.

We recognize impairment losses on our postpaid wireless and fixed line subscribers through net flow-rate methodology which is derived from account-level monitoring of subscriber accounts between different age brackets, from current to 120 days past due. The criterion adopted for making the allowance for doubtful accounts takes into consideration the calculation of the actual percentage of losses incurred on each range of accounts receivable.

Other subscribers

Receivables that have been assessed individually and found not to be impaired are then assessed collectively based on similar credit risk characteristics to determine whether provision should be made due to incurred loss events for which there is objective evidence but whose effects are not yet evident in the individual impairment assessment. Retail subscribers are provided with collective impairment based on a certain percentage derived from historical data/statistics.

See Note 3 – Management’s Use of Accounting Judgments, Estimates and Assumptions – Estimating Allowance for Doubtful Accounts – Impairment of non-financial assets, Note 17 – Trade and Other Receivables and Note 28 – Financial Assets and Liabilities – Impairment Assessments for further disclosures relating to impairment of financial assets.

Financial assets carried at amortized cost

For financial assets carried at amortized cost, we first assess whether objective evidence of impairment exists individually for financial assets that are individually significant, or collectively for financial assets that are not individually significant. If we determine that no objective evidence of impairment exists for an individually assessed financial asset, whether significant or not, we include the asset in a group of financial assets with similar credit risk characteristics and collectively assess them for impairment. Assets that are individually assessed for impairment and for which an impairment loss is, or continues to be, recognized are not included in a collective assessment of impairment.

If there is objective evidence that an impairment loss has been incurred, the amount of the loss is measured as the difference between the asset’s carrying amount and the present value of estimated future cash flows (excluding future expected credit losses that have not yet been incurred). The present value of the estimated future cash flows is discounted at the financial asset’s original EIR. If a financial asset has a variable interest rate, the discount rate for measuring any impairment loss is the current EIR.

The carrying amount of the asset is reduced through the use of an allowance account and the amount of the loss is recognized under “Asset impairment” in our consolidated income statement. Interest income continues to be accrued on the reduced carrying amount based on the original EIR of the asset. The financial asset together with the associated allowance are written-off when there is no realistic prospect of future recovery and all collateral has been realized or has been transferred to us. If, in a subsequent year, the amount of the estimated impairment loss increases or decreases because of an event occurring after the impairment was recognized, the previously recognized impairment loss is increased or reduced by adjusting the allowance account. Any subsequent reversal of an impairment loss is recognized in our consolidated income statement, to the extent that the carrying value of the asset does not exceed its original amortized cost at the reversal date. If a write-off is later recovered, the recovery is recognized in profit or loss.

Available-for-sale financial investments

For available-for-sale financial investments, we assess at each reporting date whether there is objective evidence that an investment or a group of investments is impaired.

In the case of equity investments classified as available-for-sale financial investments, objective evidence would include a significant or prolonged decline in the fair value of the investment below its cost. The determination of what is “significant” or “prolonged” requires judgment. We treat “significant” generally as decline of 20% or more below the original cost of investment, and “prolonged” as greater than 12 months assessed against the period in which the fair value has been below its original cost. When a decline in the fair value of an available-for-sale financial investment has been recognized in other comprehensive income and there is objective evidence that the asset is impaired, the cumulative loss that had been recognized in other comprehensive income is reclassified to profit or loss as a reclassification adjustment even though the financial asset has not been derecognized. The amount of the cumulative loss that is reclassified from other comprehensive income to profit or loss is the difference between the acquisition cost (net of any principal repayment and amortization) and the current fair value, less any impairment loss on that financial asset previously recognized in profit or loss. If available-for-sale equity security is impaired, any further decline in the fair value at subsequent reporting date is recognized as impairment. Therefore, at each reporting period, for an equity security that was determined to be impaired, additional impairments are recognized for the difference between fair value and the original cost, less any previously recognized impairment. Impairment losses on equity investments are not reversed in profit or loss. Subsequent increases in the fair value after impairment are recognized in other comprehensive income.

In the case of debt instruments classified as available-for-sale financial investments, impairment is assessed based on the same criteria as financial assets carried at amortized cost. However, the amount recorded for impairment is the cumulative loss measured as the difference between the amortized cost and the current fair value, less any impairment loss on that investment previously recognized in our consolidated income statement. Future interest income continues to be accrued based on the reduced carrying amount of the asset, using the rate of interest used to discount future cash flows for the purpose of measuring impairment loss. Such accrual is recorded as part of “Interest income” in our consolidated income statement. If, in a subsequent year, the fair value of a debt instrument increases and the increase can be objectively related to an event occurring after the impairment loss was recognized in our consolidated income statement, the impairment loss is reversed in profit or loss.

Derecognition of Financial Assets and Liabilities

Financial assets

A financial asset (or where applicable as part of a financial asset or part of a group of similar financial assets) is primarily derecognized when: (1) the right to receive cash flows from the asset has expired; or (2) we have transferred the right to receive cash flows from the asset or have assumed an obligation to pay the received cash flows in full without material delay to a third party under a “pass-through” arrangement; and either: (a) we have transferred substantially all the risks and rewards of the asset; or (b) we have neither transferred nor retained substantially all the risks and rewards of the asset, but have transferred control of the asset.

When we have transferred the right to receive cash flows from an asset or have entered into a “pass-through” arrangement, and have neither transferred nor retained substantially all the risks and rewards of the asset nor transferred control of the asset, a new asset is recognized to the extent of our continuing involvement in the asset.

Continuing involvement that takes the form of a guarantee over the transferred asset is measured at the lower of the original carrying amount of the asset and the maximum amount of consideration that we could be required to repay.

When continuing involvement takes the form of a written and/or purchased option (including a cash-settled option or similar provision) on the transferred asset, the extent of our continuing involvement is the amount of the transferred asset that we may repurchase, except that in the case of a written put option (including a cash-settled option or similar provision) on an asset measured at fair value, the extent of our continuing involvement is limited to the lower of the fair value of the transferred asset and the option exercise price.

Financial liabilities

A financial liability is derecognized when the obligation under the liability is discharged or cancelled or has expired.

When an existing financial liability is replaced by another from the same lender on substantially different terms, or the terms of an existing liability are substantially modified, such an exchange or modification is treated as a derecognition of the original liability and the recognition of a new liability, and the difference in the carrying amount of a financial liability extinguished or transferred to another party and the consideration paid, including any non-cash assets transferred or liabilities assumed, is recognized in profit or loss.

The financial liability is also derecognized when equity instruments are issued to extinguish all or part of the financial liability. The equity instruments issued are recognized at fair value if it can be reliably measured, otherwise, it is recognized at the fair value of the financial liability extinguished. Any difference between the fair value of the equity instruments issued and the carrying value of the financial liability extinguished is recognized in profit or loss.

Derivative Financial Instruments and Hedge Accounting

Initial recognition and subsequent measurement

We use derivative financial instruments, such as long-term currency swaps, foreign currency options, forward currency contracts and interest rate swaps to hedge our risks associated with foreign currency fluctuations and interest rate. Such derivative financial instruments are initially recognized at fair value on the date on which a derivative contract is entered into and are subsequently remeasured at fair value. Derivatives are carried as financial assets when the fair value is positive and as financial liabilities when the fair value is negative.

The fair value of forward currency contracts is calculated by reference to current forward exchange rates for contracts with similar maturity profiles. The fair value of long-term currency swaps, foreign currency options, forward currency contracts and interest rate swap contracts is determined using applicable valuation techniques. See Note 28 – Financial Assets and Liabilities.

Any gains or losses arising from changes in fair value on derivatives during the period that do not qualify for hedge accounting are taken directly to the “Gains (losses) on derivative financial instruments – net” in our consolidated income statement.

For the purpose of hedge accounting, hedges are classified as: (1) fair value hedges when hedging the exposure to changes in the fair value of a recognized financial asset or liability or an unrecognized firm commitment (except for foreign currency risk); or (2) cash flow hedges when hedging exposure to variability in cash flows that is either attributable to a particular risk associated with a recognized financial asset or liability, a highly probable forecast transaction or the foreign currency risk in an unrecognized firm commitment; or (3) hedges of a net investment in a foreign operation.

At the inception of a hedge relationship, we formally designate and document the hedge relationship to which we wish to apply hedge accounting and the risk management objective and strategy for undertaking the hedge. The documentation includes identification of the hedging instrument, the hedged item or transaction, the nature of the risk being hedged and how we will assess the hedging instrument’s effectiveness in offsetting the exposure to changes in the hedged item’s fair value or cash flows attributable to the hedged risk. Such hedges are expected to be highly effective in achieving offsetting changes in fair value or cash flows and are assessed on an on-going basis to determine that they actually have been highly effective throughout the financial reporting periods for which they are designated. In a situation when that hedged item is a forecast transaction, we assess whether the transaction is highly probable and presents an exposure to variations in cash flows that could ultimately affect our consolidated income statement.

Hedges which meet the strict criteria for hedge accounting are accounted for as follows:

Fair value hedges

The change in the fair value of a hedging derivative is recognized in our consolidated income statement. The change in the fair value of the hedged item attributable to the risk being hedged is recorded as part of the carrying value of the hedged item and is also recognized in our consolidated income statement.

The fair value for financial instruments traded in active markets at the end of the reporting period is based on their quoted market price or dealer price quotations (bid price for long positions and ask price for short positions), without any deduction for transaction costs. When current bid and asking prices are not available, the price of the most recent transaction provides evidence of the current fair value as long as there has not been a significant change in economic circumstances since the time of the transaction. For all other financial instruments not listed in an active market, the fair value is determined by using appropriate valuation techniques. Valuation techniques include net present value techniques, comparison to similar instruments for which market observable prices exist, option pricing models and other relevant valuation models.

When an unrecognized firm commitment is designated as a hedged item, the subsequent cumulative change in the fair value of the firm commitment attributable to the hedged risk is recognized as a financial asset or liability with a corresponding gain or loss recognized in our consolidated income statement. The changes in the fair value of the hedging instrument are also recognized in our consolidated income statement.

Cash flow hedges

The effective portion of the gain or loss on the hedging instrument is recognized in other comprehensive income, while any ineffective portion is recognized immediately in our consolidated income statement. See Note 28 – Financial Assets and Liabilities for more details.

Amounts taken to other comprehensive income are transferred to our consolidated income statement when the hedged transaction affects our consolidated income statement, such as when the hedged financial income or financial expense is recognized or when a forecast sale occurs. Where the hedged item is the cost of a non-financial asset or non-financial liability, the amounts taken to other comprehensive income are transferred to the initial carrying amount of the non-financial asset or liability.

If the forecast transaction or firm commitment is no longer expected to occur, amounts previously recognized in other comprehensive income are transferred to our consolidated income statement. If the hedging instrument expires or is sold, terminated or exercised without replacement or rollover, or if its designation as a hedge is revoked, amounts previously recognized in other comprehensive income remain in other comprehensive income until the forecast transaction or firm commitment occurs.

We use an interest rate swap agreement to hedge our interest rate exposure on certain outstanding loan balances. See Note 28 – Financial Assets and Liabilities.

Hedges of a net investment in a foreign operation

Hedges of a net investment in a foreign operation, including a hedge of a monetary item that is accounted for as part of the net investment, are accounted for in a way similar to cash flow hedges. Gains or losses on the hedging instrument relating to the effective portion of the hedge are recognized in other comprehensive income while any gains or losses relating to the ineffective portion are recognized in our consolidated income statement. On disposal of the foreign operation, the cumulative value of any such gains or losses recognized in other comprehensive income is transferred to our consolidated income statement.

We use a loan as a hedge of its exposure to foreign exchange risk on its investment in foreign subsidiaries. See Note 28 – Financial Assets and Liabilities for more details.

Current versus noncurrent classification

Derivative instruments that are not designated as effective hedging instruments are classified as current or noncurrent or separated into a current and noncurrent portion based on an assessment of the facts and circumstances (i.e., the underlying contracted cash flows).

Where we expect to hold a derivative as an economic hedge (and does not apply hedge accounting) for a period beyond 12 months after the reporting date, the derivative is classified as noncurrent (or separated into current and noncurrent portions) consistent with the classification of the underlying item.

Embedded derivatives that are not closely related to the host contract are classified consistent with the cash flows of the host contract.

Derivative instruments that are designated as effective hedging instruments are classified consistently with the classification of the underlying hedged item. The derivative instrument is separated into a current portion and a noncurrent portion only if a reliable allocation can be made.

We recognize transfers into and transfers out of fair value hierarchy levels as at the date of the event or change in circumstances that caused the transfer.

Property and Equipment

Property and equipment, except for land, is stated at cost less accumulated depreciation and amortization and any accumulated impairment losses. Land is stated at cost less any impairment in value. The initial cost of property and equipment comprises its purchase price, including import duties and non-refundable purchase taxes and any directly attributable costs of bringing the property and equipment to its working condition and location for its intended use. Such cost includes the cost of replacing component parts of the property and equipment when the cost is incurred, if the recognition criteria are met. When significant parts of property and equipment are required to be replaced at intervals, we recognize such parts as individual assets with specific useful lives and depreciate them accordingly. Likewise, when a major inspection is performed, its cost is recognized in the carrying amount of the property and equipment as a replacement if the recognition criteria are satisfied. All other repairs and maintenance costs are recognized as expense as incurred. The present value of the expected cost for the decommissioning of the asset after use is included in the cost of the asset if the recognition criteria for a provision are met.

Depreciation and amortization commence once the property and equipment are available for their intended use and are calculated on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful lives of the assets. The estimated useful lives used in depreciating our property and equipment are disclosed in Note 9 – Property and Equipment.

The residual values, estimated useful lives, and methods of depreciation and amortization are reviewed at least at each financial year-end and adjusted prospectively, if appropriate.

An item of property and equipment and any significant part initially recognized are derecognized upon disposal or when no future economic benefits are expected from its use or disposal. Any gain or loss arising on derecognition of the asset (calculated as the difference between the net disposal proceeds and the carrying amount of the asset) is included in profit or loss when the asset is derecognized.

Property under construction is stated at cost less any impairment in value. This includes cost of construction, plant and equipment, capitalizable borrowing costs and other direct costs associated to construction. Property under construction is not depreciated until such time that the relevant assets are completed and available for its intended use.

Construction-in-progress is transferred to the related property and equipment when the construction or installation and related activities necessary to prepare the property and equipment for their intended use have been completed, and the property and equipment are ready for operational use.

Borrowing Costs

Borrowing costs are capitalized if they are directly attributable to the acquisition, construction or production of a qualifying asset. Qualifying assets are assets that necessarily take a substantial period of time to get ready for their intended use or sale.

All other borrowing costs are expensed as incurred. Borrowing costs consist of interest and other costs that an entity incurs in connection with the borrowing of funds.

Asset Retirement Obligations

We are legally required under various lease agreements to dismantle the installation in leased sites and restore such sites to their original condition at the end of the lease contract term. We recognize the liability measured at the present value of the estimated costs of these obligations and capitalize such costs as part of the balance of the related item of property and equipment. The amount of asset retirement obligations are accreted and such accretion is recognized as interest expense. See Note 9 – Property and Equipment and Note 22 – Deferred Credits and Other Noncurrent Liabilities.

Investment Properties

Investment properties are initially measured at cost, including transaction costs. Subsequent to initial recognition, investment properties are stated at fair value, which reflects market conditions at the reporting date. Gains or losses arising from changes in the fair values of investment properties are included in our consolidated income statement in the period in which they arise, including the corresponding tax effect. Fair values are determined based on an amount evaluation performed by a Philippine SEC accredited external independent valuer applying a valuation model recommended by the International Valuation Standards Committee.

Investment properties are derecognized when they are disposed of or when they are permanently withdrawn from use and no future economic benefit is expected from their disposal. Any gain or loss on the retirement or disposal of an investment property is recognized in our consolidated income statement in the year of retirement or disposal.

Transfers are made to or from investment property only when there is a change in use. For a transfer from investment property to owner-occupied property, the deemed cost for subsequent accounting is the fair value at the date of change in use. If owner-occupied property becomes an investment property, we account for such property in accordance with the policy stated under property and equipment up to the date of change in use. The difference between the carrying amount of the owner-occupied property and its fair value at the date of change is accounted for as revaluation increment recognized in other comprehensive income. On subsequent disposal of the investment property, the revaluation increment recognized in other comprehensive income is transferred to retained earnings.

No assets held under operating lease have been classified as investment properties.

Intangible Assets

Intangible assets acquired separately are measured at cost on initial recognition. The cost of intangible assets acquired from business combinations is initially recognized at fair value on the date of acquisition. Following initial recognition, intangible assets are carried at cost less any accumulated amortization and accumulated impairment losses. The useful lives of intangible assets are assessed at the individual asset level as either finite or indefinite.

Intangible assets with finite lives are amortized over the useful economic life using the straight-line method and assessed for impairment whenever there is an indication that the intangible assets may be impaired. At the minimum, the amortization period and the amortization method for an intangible asset with a finite useful life are reviewed at each financial year-end. Changes in the expected useful life or the expected pattern of consumption of future economic benefits embodied in the asset are accounted for by changing the amortization period or method, as appropriate, and treated as changes in accounting estimates. The amortization expense on intangible assets with finite lives is recognized in our consolidated income statement.

Intangible assets with indefinite useful lives are not amortized, but are tested for impairment annually either individually or at the CGU level. The useful life of an intangible asset with an indefinite life is reviewed annually to determine whether the indefinite life assessment continues to be supportable. If not, the change in the useful life assessment from indefinite to finite is made on a prospective basis.

The estimated useful lives used in amortizing our intangible assets are disclosed in Note 15 – Goodwill and Intangible Assets.

Gains or losses arising from derecognition of an intangible asset are measured as the difference between the net disposal proceeds and the carrying amount of the asset, and are recognized in our consolidated income statement when the asset is derecognized.

Internally generated intangibles are not capitalized and the related expenditures are charged against operations in the period in which the expenditures are incurred.

Inventories and Supplies

Inventories and supplies, which include cellular and landline phone units, materials, spare parts, terminal units and accessories, are valued at the lower of cost and net realizable value.

Costs incurred in bringing inventories and supplies to its present location and condition are accounted for using the weighted average cost method. Net realizable value is determined by either estimating the selling price in the ordinary course of business, less the estimated cost to sell or determining the prevailing replacement costs.

Impairment of Non-Financial Assets

We assess at each reporting period whether there is an indication that an asset may be impaired. If any indication exists, or when the annual impairment testing for an asset is required, we make an estimate of the asset’s recoverable amount. An asset’s recoverable amount is the higher of an asset’s or CGU’s fair value less costs of disposal and its value in use. The recoverable amount is determined for an individual asset, unless the asset does not generate cash inflows that are largely independent from those of other assets or groups of assets. When the carrying amount of an asset or CGU exceeds its recoverable amount, the asset is considered impaired and is written down to its recoverable amount.

In assessing the value in use, the estimated future cash flows are discounted to their present value using a pre-tax discount rate that reflects current market assessments of the time value of money and the risks specific to the asset. In determining the fair value less costs of disposal, recent market transactions are taken into account. If no such transactions can be identified, an appropriate valuation model is used. Impairment losses are recognized in our consolidated income statement.

For assets, excluding goodwill, an assessment is made at each reporting date to determine whether there is an indication that previously recognized impairment losses no longer exist or have decreased. If such indication exists, we make an estimate of the recoverable amount. A previously recognized impairment loss is reversed only if there has been a change in the assumptions used to determine the asset’s recoverable amount since the last impairment loss was recognized. If this is the case, the carrying amount of the asset is increased to its recoverable amount. The increased amount cannot exceed the carrying amount that would have been determined, net of depreciation and amortization, had no impairment loss been recognized for the asset in prior years. Such reversal is recognized in our consolidated income statement. After such reversal, the depreciation and amortization charges are adjusted in future years to allocate the asset’s revised carrying amount, less any residual value, on a systematic basis over its remaining economic useful life.

The following assets have specific characteristics for impairment testing:

Property and equipment and intangible assets with definite useful lives

For property and equipment, we also assess for impairment on the basis of impairment indicators such as evidence of internal obsolescence or physical damage. See Note 3 – Management’s Use of Accounting Judgments, Estimates and Assumptions – Impairment of non-financial assets, Note 9 – Property and Equipment and Note 15 – Goodwill and Intangible Assets for further disclosures relating to impairment of non-financial assets.

Investments in associates and joint ventures

We determine at the end of each reporting period whether there is any objective evidence that our investments in associates and joint ventures are impaired. If this is the case, the amount of impairment is calculated as the difference between the recoverable amount of the investments in associates and joint ventures, and its carrying amount. The amount of impairment loss is recognized in our consolidated income statement. See Note 10 – Investments in Associates and Joint Ventures for further disclosures relating to impairment of non-financial assets.

Goodwill

Goodwill is tested for impairment annually as at December 31, and when circumstances indicate that the carrying value may be impaired. Impairment is determined for goodwill by assessing the recoverable amount of each CGU, or group of CGUs, to which the goodwill relates. When the recoverable amount of the CGU, or group of CGUs, is less than the carrying amount of the CGU, or group of CGUs, to which goodwill has been allocated, an impairment loss is recognized. Impairment losses relating to goodwill cannot be reversed in future periods.

Intangible assets with indefinite useful lives

Intangible assets with indefinite useful lives are not amortized but are tested for impairment annually either individually or at the CGU level, as appropriate. We calculate the amount of impairment as being the difference between the recoverable amount of the intangible asset or the CGU, and its carrying amount and recognize the amount of impairment in our consolidated income statement. Impairment losses relating to intangible assets can be reversed in future periods.

See Note 3 – Management’s Use of Accounting Judgments, Estimates and Assumptions – Impairment of non-financial assets and Note 15 – Goodwill and Intangible Assets – Impairment Testing of Goodwill and Intangible Assets with Indefinite Life for further disclosures relating to impairment of non-financial assets.

Investment in Debt Securities

Investment in debt securities are government securities which are carried at amortized cost using the EIR method. Interest earned from these securities is recognized under “Interest income” in our consolidated income statement.

Cash and Cash Equivalents

Cash includes cash on hand and in banks. Cash equivalents, which include temporary cash investments, are short-term, highly liquid investments that are readily convertible to known amounts of cash with original maturities of three months or less from the date of acquisition, and for which there is an insignificant risk of change in value.

Short-term Investments

Short-term investments are money market placements, which are highly liquid with maturities of more than three months but less than one year from the date of acquisition.

Fair value measurement

We measure financial instruments such as derivatives, available-for-sale financial investments, certain short-term investments and non-financial assets such as investment properties, at fair value at each reporting date. Also, fair values of financial instruments measured at amortized cost are disclosed in
Note 28 – Financial Assets and Liabilities.

Fair value is the estimated price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. The fair value measurement is based on the presumption that the transaction to sell the asset or transfer the liability takes place either:
(i) in the principal market for the asset or liability, or (ii) in the absence of a principal market, in the most advantageous market for the asset or liability.

The principal or the most advantageous market must be accessible by us.

The fair value of an asset or a liability is measured using the assumptions that market participants would use when pricing the asset or liability, assuming that market participants act in their economic best interest.

A fair value measurement of a non-financial asset takes into account a market participant’s ability to generate economic benefits by using the asset in its highest and best use or by selling it to another market participant that would use the asset in its highest and best use.

We use valuation techniques that are appropriate in the circumstances and for which sufficient data are available to measure fair value, maximizing the use of relevant observable inputs and minimizing the use of unobservable inputs.

All assets and liabilities for which fair value is measured or disclosed in the financial statements are categorized within the fair value hierarchy, described as follows, based on the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement as a whole: (i) Level 1 — Quoted (unadjusted) market prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities; (ii) Level 2 — Valuation techniques for which the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement is directly or indirectly observable; and
(iii) Level 3 — Valuation techniques for which the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement is unobservable.

For assets and liabilities that are recognized in the financial statements on a recurring basis, we determine whether transfers have occurred between levels in the hierarchy by re-assessing categorization (based on the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement as a whole) at the end of each reporting period.

We determine the policies and procedures for both recurring fair value measurement, such as investment properties and unquoted available-for-sale financial assets, and for non-recurring measurement, such as assets held for distribution in discontinued operation.

External valuers are involved for valuation of significant assets, such as certain short-term investments and investment properties. Involvement of external valuers is decided upon annually. Selection criteria include market knowledge, reputation, independence and whether professional standards are maintained. At each reporting date, we analyze the movements in the values of assets and liabilities which are required to be re-measured or re-assessed as per our accounting policies. For this analysis, we verify the major inputs applied in the latest valuation by agreeing the information in the valuation computation to contracts and other relevant documents.

We, in conjunction with our external valuers, also compare the changes in the fair value of each asset and liability with relevant external sources to determine whether the change is reasonable. This includes a discussion of the major assumptions used in the valuations. For the purpose of fair value disclosures, we have determined classes of assets and liabilities on the basis of the nature, characteristics and risks of the asset or liability and the level of the fair value hierarchy as explained above.

Revenue Recognition

Revenue is recognized to the extent that it is probable that the economic benefits will flow to us and the revenue can be reliably measured, regardless of when the payment is received. Revenue is measured at the fair value of the consideration received or receivable, taking into account contractually defined terms of payment and excluding value-added tax, or VAT, or overseas communication tax, or OCT, where applicable. When deciding the most appropriate basis for presenting revenue and cost of revenue, we assess our revenue arrangements against specific criteria to determine if we are acting as principal or agent. We consider both the legal form and the substance of our agreement, to determine each party’s respective roles in the agreement. We are acting as a principal when we have the significant risks and rewards associated with the rendering of telecommunication services. When our role in a transaction is that of principal, revenue is presented on a gross basis, otherwise, revenue is presented on a net basis.

Service revenues

Our revenues are principally derived from providing the following telecommunications services: cellular voice and data services in the wireless business; and local exchange, international and national long distance, data and other network, and information and communications services in the fixed line business. When determining the amount of revenue to be recognized in any period, the overriding principle followed is to match the revenue with the cost of the provision of service. Services may be rendered separately or bundled with goods or other services. The specific recognition criteria are as follows:

Subscribers

We provide telephone, cellular and data communication services under prepaid and postpaid payment arrangements as follows:

Postpaid service arrangements include fixed monthly charges (including excess of consumable fixed monthly service fees) generated from postpaid cellular voice, short messaging services, or SMS, and data services through the postpaid plans of Smart and Sun Cellular, from cellular and local exchange services primarily through wireless, landline and related services, and from data and other network services primarily through broadband and leased line services, which we recognize on a straight-line basis over the customer’s subscription period. Services provided to postpaid subscribers are billed throughout the month according to the billing cycles of subscribers. Services availed by subscribers in addition to these fixed fee arrangements are charged separately and recognized as the additional service is provided or as availed by the subscribers.

Our prepaid services include over-the-air reloading channels and prepaid cards provided by Smart Prepaid, TNT (formerly Talk ‘N Text) and Sun Cellular Prepaid. Proceeds from over-the-air reloading channels and prepaid cards are initially recognized as unearned revenue and realized upon actual usage of the airtime value (i.e., the pre-loaded airtime value of subscriber identification module, or SIM, cards and subsequent top-ups) for voice, SMS, multimedia messaging services, or MMS, content downloading (inclusive of browsing), infotext services and prepaid unlimited and bucket-priced SMS and call subscriptions, net of free SMS allocation and bonus credits (load package purchased, i.e., free additional SMS or minute calls or Peso credits), or upon expiration of the usage period, whichever comes earlier. Interconnection fees and charges arising from the actual usage of airtime value or subscriptions are recorded as incurred.

Revenue from international and national long distance calls carried via our network is generally based on rates which vary with distance and type of service (direct dial or operator-assisted, paid or collect, etc.). Revenue from both wireless and fixed line long distance calls is recognized as the service is provided.

Non-recurring upfront fees such as activation fees charged to subscribers for connection to our network are deferred and are recognized as revenue throughout the estimated average length of customer relationship. The related incremental costs are similarly deferred and recognized over the same period in our consolidated income statement.

Connecting carriers

Interconnection revenues for call termination, call transit and network usages are recognized in the period in which the traffic occurs. Revenues related to local, long distance, network-to-network, roaming and international call connection services are recognized when the call is placed or connection is provided and the equivalent amounts charged to us by other carriers are recorded under interconnection costs in our consolidated income statement. Inbound revenue and outbound charges are based on agreed transit and termination rates with other foreign and local carriers.

Value-Added Services, or VAS

Revenues from VAS include MMS, downloading and streamlining of contents, applications and other digital services and infotext services. The amount of revenue recognized is net of payout to content provider’s share in revenue. Revenue is recognized upon service availment.

Incentives

We operate customer loyalty programmes in our wireless business which allows customers to accumulate points when they purchase services or prepaid credits from us. The points can then be redeemed for free services and discounts, subject to a minimum number of points being obtained. Consideration received is allocated between the services and prepaid credits sold and the points issued, with the consideration allocated to the points equal to their value. The fair value of the points issued is deferred and recognized as revenue when the points are redeemed.

Product-based incentives provided to retailers and customers as part of a transaction are accounted for as multiple element arrangements and recognized when earned.

Multiple-deliverable arrangements

In revenue arrangements, which involve bundled sales of mobile devices, SIM cards/packs and accessories (non-service deliverable) and telecommunication services (service deliverable), the total arrangement consideration is allocated to each component based on their relative fair value to reflect the substance of the transaction. Revenues from sale of non-service component are recognized when the goods are delivered while revenues from telecommunication services component are recognized when the services are provided to subscribers. When fair value is not directly observable, the total consideration is allocated using an appropriate allocation method.

Other services

Revenue from server hosting, co-location services and customer support services are recognized as the service is performed.

Non-service revenues

Revenues from handset and equipment sales are recognized when the significant risks and rewards of ownership of the goods have passed to the buyer, usually on delivery of the goods. The related cost or net realizable value of handsets or equipment, sold to customers is presented as “Cost of sales” in our consolidated income statement.

Interest income

Interest income is recognized as it accrues on a time proportion basis taking into account the principal amount outstanding and the EIR.

Dividend income

Revenue is recognized when our right to receive the payment is established.

Expenses

Expenses are recognized as incurred.

Provisions

We recognize a provision when we have a present obligation, legal or constructive, as a result of a past event, and when it is probable that an outflow of resources embodying economic benefits will be required to settle the obligation and a reliable estimate can be made of the amount of the obligation. When we expect some or all of a provision to be reimbursed, the reimbursement is recognized as a separate asset, but only when the reimbursement is virtually certain to be received if the entity settles the obligation. The expense relating to any provision is presented in our consolidated income statement, net of any reimbursements. If the effect of the time value of money is material, provisions are discounted using a current pre-tax rate that reflects, where appropriate, the risks specific to the liability. Where discounting is used, the increase in the provision due to the passage of time is recognized as interest expense.

Retirement Benefits

Defined benefit pension plans

PLDT has separate and distinct retirement plans for itself and majority of its Philippine-based operating subsidiaries, administered by the respective Funds’ Trustees, covering permanent employees. Retirement costs are separately determined using the projected unit credit method. This method reflects services rendered by employees to the date of valuation and incorporates assumptions concerning employees’ projected salaries.

Retirement costs consist of the following:

Service cost;
Net interest on the net defined benefit asset or obligation; and
Remeasurements of net defined benefit asset or obligation

Service cost (which includes current service costs, past service costs and gains or losses on curtailments and non-routine settlements) is recognized as part of “Compensation and employee benefits” account in our consolidated income statement. These amounts are calculated periodically by an independent qualified actuary.

Net interest on the net defined benefit asset or obligation is the change during the period in the net defined benefit asset or obligation that arises from the passage of time which is determined by applying the discount rate based on the government bonds to the net defined benefit asset or obligation. Net deferred benefit asset is recognized as part of advances and other noncurrent assets and net defined benefit obligation is recognized as part of pension and other employee benefits in our consolidated statement of financial position.

Remeasurements, comprising actuarial gains and losses, return on plan assets and any change in the effect of the asset ceiling (excluding net interest on defined benefit obligation) are recognized immediately in other comprehensive income in the period in which they occur. Remeasurements are not classified to profit or loss in subsequent periods.

The net defined benefit asset or obligation comprises the present value of the defined benefit obligation (using a discount rate based on government bonds, as explained in Note 3 – Management’s Use of Accounting Judgments, Estimates and Assumptions – Estimating pension benefit costs and other employee benefits), net of the fair value of plan assets out of which the obligations are to be settled directly. Plan assets are assets held by a long-term employee benefit fund or qualifying insurance policies and are not available to our creditors nor can they be paid directly to us. Fair value is based on market price information and in the case of quoted securities, the published bid price and in the case of unquoted securities, the discounted cash flow using the income approach. The value of any defined benefit asset recognized is restricted to the asset ceiling which is the present value of any economic benefits available in the form of refunds from the plan or reductions in the future contributions to the plan. See Note 26 – Employee Benefits – Defined Benefit Pension Plans for more details.

Defined contribution plans

Smart and certain of its subsidiaries maintain a defined contribution plan that covers all regular full-time employees under which it pays fixed contributions based on the employees’ monthly salaries. Smart and certain of its subsidiaries, however, are covered under Republic Act 7641, or R.A. 7641, otherwise known as “The Philippine Retirement Law”, which provides for qualified employees to receive a defined benefit minimum guarantee. The defined benefit minimum guarantee is equivalent to a certain percentage of the monthly salary payable to an employee at normal retirement age with the required credited years of service based on the provisions of R.A. 7641.

Accordingly, Smart and certain of its subsidiaries account for their retirement obligation under the higher of the defined benefit obligation related to the minimum guarantee and the obligation arising from the defined contribution plan.

For the defined benefit minimum guarantee plan, the liability is determined based on the present value of the excess of the projected defined benefit obligation over the projected defined contribution obligation at the end of the reporting period. The defined benefit obligation is calculated annually by a qualified independent actuary using the projected unit credit method. Smart and certain of its subsidiaries determines the net interest expense (income) on the net defined benefit liability (asset) for the period by applying the discount rate used to measure the defined benefit obligation at the beginning of the annual period to the then net defined benefit liability (asset), taking into account any changes in the net defined benefit liability (asset) during the period as a result of contributions and benefit payments. Net interest expense (income) and other expenses (income) related to the defined benefit plan are recognized in our profit or loss.

The defined contribution liability, on the other hand, is measured at the fair value of the defined contribution assets upon which the defined contribution benefits depend, with an adjustment for margin on asset returns, if any, where this is reflected in the defined contribution benefits.

Remeasurements of the net defined benefit liability, which comprise actuarial gains and losses, the return on plan assets (excluding interest) and the effect of the asset ceiling (if any, excluding interest), are recognized immediately in our other comprehensive income.

When the benefits of the plan are changed or when the plan is curtailed, the resulting change in benefit that relates to past service or the gain or loss on curtailment is recognized immediately in our profit or loss. Gains or losses on the settlement of the defined benefit plan are recognized when the settlement occurs. See Note 26 – Employee Benefits – Defined Contribution Plans for more details.

Other Long-term Employee Benefits

Our liability arising from the 2012 to 2014 Long-term Incentive Plan, or the 2012 to 2014 LTIP, is determined using the projected unit credit method. Employee benefit costs include current service cost, net interest on the net defined benefit obligation, and remeasurements of the net defined benefit obligation. Past service costs and actuarial gains and losses are recognized immediately in our profit or loss.

The long-term employee benefit liability comprises the present value of the defined benefit obligation (using a discount rate based on government bonds) at the end of the reporting period.

Leases

The determination of whether an arrangement is, or contains, a lease is based on the substance of the arrangement at inception date. The arrangement is assessed for whether the fulfillment of the arrangement is dependent on the use of a specific asset or assets and the arrangement conveys a right to use the asset or assets, even if that right is not explicitly specified in an arrangement. A reassessment is made after the inception of the lease only if one of the following applies: (a) there is a change in contractual terms, other than a renewal or extension of the agreement; (b) a renewal option is exercised or extension granted, unless the term of the renewal or extension was initially included in the lease term; (c) there is a change in the determination of whether the fulfillment is dependent on a specified asset; or (d) there is a substantial change to the asset.

Where a reassessment is made, lease accounting shall commence or cease from the date when the change in circumstances gave rise to the reassessment for scenarios (a), (c) or (d) and the date of renewal or extension period for scenario (b).

As a Lessor. Leases where we retain substantially all the risks and benefits of ownership of the asset are classified as operating leases. Any initial direct costs incurred in negotiating an operating lease are added to the carrying amount of the leased asset and recognized over the lease term on the same bases as rental income. Rental income is recognized in our consolidated income statement on a straight-line basis over the lease term.

All other leases are classified as finance leases. At the inception of the finance lease, the asset subject to lease agreement is derecognized and lease receivable is recognized. Interest income is accrued over the lease term using the EIR and lease amortization is accounted for as reduction of lease receivable.

As a Lessee. Leases where the lessor retains substantially all the risks and benefits of ownership of the assets are classified as operating leases. Operating lease payments are recognized as expense in our consolidated income statement on a straight-line basis over the lease term.

All other leases are classified as finance leases. A finance lease gives rise to the recognition of a leased asset and finance lease liability. Capitalized leased assets are depreciated over the shorter of the estimated useful life of the asset or the lease term, if there is no reasonable certainty that we will obtain ownership of the leased asset at the end of the lease term. Interest expense is recognized over the lease term using the EIR.

Income Taxes

Current income tax

Current income tax assets and liabilities for the current and prior years are measured at the amount expected to be recovered from or paid to the taxation authorities. The tax rates and tax laws used to compute the amount are those that are enacted or substantively enacted as at the end of the reporting period where we operate and generate taxable income.

Deferred income tax

Deferred income tax is provided using the balance sheet liability method on all temporary differences between the tax bases of assets and liabilities and their carrying amounts for financial reporting purposes at the end of the reporting period.

Deferred income tax liabilities are recognized for all taxable temporary differences except: (1) when the deferred income tax liability arises from the initial recognition of goodwill or of an asset or liability in a transaction that is not a business combination and, at the time of the transaction, affects neither the accounting profit nor taxable profit or loss; and (2) with respect to taxable temporary differences associated with investments in subsidiaries, associates and interest in joint ventures, when the timing of the reversal of the temporary differences can be controlled and it is probable that the temporary differences will not reverse in the foreseeable future.

Deferred income tax assets are recognized for all deductible temporary differences, the carryforward benefits of unused tax credits from excess minimum corporate income tax, or MCIT, over regular corporate income tax, or RCIT, and unused net operating loss carry over, or NOLCO. Deferred income tax assets are recognized to the extent that it is probable that taxable profit will be available against which the deductible temporary differences and carryforward benefits of unused tax credits and unused tax losses can be utilized, except: (1) when the deferred income tax asset relating to the deductible temporary difference arises from the initial recognition of an asset or liability in a transaction that is not a business combination and, at the time of the transaction, affects neither the accounting profit nor taxable profit or loss; and (2) with respect to deductible temporary differences associated with investments in subsidiaries, associates and interests in joint ventures, deferred income tax assets are recognized only to the extent that it is probable that the temporary differences will reverse in the foreseeable future and taxable profit will be available against which the temporary differences can be utilized.

The carrying amount of deferred income tax assets is reviewed at the end of each reporting period and reduced to the extent that it is no longer probable that sufficient taxable profit will be available to allow all or part of the deferred income tax assets to be utilized. Unrecognized deferred income tax assets are reassessed at the end of each reporting period and are recognized to the extent that it has become probable that future taxable profit will allow the deferred income tax assets to be recovered.

Deferred income tax assets and liabilities are measured at the tax rates that are expected to apply in the year when the asset is realized or the liability is settled, based on tax rates (and tax laws) that have been enacted or substantively enacted as at the end of the reporting period.

Deferred income tax relating to items recognized in “Other comprehensive income” account is included in our statement of comprehensive income and not in our consolidated income statement.

Deferred income tax assets and liabilities are offset, if a legally enforceable right exists to offset current income tax assets against current income tax liabilities and the deferred income taxes relate to the same taxable entity and the same taxation authority.

Tax benefits acquired as part of a business combination, but not satisfying the criteria for separate recognition at that date, would be recognized subsequently if new information about facts and circumstances changed. The adjustment would either be treated as a reduction to goodwill (as long as it does not exceed goodwill) if it is incurred during the measurement period or in our profit or loss.

VAT

Revenues, expenses and assets are recognized net of the amount of VAT except: (1) where the VAT incurred on a purchase of assets or services is not recoverable from the tax authority, in which case, the VAT is recognized as part of the cost of acquisition of the asset or as part of the expense item as applicable; and (2) where receivables and payables are stated with the amount of VAT included.

Contingencies

Contingent liabilities are not recognized in our consolidated financial statements. They are disclosed in the notes to our consolidated financial statements unless the possibility of an outflow of resources embodying economic benefits is remote. Contingent assets are not recognized in our consolidated financial statements but are disclosed in the notes to our consolidated financial statements when an inflow of economic benefits is probable.

Events After the End of the Reporting Period

Post year-end events up to the date of approval of the Board of Directors that provide additional information about our financial position at the end of the reporting period (adjusting events) are reflected in our consolidated financial statements. Post year-end events that are not adjusting events are disclosed in the notes to our consolidated financial statements when material.

Equity

Preferred and common stocks are measured at par value for all shares issued. Incremental costs incurred directly attributable to the issuance of new shares are shown in equity as a deduction from proceeds, net of tax. Proceeds and/or fair value of considerations received in excess of par value are recognized as capital in excess of par value in our consolidated statements of changes in equity.

Treasury stocks are our own equity instruments which are reacquired and recognized at cost and presented as reduction in equity. No gain or loss is recognized in our consolidated income statement on the purchase, sale, reissuance or cancellation of our own equity instruments. Any difference between the carrying amount and the consideration upon reissuance or cancellation of shares is recognized as capital in excess of par value in our consolidated statements of changes in equity and statements of financial position.

Change in the ownership interest of a subsidiary, without loss of control, is accounted for as an equity transaction and any impact is presented as part of capital in excess of par value in our consolidated statements of changes in equity.

Retained earnings represent our net accumulated earnings less cumulative dividends declared.

Other comprehensive income comprises of income and expense, including reclassification adjustments that are not recognized in our profit or loss as required or permitted by PFRSs.

Standards Issued But Not Yet Effective

      The standards and interpretations that are issued, but not yet effective, up to the date of issuance of the financial statements are listed below. We will adopt these standards and amendments to existing standards which are relevant to us when these become effective.  Except for PFRS 9, Financial Instruments, IFRS 15, Revenue from Contracts with Customers, and PFRS 16, Leases, as discussed further below, we do not expect the adoption of these standards and amendments to PFRS to have a significant impact on our consolidated financial statements.

      Effective January 1, 2017

PAS 7, Statement of Cash Flows — Disclosure Initiative (Amendment)
PAS 12, Recognition of Deferred Income Tax Assets for Unrealized Losses (Amendment)

      Effective January 1, 2018

PFRS 9, Financial Instruments

      In July 2014, the International Accounting Standards Board, or IASB, issued the final version of IFRS 9, Financial Instruments. The new standard (renamed as PFRS 9 as adopted by FRSC) reflects all phases of the financial instruments project and replaces PAS 39, Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement, and all previous versions of PFRS 9. The standard introduces new requirements for classification and measurement, impairment, and hedge accounting. PFRS 9 is effective for annual periods beginning on or after January 1, 2018, with early application permitted. Retrospective application is required, but providing comparative information is not compulsory. For hedge accounting, the requirements are generally applied prospectively, with some limited exceptions. Early application of previous versions of PFRS 9 (2009, 2010 and 2013) is permitted if the date of initial application is before February 1, 2015.

The adoption of PFRS 9 will have an effect on the classification and measurement of our financial assets and impairment methodology for financial assets, but will have no impact on the classification and measurement of our financial liabilities. We are currently assessing the impact of adopting this standard.

PFRS 2, Classification and Measurement of Share-based Payment Transactions (Amendment)

This amendment issued by the IASB was already adopted by FRSC but still for approval by the Board of Accountancy and Philippine SEC.

      Effective January 1, 2019

PFRS 16, Leases

      PFRS 16, Leases, which replaces PAS 17, the current leases standard, and the related Interpretations.

      Under the new standard, lessees will no longer classify their leases as either operating or finance leases in accordance with PAS 17. Rather, lessees will apply the single-asset model. Under this model, lessees will recognize the assets and related liabilities for most leases on their balance sheets, and subsequently, will depreciate the lease assets and recognize interest on the lease liabilities in their profit or loss. Leases with a term of 12 months or less or for which the underlying asset is of low value are exempted from these requirements.

      The accounting by lessors is substantially unchanged as the new standard carries forward the principles of lessor accounting under PAS 17. Lessors, however, will be required to disclose more information in their financial statements, particularly on the risk exposure to residual value.

      This new standard issued by the IASB was already adopted by FRSC but still for approval by Philippine SEC.

      The new standard is effective for annual periods beginning on or after January 1, 2019. Entities may early adopt PFRS 16 but only until FRSC has adopted IFRS 15, Revenue from Contracts with Customers, and if we also adopted IFRS 15. When adopting IFRS 16, an entity is permitted to use either a full retrospective or a modified retrospective approach, with options to use certain transition reliefs.

      No definite adoption date prescribed by the Philippine SEC and FRSC

Philippine Interpretation IFRIC 15, Agreements for the Construction of Real Estate
IFRS 15, Revenue from Contracts with Customers

      IFRS 15 was issued in May 2014 and establishes a new five-step model that will apply to revenue arising from contracts with customers. Under IFRS 15, revenue is recognized at an amount that reflects the consideration to which an entity expects to be entitled in exchange for transferring goods or services to a customer. The principles in IFRS 15 provide a more structured approach to measuring and recognizing revenue. The new revenue standard is applicable to all entities and will supersede all current revenue recognition requirements under IFRS. Either a full or modified retrospective application is required for annual periods beginning on or after January 1, 2018 with early adoption permitted. We are currently assessing the impact of IFRS 15 and plans to adopt the new standard on the required effective date once adopted locally.

      The IASB has issued this new standard that have not yet been adopted locally by the Philippine SEC and FRSC.

3. Management’s Use of Accounting Judgments, Estimates and Assumptions

The preparation of our consolidated financial statements in conformity with PFRS requires us to make judgments, estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of our revenues, expenses, assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent liabilities at the end of each reporting period. The uncertainties inherent in these assumptions and estimates could result in outcomes that could require a material adjustment to the carrying amount of the assets or liabilities affected in the future years.

Judgments

In the process of applying the PLDT Group’s accounting policies, management has made the following judgments, apart from those including estimations and assumptions, which have the most significant effect on the amounts recognized in our consolidated financial statements.

Determination of functional currency

The functional currencies of the entities under the PLDT Group are the currency of the primary economic environment in which each entity operates. It is the currency that mainly influences the revenue from and cost of rendering products and services.

The presentation currency of the PLDT Group is the Philippine peso. Based on the economic substance of the underlying circumstances relevant to the PLDT Group, the functional currency of all entities under PLDT Group is the Philippine peso, except for (a) SMHC, FECL Group, PLDT Global and certain of its subsidiaries, DCPL, PGNL and certain of its subsidiaries, Chikka and certain of its subsidiaries and PGIC, which use the U.S. dollar; (b) eInnovations, Takatack Holdings, Takatack Technologies, iCommerce, Fintech Ventures, ePay, 3rd Brand, CPL and AGSPL, which use the Singapore dollar; (c) CCCBL, which uses the Chinese renminbi; (d) AGS Malaysia, which uses the Malaysian ringgit; and (e) AGS Indonesia, which uses the Indonesian rupiah.

Leases

As a lessee, we have various lease agreements in respect of certain equipment and properties. We evaluate whether significant risks and rewards of ownership of the leased properties are transferred to us (finance lease) or retained by the lessor (operating lease) based on PAS 17, Leases. Total lease expense amounted to Php5,124 million and Php4,704 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015, respectively. Total finance lease obligations amounted to nil and Php1 million as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively. See Note 2 – Summary of Significant Accounting Policies, Note 21 – Interest-bearing Financial Liabilities – Obligations under Finance Leases and Note 28 – Financial Assets and Liabilities – Liquidity Risk.

Accounting for investments in MediaQuest Holdings, Inc., or MediaQuest, through Philippine Depositary Receipts, or PDRs

ePLDT made various investments in PDRs issued by MediaQuest in relation to its direct interest in Satventures, Inc., or Satventures, and Hastings Holdings, Inc., or Hastings, and indirect interest in Cignal TV, Inc., or Cignal TV.

Based on our judgment, at the PLDT Group level, ePLDT’s investments in PDRs gives ePLDT a significant influence over Satventures, Hastings and Cignal TV as evidenced by inter-change of managerial personnel, provision of essential technical information and material transactions among PLDT, Smart, Satventures, Hastings and Cignal TV, thus accounted for as investments in associates using the equity method.

The carrying value of our investments in PDRs issued by MediaQuest amounted to Php12,656 million and Php12,749 million as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively. See related discussion on Note 10 – Investment in Associates and Joint Ventures – Investments in Associates – Investment in MediaQuest PDRs.

Accounting for investments in Phunware and AppCard

In 2015, PLDT Capital subscribed to preferred shares of Phunware and AppCard, see Note 10 – Investment in Associates and Joint Ventures. The investment in Phunware and AppCard allows PLDT Capital to designate one director in the five-seat board of Phunware for as long as PLDT Capital beneficially owns at least a certain percentage of Phunware and AppCard preferred shares.

Based on our judgment, at the PLDT Group Level, PLDT Capital’s investments in preferred             shares give PLDT a significant influence over Phunware and AppCard as evidenced by the board seats assigned to us. This gives us the authority to participate in the financial and operating policy decisions of Phunware and AppCard but neither control nor joint control of those policies. Hence, the investments are accounted for as investment in associates.

Accounting for investments in Vega Telecoms, Inc., or VTI, Bow Arken Holdings Company, or Bow Arken and Brightshare Holdings, Inc., or Brightshare. See Note 10 – Investments in Associates and Joint Ventures.

Impairment of available-for-sale equity investments

For available-for-sale financial investments, we assess at each reporting date whether there is objective evidence that an investment or a group of investments is impaired.

In the case of equity investments classified as available-for-sale financial investments, objective evidence would include a significant or prolonged decline in the fair value of the investment below its cost. The determination of what is “significant” or “prolonged” requires judgment. We treat “significant” generally as decline of 20% or more below the original cost of investment, and “prolonged” as greater than 12 months assessed against the period in which the fair value has been below its original cost.

Based on our judgment, the decline in fair value of our investment in Rocket Internet SE, or Rocket, to Php14,587 million as at December 31, 2015 is considered significant as the cumulative net losses from changes in fair value amounting to Php5,124 million represents 26% decline in value below cost. As a result, we recognized in our consolidated income statement an impairment of our investment in Rocket amounting to Php5,124 million for the year ended December 31, 2015. We recognized additional impairment loss of Php5,381 million as the fair value of Rocket further declined to Php9,206 million for the six months ended June 30, 2016. On September 30, 2016, we recognized an unrealized gain of Php1,309 million in our consolidated other comprehensive income in the “Net gains (losses) on available-for-sale financial investments” account due to slight recovery of Rocket’s fair value to Php10,515 million as at September 30, 2016. See related discussion on Note 5 – Income and Expenses and Note 11 – Available-for-Sale Financial Investments – Investment of PLDT Online in Rocket.

Estimates and Assumptions

The key estimates and assumptions concerning the future and other key sources of estimation uncertainty at the end of the reporting period that have a significant risk of causing a material adjustment to the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities recognized in our consolidated financial statements within the next financial year are discussed below. We based our estimates and assumptions on parameters available when the consolidated financial statements were prepared. Existing circumstances and assumptions about future developments, however, may change due to market changes or circumstances arising beyond our control. Such changes are reflected in the assumptions when they occur.

Impairment of non-financial assets

PFRS requires that an impairment review be performed when certain impairment indicators are present. In the case of goodwill and intangible assets with indefinite useful life, at a minimum, such assets are subject to an impairment test annually and whenever there is an indication that such assets may be impaired. This requires an estimation of the value in use of the CGUs to which these assets are allocated. The value in use calculation requires us to make an estimate of the expected future cash flows from the CGU and to choose a suitable discount rate in order to calculate the present value of those cash flows. See Note 15 – Goodwill and Intangible Assets – Impairment Testing of Goodwill and Intangible Assets with Indefinite Useful Life for the key assumptions used to determine the value in use of the relevant CGUs.

Determining the recoverable amount of property and equipment, investments in associates, joint ventures and deposits, intangible assets, prepayments and other noncurrent assets, requires us to make estimates and assumptions in the determination of future cash flows expected to be generated from the continued use and ultimate disposition of such assets. Future events could cause us to conclude that property and equipment, investments in associates and joint ventures, intangible assets and other noncurrent assets associated with an acquired business are impaired. Any resulting impairment loss could have a material adverse impact on our financial position and financial performance.

The preparation of estimated future cash flows involves significant estimations and assumptions. While we believe that our assumptions are appropriate and reasonable, significant changes in our assumptions may materially affect our assessment of recoverable values and may lead to future impairment charges under PFRS.

There was no asset impairment recognized on noncurrent assets for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015.

See Note 4 – Operating Segment Information, Note 5 – Income and Expenses – Asset Impairment and Note 9 – Property and Equipment – Impairment of Certain Wireless Network Equipment and Facilities.

The carrying values of our property and equipment, investments in associates, joint ventures and deposits, goodwill and intangible assets, and prepayments are separately disclosed in Notes 9, 10, 15 and 19, respectively.

Estimating useful lives of property and equipment

We estimate the useful lives of each item of our property and equipment based on the periods over which our assets are expected to be available for use. Our estimate of the useful lives of our property and equipment is based on our collective assessment of industry practice, internal technical evaluation and experience with similar assets. The estimated useful lives of our property and equipment are reviewed every year-end and are updated if expectations differ from previous estimates due to physical wear and tear, technical or commercial obsolescence and legal or other limitations on the use of our assets. It is possible, however, that future results of operations could be materially affected by changes in our estimates brought about by changes in the factors mentioned above. The amounts and timing of recorded expenses for any period would be affected by changes in these factors and circumstances. A reduction in the estimated useful lives of our property and equipment would increase our recorded depreciation and amortization and decrease our property and equipment.

The total depreciation and amortization of property and equipment amounted to Php22,603 million and Php21,187 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015, respectively. Total carrying values of property and equipment, net of accumulated depreciation and amortization, amounted to Php198,495 million and Php195,782 million as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively. See Note 2 – Summary of Significant Accounting Policies, Note 4 – Operating Segment Information and Note 9 – Property and Equipment.

Estimating useful lives of intangible assets with finite lives

Intangible assets with finite lives are amortized over their expected useful lives using the straight-line method of amortization. At a minimum, the amortization period and the amortization method for an intangible asset with a finite useful life are reviewed at least at each financial year-end. Changes in the expected useful life or the expected pattern of consumption of future economic benefits embodied in the asset are accounted for by changing the amortization period or method, as appropriate, and treated as changes in accounting estimates. The amortization expense on intangible assets with finite lives is recognized in our consolidated income statement.

The total amortization of intangible assets with finite lives amounted to Php821 million and Php805 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015, respectively. Total carrying values of intangible assets with finite lives amounted to Php5,153 million and Php5,219 million as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively. See Note 2 – Summary of Significant Accounting Policies, Note 4 – Operating Segment Information and Note 15 – Goodwill and Intangible Assets.

Business combinations

Our consolidated financial statements and financial performance reflect acquired businesses after the completion of the respective acquisition. We account for the acquired businesses using the acquisition method, which requires extensive use of accounting judgments and estimates to allocate the purchase price to the fair market values of the acquiree’s identifiable assets and liabilities and contingent liabilities, if any, at the acquisition date. Any excess in the purchase price over the estimated fair market values of the net assets acquired is recorded as goodwill in our consolidated statement of financial position. Thus, the numerous judgments made in estimating the fair market value to be assigned to the acquiree’s assets and liabilities can materially affect our financial performance and position. See Note 14 – Business Combinations.

Recognition of deferred income tax assets

We review the carrying amounts of deferred income tax assets at the end of each reporting period and reduce these to the extent that these are no longer probable that sufficient taxable income will be available to allow all or part of the deferred income tax assets to be utilized. Our assessment on the recognition of deferred income tax assets on deductible temporary differences is based on the level and timing of forecasted taxable income of the subsequent reporting periods. This forecast is based on our past results and future expectations on revenues and expenses as well as future tax planning strategies. Based on this, management expects that we will generate sufficient taxable income to allow all or part of our deferred income tax assets to be utilized.

Based on the above assessment, our consolidated unrecognized deferred income tax assets amounted to Php10,349 million and Php10,759 million as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively. Total consolidated provision for deferred income tax amounted to Php1,181 million and Php109 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015, respectively. Total consolidated net deferred income tax assets amounted to Php22,058 million and Php21,941 million as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively. See Note 2 – Summary of Significant Accounting Policies, Note 4 – Operating Segment Information and Note 7 – Income Taxes.

Estimating allowance for doubtful accounts

If we assessed that there was objective evidence that an impairment loss was incurred in our trade and other receivables, we estimate the allowance for doubtful accounts related to our trade and other receivables that are specifically identified as doubtful of collection. The amount of allowance is evaluated by management on the basis of factors that affect the collectability of the accounts. In these cases, we use judgment based on all available facts and circumstances, including, but not limited to, the length of our relationship with the customer and the customer’s credit status based on third party credit reports and known market factors, to record specific reserves for customers against amounts due in order to reduce our receivables to amounts that we expect to collect. These specific reserves are re-evaluated and adjusted as additional information received affects the amounts estimated.

In addition to specific allowance against individually significant receivables, we also assess a collective impairment allowance against credit exposures of our customer which were grouped based on common credit characteristics, which, although not specifically identified as requiring a specific allowance, have a greater risk of default than when the receivables were originally granted to customers. This collective allowance is based on historical loss experience using various factors, such as historical performance of the customers within the collective group, deterioration in the markets in which the customers operate, and identified structural weaknesses or deterioration in the cash flows of customers.

Total provision for doubtful accounts for trade and other receivables recognized in our consolidated income statements amounted to Php6,614 million and Php2,426 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015, respectively. Trade and other receivables, net of allowance for doubtful accounts, amounted to Php26,138 million and Php24,898 million as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively. See Note 4 – Operating Segment Information, Note 5 – Income and Expenses – Asset Impairment, Note 17 – Trade and Other Receivables and Note 28 – Financial Assets and Liabilities.

Estimating pension benefit costs and other employee benefits

The cost of defined benefit and present value of the pension obligation are determined using the projected unit credit method. An actuarial valuation includes making various assumptions which consists, among other things, discount rates, rates of compensation increases and mortality rates. See Note 26 – Employee Benefits. Due to complexity of valuation, the underlying assumptions and its long-term nature, a defined benefit obligation is highly sensitive to changes in assumptions. While we believe that our assumptions are reasonable and appropriate, significant differences in our actual experience or significant changes in our assumptions may materially affect our cost for pension and other retirement obligations. All assumptions are reviewed every year-end.

Net consolidated pension benefit costs amounted to Php1,221 million and Php1,429 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015, respectively. The prepaid benefit costs amounted to Php392 million and Php306 million as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively. The accrued benefit costs amounted to Php11,344 million and Php10,197 million as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively. See Note 5 – Income and Expenses – Compensation and Employee Benefits, Note 19 – Prepayments and Note 26 – Employee Benefits – Defined Benefit Pension Plans.

Provision for asset retirement obligations

Provision for asset retirement obligations are recognized in the period in which these are incurred if a reasonable estimate can be made. This requires an estimation of the cost to restore/dismantle on a per square meter basis, depending on the location, and is based on the best estimate of the expenditure required to settle the obligation at the future restoration/dismantlement date, discounted using a pre-tax rate that reflects the current market assessment of the time value of money and, where appropriate, the risk specific to the liability. Total provision for asset retirement obligations amounted to Php1,467 million and Php1,437 million as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively. See Note 22 – Deferred Credits and Other Noncurrent Liabilities.

Provision for legal contingencies and tax assessments

We are currently involved in various legal proceedings and tax assessments. Our estimates of the probable costs for the resolution of these claims have been developed in consultation with our counsel handling the defense in these matters and are based upon our analysis of potential results. We currently do not believe these proceedings could materially reduce our revenues and profitability. It is possible, however, that future financial position and performance could be materially affected by changes in our estimates or effectiveness of our strategies relating to these proceedings and assessments. See Note 27 – Provisions and Contingencies.

Based on management’s assessment, appropriate provisions were made; however, management has decided not to disclose further details of these provisions as they may prejudice our position in certain legal proceedings.

Revenue recognition

Our revenue recognition policies require us to make use of estimates and assumptions that may affect the reported amounts of our revenues and receivables.

Our agreements with domestic and foreign carriers for inbound and outbound traffic subject to settlements require traffic reconciliations before actual settlement is done, which may not be the actual volume of traffic as measured by us. Initial recognition of revenues is based on our observed traffic adjusted by our normal experience adjustments, which historically are not material to our consolidated financial statements. Differences between the amounts initially recognized and the actual settlements are taken up in the accounts upon reconciliation.

Revenues earned from multiple element arrangements offered by our fixed line and wireless businesses are split into separately identifiable components based on their relative fair value in order to reflect the substance of the transaction. Where fair value is not directly observable, the total consideration is allocated using an appropriate allocation method. We account for mobile contracts in accordance with PAS 18, Revenue Recognition, and have concluded that the handset and the mobile services may be accounted for as separate identifiable components. The handset (with activation) is delivered first, followed by the mobile service (which is provided over the contract/lock-in period, generally one or two years). Because some amount of the arrangement consideration that may be allocated to the handset generally is contingent on providing the mobile service, the amount that is allocated to the handset is limited to the cash received (i.e., the amount paid for the handset) at the time of the handset delivery.

Under certain arrangements with our knowledge processing solutions services, if there is uncertainty regarding the outcome of the transaction for which service was rendered, revenue is recognized only to the extent of expenses incurred for rendering the service and only to such amount as determined to be recoverable.

We recognize our revenues from installation and activation related fees and the corresponding costs over the expected average periods of customer relationship for fixed line and cellular services. We estimate the expected average period of customer relationship based on our most recent churn rate analysis.

Determination of fair values of financial assets and financial liabilities

Where the fair value of financial assets and financial liabilities recorded in our consolidated statement of financial position cannot be derived from active markets, they are determined using valuation techniques including the discounted cash flows model. The inputs to these models are taken from observable markets where possible, but where this is not feasible, a degree of judgment is required in establishing fair values. The judgments include considerations of inputs such as liquidity risk, credit risk and volatility. Changes in assumptions about these factors could affect the reported fair value of financial instruments.

Other than those whose carrying amounts are reasonable approximations of fair values, total fair values of noncurrent financial assets and noncurrent financial liabilities as at September 30, 2016 amounted to Php8,606 million and Php147,865 million, respectively, while the total fair values of noncurrent financial assets and noncurrent financial liabilities as at December 31, 2015 amounted to Php3,277 million and Php165,572 million, respectively. See Note 28 – Financial Assets and Liabilities.

4. Operating Segment Information

Operating segments are components of the PLDT Group that engage in business activities from which they may earn revenues and incur expenses (including revenues and expenses relating to transactions with other components of PLDT Group). The operating results of these operating segments are regularly reviewed by the Management Committee to make decisions about how resources are to be allocated to each of the segments and to assess their performances, and for which discrete financial information is available.

For management purposes, we are organized into business units based on our products and services and based on the reorganization as discussed below. We have three reportable operating segments, as follows:

Wireless – wireless telecommunications services provided by Smart and DMPI, which owns the Sun Cellular business and is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Digitel, our cellular service providers; Voyager and certain subsidiaries, our mobile applications and digital platforms developer and mobile financial services provider; SBI and PDSI, our wireless broadband service providers; Chikka Group, our wireless content operators; ACeS Philippines, our satellite information and messaging services provider; WiFun, our WiFi-enabler and certain subsidiaries of PLDT Global, our mobile virtual network operations provider;

Fixed Line – fixed line telecommunications services primarily provided by PLDT. We also provide fixed line services through PLDT’s subsidiaries, namely, ClarkTel, SubicTel, Philcom Group, Maratel, SBI, BCC, PLDT Global and certain subsidiaries and Digitel, all of which together account for approximately 3% of our consolidated fixed line subscribers; data center, cloud, big data, managed information and communications technology services and resellership provided by ePLDT, IPCDSI Group, AGS Group, Curo and ePDS; business infrastructure and solutions, intelligent data processing and implementation services and data analytics insight generation provided by Talas; distribution of Filipino channels and content provided by PGNL and its subsidiaries; and

Others – PCEV, PGIH, PLDT Digital and its subsidiaries, MIC and PGIC, our investment companies.

See Note 2 – Summary of Significant Accounting Policies and Note 14 – Business Combinations for further discussion.

The Management Committee monitors the operating results of each business unit separately for purposes of making decisions about resource allocation and performance assessment. Segment performance is evaluated based on net income (loss) for the period; earnings before interest, taxes and depreciation and amortization, or EBITDA; EBITDA margin; and core income. Net income (loss) for the period is measured consistent with net income (loss) in our consolidated financial statements.

EBITDA for the period is measured as net income excluding depreciation and amortization, amortization of intangible assets, asset impairment on noncurrent assets, financing costs, interest income, equity share in net earnings (losses) of associates and joint ventures, foreign exchange gains (losses) – net, gains (losses) on derivative financial instruments – net, provision for (benefit from) income tax and other income – net.

EBITDA margin for the period is measured as EBITDA divided by service revenues.

Core income for the period is measured as net income attributable to equity holders of PLDT (net income less net income attributable to noncontrolling interests), excluding foreign exchange gains (losses) – net, gains (losses) on derivative financial instruments – net (excluding hedge costs), asset impairment on noncurrent assets, other non-recurring gains (losses), net of tax effect of aforementioned adjustments, as applicable, and similar adjustments to equity share in net earnings (losses) of associates and joint ventures.

Transfer prices between operating segments are on arm’s length basis similar to transactions with third parties. Segment revenues, segment expenses and segment results include transfers between business segments. These transfers are eliminated in full upon consolidation.

Core earnings per common share, or core EPS, for the period is measured as core income divided by the weighted average number of outstanding common shares. See Note 8 – Earnings Per Common Share for the weighted average number of common shares.

EBITDA, EBITDA margin, core income and core EPS are non-PFRS measures.

The amounts of segment assets and liabilities and segment profit or loss are based on measurement principles that are similar to those used in measuring the assets and liabilities and profit or loss in our consolidated financial statements, which is in accordance with PFRS.

The segment revenues, net income, and other segment information of our reportable operating segments for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015 and as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015 are as follows:

                                         
                            Inter-segment    
    Wireless   Fixed Line   Others   Transactions   Consolidated
    (in million pesos)
September 30, 2016 (Unaudited)
                                       
Revenues
                                       
External customers
    79,450       45,936                   125,386  
Service revenues
    75,879       43,053                   118,932  
Non-service revenues
    3,571       2,883                   6,454  
Inter-segment transactions
    1,107       8,135             (9,242 )      
Service revenues
    1,107       8,134             (9,241 )      
Non-service revenues
          1             (1 )      
 
                                       
Total revenues
    80,557       54,071             (9,242 )     125,386  
 
                                       
Results
                                       
Depreciation and amortization
    12,450       10,153                   22,603  
Asset impairment
    6,519       1,014       5,381             12,914  
Equity share in net earnings (losses) of associates and joint ventures
    (206 )     (48 )     1,731             1,477  
Interest income
    196       534       189       (176 )      743  
Financing costs – net
    1,838       3,629       139       (176 )     5,430  
Provision for income tax
    3,486       2,681       93             6,260  
Net income / Segment profit
    5,934       6,617       3,349             15,900  
EBITDA
    24,309       20,312       (25 )     1,121       45,717  
EBITDA margin
    32 %     40 %                 38 %
Core income
    6,302       6,353       9,081             21,736  
Assets and liabilities
                                       
Operating assets
    209,776       172,454       23,566       (30,991 )     374,805  
Investments in associates and joint ventures
    1,974       39,536       14,570             56,080  
Deferred income tax assets – net
    7,983       14,075                     22,058  
Total assets
    219,733       226,065       38,136       (30,991 )     452,943  
 
                                       
Operating liabilities
    151,337       196,626       12,224       (15,655 )     344,532  
Deferred income tax liabilities – net
    2,982       399       205             3,586  
Total liabilities
    154,319       197,025       12,429       (15,655 )     348,118  
 
                                       
Other segment information
                                       
Capital expenditures, including capitalized interest
    19,092       7,039                   26,131  
September 30, 2015 (Unaudited)
                                       
Revenues
                                       
External customers
    85,597       42,274                   127,871  
Service revenues
    82,076       39,925                   122,001  
Non-service revenues
    3,521       2,349                   5,870  
Inter-segment transactions
    1,158       8,648             (9,806 )      
Service revenues
    1,158       8,646             (9,804 )      
Non-service revenues
          2             (2 )      
 
                                       
Total revenues
    86,755       50,922             (9,806 )     127,871  
 
                                       
Results
                                       
Depreciation and amortization
    11,524       9,663                   21,187  
Asset impairment
    1,759       903                   2,662  
Equity share in net earnings (losses) of associates and joint ventures
    (47 )     (131 )     2,846             2,668  
Interest income
    239       448       72       (169 )      590  
Financing costs – net
    1,308       3,279       132       (169 )     4,550  
Provision for income tax
    5,253       1,965       120             7,338  
Net income / Segment profit
    15,822       4,366       5,167             25,355  
EBITDA
    35,196       17,928       (52 )     994       54,066  
EBITDA margin
    42 %     37 %                 44 %
Core income
    16,835       4,582       5,660             27,077  
December 31, 2015 (Audited)
                                       
Assets and liabilities
                                       
Operating assets
    217,317       190,856       18,504       (42,226 )     384,451  
Investments in associates and joint ventures
    2,208       12,922       33,573             48,703  
Deferred income tax assets – net
    8,249       13,692                   21,941  
 
                                       
Total assets
    227,774       217,470       52,077       (42,226 )     455,095  
 
                                       
Operating liabilities
    171,131       182,085       12,149       (27,872 )     337,493  
Deferred income tax liabilities – net
    3,146       412       146             3,704  
 
                                       
Total liabilities
    174,277       182,497       12,295       (27,872 )     341,197  
 
                                       
September30, 2015 (Unaudited)
                                       
Other segment information
                                       
Capital expenditures, including capitalized interest
    17,650       5,647                   23,297  
 
                                       

The following table shows the reconciliation of our consolidated EBITDA to our consolidated net income for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015:

                 
    September 30,
    2016   2015
    (Unaudited)
    (in million pesos)
EBITDA
    45,717       54,066  
Add (deduct) adjustments:
               
Equity share in net earnings of associates and joint ventures
    1,477       2,668  
Interest income
    743       590  
Gains on derivative financial instruments – net
    511       447  
Amortization of intangible assets
    (821 )     (805 )
Foreign exchange losses – net
    (1,434 )     (2,523 )
Asset impairment
    (5,381 )      
Financing costs – net
    (5,430 )     (4,550 )
Provision for income tax
    (6,260 )     (7,338 )
Depreciation and amortization
    (22,603 )     (21,187 )
Other income – net
    9,381       3,987  
Total adjustments
    (29,817 )     (28,711 )
 
               
Consolidated net income
    15,900       25,355  
 
               

The following table shows the reconciliation of our consolidated core income to our consolidated net income for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015:

                 
    September 30,
    2016   2015
    (Unaudited)
    (in million pesos)
Consolidated core income
    21,736       27,077  
Add (deduct) adjustments:
               
Gains on derivative financial instruments – net, excluding hedge costs
    916       687  
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests
    35       16  
Core income adjustment on equity share in net earnings (losses) of associates and joint ventures
    25       (87 )
Foreign exchange losses – net
    (1,434 )     (2,523 )
Asset impairment
    (5,381 )      
Net tax effect of aforementioned adjustments
    3       185  
Total adjustments
    (5,836 )     (1,722 )
 
               
Consolidated net income
    15,900       25,355  
 
               

The following table shows the reconciliation of our consolidated basic and diluted core EPS to our consolidated basic and diluted EPS attributable to common equity holder of PLDT for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015:

                                 
    September 30,
    2016   2015
    Basic   Diluted   Basic   Diluted
    (Unaudited)
Consolidated core EPS
    100.42       100.42       125.11       125.11  
Add (deduct) adjustments:
                               
Gains on derivative financial instruments – net, excluding hedge costs
    2.96       2.96       2.24       2.24  
Core income adjustment on equity share in net earnings (losses) of associates and joint ventures
    0.11       0.11       (0.40 )     (0.40 )
Foreign exchange losses – net
    (5.36 )     (5.36 )     (9.88 )     (9.88 )
Asset impairment
    (24.91 )     (24.91 )            
 
                               
Total adjustments
    (27.20 )     (27.20 )     (8.04 )     (8.04 )
Consolidated EPS attributable to common equity holders of PLDT
    73.22       73.22       117.07       117.07  
 
                               

The following table presents our revenues from external customers by category of products and services for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015:

                 
    September 30,
    2016   2015
    (Unaudited)
    (in million pesos)
Wireless services
               
Service revenues:
               
Cellular
    66,597       72,504  
Broadband and others
    8,873       8,714  
Digital platforms and mobile financial services
    409       858  
 
    75,879       82,076  
Non-service revenues:
               
Sale of cellular handsets, cellular SIM-packs and broadband data modems
    3,571       3,521  
 
               
Total wireless revenues
    79,450       85,597  
 
               
Fixed line services
               
Service revenues:
               
Local exchange
    13,196       12,678  
International long distance
    3,347       3,907  
National long distance
    2,552       2,744  
Data and other network
    23,333       20,025  
Miscellaneous
    625       571  
 
               
 
    43,053       39,925  
Non-service revenues:
               
Sale of computers
    2,305       1,834  
Point-product-sales
    578       515  
 
               
 
    2,883       2,349  
 
               
Total fixed line revenues
    45,936       42,274  
 
               
Total revenues
    125,386       127,871  
 
               

Disclosure of the geographical distribution of our revenues from external customers and the geographical location of our total assets are not provided since the majority of our consolidated revenues are derived from our operations within the Philippines.

There is no revenue transaction with a single external customer that accounted for 10% or more of our consolidated revenues from external customers for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015.

5. Income and Expenses

Non-service Revenues

Non-service revenues for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015 consist of the following:

                 
    September 30,
    2016   2015
    (Unaudited)
    (in million pesos)
Sale of computers, cellular handsets, cellular SIM-packs and broadband data modems
    5,876       5,355  
Point-product-sales
    578       515  
 
               
Total non-service revenues (Note 4)
    6,454       5,870  
 
               

Compensation and Employee Benefits

Compensation and employee benefits for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015 consist of the following:

                 
    September 30,
    2016   2015
    (Unaudited)
    (in million pesos)
Salaries and other employee benefits
    13,567       13,420  
Pension benefit costs (Notes 3 and 26)
    1,221       1,429  
Manpower rightsizing program, or MRP
    290       1,527  
Total compensation and employee benefits
    15,078       16,376  
 
               

Over the past several years, we have been implementing the MRP in line with our continuing efforts to reduce the cost base of our businesses. The decision to implement the MRP was a result of challenges faced by our businesses as significant changes in technology, increasing competition, and shifting market preferences have reshaped the future of our businesses. The MRP is being implemented in compliance with the Labor Code of the Philippines and all other relevant labor laws and regulations in the Philippines.

Cost of Sales

Cost of sales for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015 consist of the following:

                 
    September30,
    2016   2015
    (Unaudited)
    (in million pesos)
Cost of computers, cellular handsets, cellular SIM-packs sold and broadband data modems
    13,472       11,214  
Cost of point-product-sales
    510       433  
Cost of content
    297       49  
Cost of satellite air time and terminal units (Note 25)
          13  
 
               
Total cost of sales
    14,279       11,709  
 
               

Asset Impairment

Asset impairment for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015 consist of the following:

                 
    September 30,
    2016   2015
    (Unaudited)
    (in million pesos)
Trade and other receivables (Notes 3, 17 and 28)
    6,614       2,426  
Available-for-sale securities (Notes 3 and 11)
    5,381        
Inventories and supplies (Note 18)
    919       236  
Total asset impairment
    12,914       2,662  
 
               

Interest Income

Interest income for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015 consist of the following:

                 
    September 30,
    2016   2015
    (Unaudited)
    (in million pesos)
Interest income on other loans and receivables
    700       543  
Interest income on HTM investments (Note 12)
    27       34  
Interest income on FVPL
    16       13  
 
               
Total interest income (Notes 4, 12 and 16)
     743        590  
 
               

Financing Costs – net

Financing costs – net for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015 consist of the following:

                 
    September 30,
    2016   2015
    (Unaudited)
    (in million pesos)
Interest on loans and other related items (Notes 21 and 28)
    5,507       4,602  
Accretion on financial liabilities (Notes 21 and 28)
    176       163  
Financing charges
    113       70  
Capitalized interest (Notes 4, 9 and 21)
    (366 )     (285 )
 
               
Total financing costs – net (Notes 4, 9, 21 and 28)
    5,430       4,550  
 
               

6. Components of Other Comprehensive Income

Changes in other comprehensive income under equity of our consolidated statements of financial position for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015 are as follows:

                                                                         
                                            Share in the other            
                                            comprehensive            
            Net gains (losses)                           income of            
    Foreign   on           Revaluation           associates and   Total other        
    currency   available-for-sale   Net   increment on   Actuarial losses   joint ventures   comprehensive loss        
    translation   financial   transactions   investment   on defined   accounted for   attributable   Share of   Total other
    differences of   investments   on cash flow hedges   properties   benefit plans   using the equity   to equity holders   noncontrolling   comprehensive loss
    subsidiaries   – net of tax   – net of tax   – net of tax   – net of tax   method   of PLDT   interests   – net of tax
    (in million pesos)
Balances as at January 1, 2016
    524       76       (3 )     602       (19,805 )     404       (18,202 )     12       (18,190 )
Other comprehensive income (loss)
    46       1,317       (281 )     (1 )     (3,215 )     151       (1,983 )     (6 )     (1,989 )
Recycled to retained earnings
                                  (243 )     (243 )           (243 )
Balances as at September 30,
2016 (Unaudited)
 
570
 
1,393
 
(284)
 
 601
 
(23,020)
 
 312
 
(20,428)
 
6
 
(20,422)
 
                                                                       
Balances as at January 1, 2015
    489       8,211       (34 )     603       (18,207 )     653       (8,285 )     2       (8,283 )
Other comprehensive income (loss)
    31       (12,651 )     (289 )     (1 )     (3,410 )     (109 )     (16,429 )     9       (16,420 )
 
                                                                       
Balances as at September 30,
2015 (Unaudited)
 
520
 
(4,440)
 
(323)
 
 602
 
(21,617)
 
 544
 
(24,714)
 
11
 
(24,703)
 
                                                                       

Revaluation increment on investment properties pertains to the difference between the carrying value and fair value of property and equipment transferred to investment property at the time of change in classification.

7. Income Taxes

Corporate Income Tax

The major components of consolidated net deferred income tax assets and liabilities recognized in our consolidated statements of financial position as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015 are as follows:

                 
    September 30,   December 31,
    2016   2015
    (Unaudited)   (Audited)
    (in million pesos)
Net deferred income tax assets (Notes 3 and 4)
    22,058       21,941  
Net deferred income tax liabilities (Note 4)
    3,586       3,704  
 
               

The components of our consolidated net deferred income tax assets and liabilities as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015 are as follows:

                 
    September 30,   December 31,
    2016   2015
    (Unaudited)   (Audited)
    (in million pesos)
Net deferred income tax assets:
               
Unamortized past service pension costs
    4,651       4,182  
Pension and other employee benefits
    3,628       3,142  
Accumulated provision for doubtful accounts
    3,355       2,921  
Provision for other assets
    2,756       2,552  
Unrealized foreign exchange losses
    2,381       2,335  
Customer list and trademark
    2,159       2,654  
Unearned revenues
    1,579       1,730  
NOLCO
    1,182       1,238  
Fixed asset impairment
    540       1,219  
Accumulated write-down of inventories to net realizable values
    400       224  
Derivative financial instruments
    104       230  
Undepreciated capitalized interest charges
    (1,253 )     (1,378 )
Others
    576       892  
 
               
Total deferred income tax assets – net
    22,058       21,941  
 
               
Net deferred income tax liabilities:
               
Intangible assets and fair value adjustment on assets acquired – net of amortization
    2,650       2,808  
Unamortized fair value adjustment on fixed assets from business combinations
    423       458  
Unrealized foreign exchange gains
    219       159  
Undepreciated capitalized interest charges
    8       9  
Others
    286       270  
 
               
Total deferred income tax liabilities – net
    3,586       3,704  
 
               

Changes in our consolidated net deferred income tax assets (liabilities) as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015 are as follows:

                 
    September 30,   December 31,
    2016   2015
    (Unaudited)   (Audited)
    (in million pesos)
Net deferred income tax assets – balance at beginning of the period (Notes 3 and 4)
    21,941       17,131  
Net deferred income tax liabilities – balance at beginning of the period (Note 4)
    (3,704 )     (4,427 )
 
               
Net balance at beginning of the period
    18,237       12,704  
Movement charged directly to other comprehensive income
    1,463       784  
Benefit from (provision for) deferred income tax (Note 3)
    (1,181 )     4,710  
Others
    (47 )     39  
 
               
Net balance at end of the period
    18,472       18,237  
 
               
Net deferred income tax assets – balance at end of the period (Notes 3 and 4)
    22,058       21,941  
Net deferred income tax liabilities – balance at end of the period (Notes 3 and 4)
    (3,586 )     (3,704 )
 
               

The analysis of our consolidated net deferred income tax assets as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015 are as follows:

                 
    September 30,   December 31,
    2016   2015
    (Unaudited)   (Audited)
    (in million pesos)
Deferred income tax assets:
               
Deferred income tax assets to be recovered after 12 months
    22,407       20,964  
Deferred income tax assets to be recovered within 12 months
    1,406       3,076  
 
               
 
    23,813       24,040  
 
               
Deferred income tax liabilities:
               
Deferred income tax liabilities to be settled after 12 months
    (1,576 )     (1,341 )
Deferred income tax liabilities to be settled within 12 months
    (179 )     (758 )
 
               
 
    (1,755 )     (2,099 )
 
               
Net deferred income tax assets (Notes 3 and 4)
    22,058       21,941  
 
               

The analysis of our consolidated net deferred income tax liabilities as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015 are as follows:

                 
    September 30,   December 31,
    2016   2015
    (Unaudited)   (Audited)
    (in million pesos)
Deferred income tax assets:
               
Deferred income tax assets to be recovered after 12 months
          11  
Deferred income tax assets to be recovered within 12 months
    1       3  
 
               
 
    1       14  
 
               
Deferred income tax liabilities:
               
Deferred income tax liabilities to be settled after 12 months
    (3,321 )     (3,469 )
Deferred income tax liabilities to be settled within 12 months
    (266 )     (249 )
 
               
 
    (3,587 )     (3,718 )
 
               
Net deferred income tax liabilities (Note 4)
    (3,586 )     (3,704 )
 
               

Provision for corporate income tax for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015 consist of:

                 
    September 30,
    2016   2015
    (Unaudited)
    (in million pesos)
Current
    5,079       7,229  
Deferred (Note 3)
    1,181       109  
 
               
 
    6,260       7,338  
 
               

The reconciliation between the provision for income tax at the applicable statutory tax rate and the actual provision for corporate income tax for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015 are as follows:

                 
    September 30,
    2016   2015
    (Unaudited)
    (in million pesos)
Provision for income tax at the applicable statutory tax rate
    6,648       9,808  
Tax effects of:
               
Nondeductible expenses
    2,545       555  
Difference between OSD and itemized deductions
    (15 )     (27 )
Income not subject to income tax
    (23 )     (36 )
Income subject to lower tax rate
    (132 )     (49 )
Equity share in net earnings of associates and joint ventures
    (443 )     (801 )
Income subject to final tax
    (2,590 )     (969 )
Net movement in unrecognized deferred income tax assets and other adjustments
    270       (1,143 )
 
               
Actual provision for corporate income tax
    6,260       7,338  
 
               

The breakdown of our consolidated deductible temporary differences, carryforward benefits of unused tax credits from excess of MCIT over RCIT, and NOLCO (excluding those not recognized due to the adoption of the OSD method) for which no deferred income tax assets were recognized and the equivalent amount of unrecognized deferred income tax assets as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015 are as follows:

                 
    September 30,   December 31,
    2016   2015
    (Unaudited)   (Audited)
    (in million pesos)
NOLCO
    16,158       7,194  
Accumulated provision for doubtful accounts
    8,358       5,216  
Provisions for other assets
    2,569       5,098  
Unearned revenues
    2,364       3,417  
Pension and other employee benefits
    1,969       94  
Fixed asset impairment
    922       12,338  
Asset retirement obligation
    598       588  
Accumulated write-down of inventories to net realizable values
    401       231  
MCIT
    315       398  
Unrealized foreign exchange losses
    84       312  
Derivative financial instruments
    8       26  
Operating lease and others
    16       22  
 
    33,762       34,934  
 
               
Unrecognized deferred income tax assets (Note 3)
    10,349       10,759  
 
               

DMPI recognized deferred income tax assets to the extent that it is probable that sufficient taxable income will be available to allow all or part of the deferred income tax assets to be utilized. Digitel and DMPI’s unrecognized deferred income tax assets amounted to Php9,293 million and Php9,874 million as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively.

Our consolidated deferred income tax assets have been recorded to the extent that such consolidated deferred income tax assets are expected to be utilized against sufficient future taxable profit. Deferred income tax assets shown in the preceding table were not recognized as we believe that future taxable profit will not be sufficient to realize these deductible temporary differences and carryforward benefits of unused tax credits from excess of MCIT over RCIT, and NOLCO in the future.

The breakdown of our consolidated excess MCIT and NOLCO as at September 30, 2016 are as follows:

                         
Date Incurred   Expiry Date   MCIT   NOLCO
            (in million pesos)
December 31, 2013
  December 31, 2016     1       295  
December 31, 2014
  December 31, 2017     212       5,969  
December 31, 2015
  December 31, 2018     93       2,483  
September 30, 2016
  December 31, 2019     9       11,352  
 
                       
 
             315       20,099  
 
                       
Consolidated tax benefits
            315       6,030  
Consolidated unrecognized deferred income tax assets
            (315 )     (4,848 )
Consolidated recognized deferred income tax assets
                  1,182  
 
                       

The excess MCIT totaling Php315 million as at September 30, 2016 can be deducted against future RCIT liability. The excess MCIT that was deducted against RCIT amounted to nil for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015. There were no expired portion of excess MCIT for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015.

NOLCO totaling Php20,099 million as at September 30, 2016 can be claimed as deduction against future taxable income. The NOLCO claimed as deduction against taxable income amounted to Php236 million and Php14 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015, respectively. There were no expired portion of excess NOLCO for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015.

Registration with Subic Bay Freeport Enterprise and Clark Special Economic Zone Enterprise

SubicTel is registered with Subic Bay Freeport Enterprise, while ClarkTel is registered with Clark Special Economic Zone Enterprise under Republic Act 7227, or R.A. 7227, otherwise known as the Bases Conversion and Development Act of 1992. As registrants, SubicTel and ClarkTel are entitled to all the rights, privileges and benefits established thereunder including tax and duty-free importation of capital equipment and a special income tax rate of 5% of gross income, as defined in R.A. 7227.

Registration with Philippine Economic Zone Authorities, or PEZA

On June 14, 2012, the PEZA through its Resolution No. 12-312, approved the transfer of all rights, obligations and assets of IPCDSI under its Registration Agreement with the PEZA dated April 24, 2006 and Supplemental Agreements with the PEZA dated November 13, 2007 and June 29, 2011 subject to submission by IPCDSI of certain requirements.  At the same time, the PEZA registration of IPCDSI as an Economic Information Technology (IT) Enterprise was cancelled effective June 1, 2012.

The Registration Agreement dated April 24, 2006 provided that the IPCDSI’s IT operations shall be covered by the 5% gross income tax incentive, in lieu of national and local taxes, including additional deductions for training expenses.  IPCDSI shall also be entitled to following incentives: (a) duty and tax exemption on importation; (b) exemption from wharfage dues and export tax, impost or fees; and (c) VAT zero rating of local purchases subject to compliance with BIR and PEZA requirements.

Supplemental agreements dated November 13, 2007 and June 29, 2011 provided the approval of PEZA registration which granted the non-pioneer status and tax incentives under R.A. 7916 for the additional activity on the expansion project in RCBC Plaza and on the new project in Bonifacio Technology Center Building, respectively.  Further, the expansion project shall be entitled to three years Income Tax Holiday, or ITH incentive, subject to required conditions, starting from its commercial operations on June 1, 2012, while the new project shall be entitled to four years ITH incentive, subject to required conditions, starting from its commercial operations on October 23, 2011.  Both projects were subjected to 5% gross income tax upon the expiration of ITH incentive on October 23, 2015.

Consolidated income derived from non-registered activities with Economic Zone and Board of Investments, or BOI, is subject to the RCIT rate at the end of the reporting period.

Consolidated tax incentives that were availed from registration with Economic Zone and BOI amounted to nil and Php48 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015, respectively.

8. Earnings Per Common Share

The following table presents information necessary to calculate the EPS for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015:

                                 
    September 30,
    2016   2015
    Basic   Diluted   Basic   Diluted
    (Unaudited)
    (in million pesos)        
Consolidated net income attributable to equity holders of PLDT(Note 4)
    15,865       15,865       25,339       25,339  
Dividends on preferred shares (Note 20)
    (45 )     (45 )     (45 )     (45 )
 
                               
Consolidated net income attributable to common equity holders of PLDT
    15,820       15,820       25,294       25,294  
 
                               
    (in thousands, except per share amounts
    which are in pesos)        
Weighted average number of common shares
  216,056     216,056       216,056       216,056  
 
                               
EPS attributable to common equity holders of PLDT (Note 4)
    73.22       73.22       117.07       117.07  
 
                               

Basic EPS amounts are calculated by dividing our consolidated net income for the period attributable to common equity holders of PLDT (consolidated net income adjusted for dividends on all series of preferred shares, except for dividends on preferred stock subject to mandatory redemption) by the weighted average number of common shares issued and outstanding during the period.

Diluted EPS amounts are calculated in the same manner assuming that, at the beginning of the year or at the time of issuance during the period, all outstanding options are exercised and convertible preferred shares are converted to common shares, and appropriate adjustments to our consolidated net income are effected for the related income and expenses on preferred             shares. Outstanding stock options will have a dilutive effect only when the average market price of the underlying common share during the period exceeds the exercise price of the stock option.

Convertible preferred shares are deemed dilutive when required dividends declared on each series of convertible preferred shares divided by the number of equivalent common shares, assuming such convertible preferred shares are converted to common shares, decreases the basic EPS. As such, the diluted EPS is calculated by dividing our consolidated net income attributable to common shareholders (consolidated net income, adding back any dividends and/or other charges recognized for the period related to the dilutive convertible preferred             shares classified as liability, less dividends on non-dilutive preferred shares except for dividends on preferred stock subject to mandatory redemption) by the weighted average number of common shares excluding the weighted average number of common shares held as treasury             shares, and including the common shares equivalent arising from the conversion of the dilutive convertible preferred shares and from the mandatory tender offer for all remaining Digitel shares.

Where the effect of the assumed conversion of the preferred shares and the exercise of all outstanding options have an anti-dilutive effect, basic and diluted EPS are stated at the same amount.

9. Property and Equipment

Changes in property and equipment account for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and for the year ended December 31, 2015 are as follows:

                                                                                 
                                    Vehicles, aircraft,           Information            
                            Buildings   furniture           origination   Land and        
    Cable and wire   Central           and   and other network   Communications   and termination   land   Property    
    facilities   office equipment   Cellular facilities   improvements   equipment   satellite   equipment   improvements   under construction   Total
    (in million pesos)
As at December 31, 2014 (Audited)
                                                                       
Cost
    182,019       118,149       161,246       26,844       51,017       966       11,830       3,461       50,066       605,598  
Accumulated depreciation, impairment and amortization
    (127,860 )     (98,074 )     (116,041 )     (16,704 )     (43,201 )     (966 )     (10,507 )     (261 )           (413,614 )
 
                                                                               
Net book value
    54,159       20,075       45,205       10,140       7,816             1,323       3,200       50,066       191,984  
 
                                                                               
Year Ended December 31, 2015 (Audited)
                                                                       
Net book value at beginning of the year
    54,159       20,075       45,205       10,140       7,816             1,323       3,200       50,066       191,984  
Additions
    2,258       540       10,276       239       2,309             519       15       27,076       43,232  
Disposals/Retirements
    (6 )     (96 )     (37 )     (214 )     (227 )                 (33 )     (23 )     (636 )
Translation differences charged directly to cumulative translation adjustments
    1       4                   2                               7  
Impairment losses recognized during the year (Note 5)
    (2,343 )           (3,358 )           (87 )                             (5,788 )
Reclassifications (Note 13)
    (42 )     611       121       484       (666 )           41       (4 )     (2,041 )     (1,496 )
Transfers and others
    4,185       2,456       7,773       300       2,358             594       2       (17,668 )      
Depreciation of revaluation increment on investment properties transferred to property and equipment charged to other comprehensive income
                      (2 )                                   (2 )
Depreciation and amortization (Notes 2, 3 and 4)
    (9,975 )     (4,059 )     (11,902 )     (1,452 )     (3,336 )           (793 )     (2 )           (31,519 )
Net book value at end of the year (Note 3)
    48,237       19,531       48,078       9,495       8,169             1,684       3,178       57,410       195,782  
 
                                                                               
As at December 31, 2015 (Audited)
                                                               
Cost
    187,195       112,867       177,118       27,162       53,797       966       12,962       3,441       57,410       632,918  
Accumulated depreciation, impairment and amortization
    (138,958 )     (93,336 )     (129,040 )     (17,667 )     (45,628 )     (966 )     (11,278 )     (263 )           (437,136 )
 
                                                                               
Net book value (Note 3)
    48,237       19,531       48,078       9,495       8,169             1,684       3,178       57,410       195,782  
 
                                                                               
Period Ended September 30, 2016 (Unaudited)
                                                               
Net book value at beginning of the period (Note 3)
    48,237       19,531       48,078       9,495       8,169             1,684       3,178       57,410       195,782  
Additions
    2,175       318       9,775       165       2,637             503       7       10,642       26,222  
Disposals/Retirements
    (5 )     (9 )     (202 )     (49 )     (227 )                 (5 )     54       (443 )
Reclassifications (Note 13)
    (12 )     242       (78 )     (6 )     (595 )                 1       (18 )     (466 )
Transfers and others
    4,502       2,467       7,731       237       940             798       1       (16,676 )      
Translation differences charged directly to cumulative translation adjustments
    4                         1                               5  
Depreciation of revaluation increment on investment properties transferred to property and equipment charged to other comprehensive income
                            (2 )                             (2 )
Depreciation and amortization (Notes 2, 3 and 4)
    (6,381 )     (3,219 )     (8,841 )     (919 )     (2,474 )           (768 )     (1 )           (22,603 )
Net book value at end of the period (Note 3)
    48,520       19,330       56,463       8,923       8,449             2,217       3,181       51,412       198,495  
 
                                                                               
As at September 30, 2016 (Unaudited)
                                                                       
Cost
    193,689       114,667       191,568       27,365       55,717       966       14,260       3,445       51,412       653,089  
Accumulated depreciation, impairment and amortization
    (145,169 )     (95,337 )     (135,105 )     (18,442 )     (47,268 )     (966 )     (12,043 )     (264 )           (454,594 )
 
                                                                               
Net book value (Note 3)
    48,520       19,330       56,463       8,923       8,449             2,217       3,181       51,412       198,495  
 
                                                                               

Interest capitalized to property and equipment that qualified as borrowing costs amounted to Php366 million and Php285 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015, respectively. See Note 5 – Income and Expenses – Financing Costs – net. Our undepreciated interest capitalized to property and equipment that qualified as borrowing costs amounted to Php5,295 million and Php5,553 million as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively. The average interest capitalization rates used were approximately 4% each for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015, respectively.

Our net foreign exchange differences, which qualified as borrowing costs amounted to Php78 million and Php109 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015, respectively. Our undepreciated capitalized net foreign exchange losses that qualified as borrowing costs amounted to Php331 million and Php274 million as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively.

The estimated useful lives of our property and equipment are estimated as follows:

     
Cable and wire facilities
  10 – 15 years
Central office equipment
  3 – 15 years
Cellular facilities
  3 – 10 years
Buildings
  25 years
Vehicles, furniture and other network equipment
  3 – 7 years
Information origination and termination equipment
  3 – 5 years
Leasehold improvements
  3 – 5 years
Land improvements
  10 years

Property and equipment include the net carrying value of capitalized vehicles, aircraft, furniture and other network equipment under financing leases, which amounted to Php71 thousand and Php3 million as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively. See Note 21 – Interest-bearing Financial Liabilities – Obligations under Finance Leases.

Impairment of Certain Network Equipment and Facilities

In December 2015, DMPI recognized an impairment loss of Php5,789 million pertaining to network assets affected by the convergence program of Smart and DMPI. Network assets impaired in 2015 consist mainly of core and transport equipment in Metro Manila and Cebu, which were not included in the initial program as management’s original strategy was to minimize the risk of service disruption for Sun subscribers in critical and high traffic areas. We decided to change the strategy for network convergence, that is, to fully integrate the networks of Smart and DMPI, as management believes that the converged network will be resilient enough to address any risk of service disruption in the critical and high traffic areas. Moreover, the converged network will allow optimization of network resources that will result in improved customer experience for both Sun and Smart subscribers.

See Note 3 – Management’s Use of Accounting Judgments, Estimates and Assumptions – Impairment of non-financial assets.

10. Investments in Associates and Joint Ventures

As at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, this account consists of:

                 
    September 30,   December 31,
    2016   2015
    (Unaudited)   (Audited)
    (in million pesos)
Carrying value of investments in associates:
               
MediaQuest PDRs (Notes 3 and 26)
    12,656       12,749  
Asia Outsourcing Beta Limited, or Beta
    1,158       654  
AF Payments, Inc., or AFPI, (formerly Automated Fare Collection System, Inc.)(*)
    439       533  
Phunware (Note 3)
    384       384  
Appcard (Note 3)
    234       231  
Digitel Crossing, Inc., or DCI
    218       173  
ACeS International Limited, or AIL
           
Asia Netcom Philippines Corp., or ANPC
           
 
               
 
    15,089       14,724  
 
               
Carrying value of investments in joint ventures:
               
VTI, Bow Arken and Brightshare
    26,122        
Beacon Electric Asset Holdings, Inc., or Beacon
    13,334       32,304  
Philippines Internet Holding S.à.r.l., or PHIH
    1,535       1,595  
ECommerce Pay Holding S.à.r.l., or ECommerce Pay
          80  
 
    40,991       33,979  
 
               
Total carrying value of investments in associates and joint ventures (Note 4)
    56,080       48,703  
 
               

      (*) On February 26, 2015, AFPI through its Board of Directors and stockholders amended its corporate name to AF Payments, Inc.

Changes in the cost of investments for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and for the year ended December 31, 2015 are as follows:

                 
    September 30,   December 31,
    2016   2015
    (Unaudited)   (Audited)
    (in million pesos)
Balance at beginning of the period
    41,150       37,724  
Additions during the period
    26,666       3,413  
Disposals
    (11,612 )      
Translation and other adjustments
    (73 )     13  
 
               
Balance at end of the period
    56,131       41,150  
 
               

Changes in the accumulated impairment losses for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and for the year ended December 31, 2015 are as follows:

                 
    September 30,   December 31,
    2016   2015
    (Unaudited)   (Audited)
    (in million pesos)
Balance at beginning of the period
    1,888       1,884  
Translation and other adjustments
    2       4  
 
               
Balance at end of the period
    1,890       1,888  
 
               

Changes in the accumulated equity share in net earnings of associates and joint ventures for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and for the year ended December 31, 2015 are as follows:

                 
    September 30,   December 31,
    2016   2015
    (Unaudited)   (Audited)
    (in million pesos)
Balance at beginning of the period
    9,441       6,206  
Realized portion of deferred gain on the transfer of Beacon and Manila Electric Company, or Meralco, shares
    4,962       2,838  
Equity share in net earnings (losses) of associates and joint ventures (Note 4):
    1,477       3,241  
Beacon
    1,829       3,205  
Beta
    442       79  
DCI
    45       114  
ECommerce Pay
    (52 )      
PHIH
    (60 )      
MediaQuest PDRs
    (93 )     (76 )
AFPI
    (94 )     (81 )
VTI
    (540 )      
Share in the other comprehensive loss of associates and joint ventures accounted for using the equity method
    (44 )     (249 )
Dividends
    (4,388 )     (2,544 )
Disposals
    (9,717 )      
Translation and other adjustments
    108       (51 )
 
               
Balance at end of the period
    1,839       9,441  
 
               

Investments in Associates

Investment in MediaQuest PDRs

In 2012, ePLDT made deposits totaling Php6 billion to MediaQuest, an entity wholly-owned by the PLDT Beneficial Trust Fund for the issuance of PDRs by MediaQuest in relation to its indirect interest in Cignal TV. Cignal TV is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Satventures, which is a wholly-owned subsidiary of MediaQuest. The Cignal TV PDRs confer an economic interest in common shares of Cignal TV indirectly owned by MediaQuest, and when issued, will provide ePLDT with a 40% economic interest in Cignal TV. Cignal TV operates a direct-to-home, or DTH, Pay-TV business under the brand name “Cignal TV”, which is the largest DTH Pay-TV operator in the Philippines.

In June 2013, ePLDT’s Board of Directors approved additional investments in PDRs of MediaQuest:

a Php3.6 billion investment by ePLDT in PDRs to be issued by MediaQuest in relation to its interest in Satventures. The Satventures PDRs confer an economic interest in common shares of Satventures owned by MediaQuest and provide ePLDT with a 40% economic interest in Satventures; and

a Php1.95 billion investment by ePLDT in PDRs to be issued by MediaQuest in relation to its interest in Hastings. The Hastings PDRs confer an economic interest in common shares of Hastings owned by MediaQuest. Hastings is a wholly-owned subsidiary of MediaQuest and holds all the print-related investments of MediaQuest, including equity interests in the three leading newspapers: The Philippine Star, Philippine Daily Inquirer, and Business World. See Note 26 – Employee Benefits – Unlisted Equity Investments – Investment in MediaQuest.

The Php6 billion Cignal TV PDRs and Php3.6 billion Satventures PDRs were issued on September 27, 2013. These PDRs provided ePLDT an aggregate of 64% economic interest in Cignal TV.

On February 19, 2014, ePLDT’s Board of Directors approved an additional investment of up to Php500 million in Hastings PDRs to be issued by MediaQuest. On March 11, 2014, MediaQuest received from ePLDT an amount aggregating to Php300 million representing deposits for future PDRs subscription. As at December 31, 2014, total deposit for PDRs subscription amounted to Php2,250 million.

On May 21, 2015, ePLDT’s Board of Directors approved an additional Php800 million investment in Hastings PDRs and settlement of the Php200 million balance of the Php500 million Hastings PDR investment in 2014. Subsequently, on May 30, 2015, the Board of Trustees of the Beneficial Trust Fund and the Board of Directors of MediaQuest approved the issuance of Php3,250 million Hastings PDRs. This provided ePLDT with 70% economic interest in Hastings. See Note 26 – Employee Benefits – Investment in MediaQuest.

The carrying value of investment in MediaQuest PDRs amounted to Php12,656 million and Php12,749 million as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively. See Note 3 – Management’s Use of Accounting Judgments, Estimates and Assumptions – Accounting for investments in MediaQuest through PDRs.

The PLDT Group’s financial investment in PDRs of MediaQuest is part of the PLDT Group’s overall strategy of broadening its distribution platforms and increasing the PLDT Group’s ability to deliver multi-media content to its customers across the PLDT Group’s broadband and mobile networks.

Investment of PGIC in Beta

On February 5, 2013, PLDT entered into a Subscription and Shareholders’ Agreement with Asia Outsourcing Alpha Limited, or Alpha, and Beta, wherein PLDT, through its indirect subsidiary PGIC, acquired from Alpha approximately 20% equity interest in Beta for a total cost of approximately US$40 million, which consists of preferred shares of US$39.8 million and ordinary shares of US$0.2 million. On various dates in 2013 and 2014, PGIC transferred a total of 85 ordinary shares and 31,426 preferred shares to certain employees of Beta for a total consideration of US$53 thousand. The equity interest of PGIC in Beta remained at 20% after the transfer with economic interest of 18.32%.

Alpha and Beta are both exempted limited liability companies incorporated under the laws of Cayman Islands and are both controlled by CVC Capital Partners. Beta has been designated to be the holding company of the SPi Technologies, Inc. and Subsidiaries.

On October 1, 2014, Asia Outsourcing Gamma Limited, or AOGL,’s healthcare business, which provides revenue cycle management, health information management and software solutions for independent and provider-owned physician practices, was sold to Conifer Health Solutions, America’s leading provider of technology-enabled healthcare performance improvement services, for a total value of US$235 million. AOGL is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Beta. As a result of the sale, PGIC received a cash distribution of US$42 million from Beta.

On July 22, 2016, AOGL entered into Sale and Purchase Agreement, or SPA, with Relia, Inc., one of the largest BPO companies in Japan, relating to the acquisition of AOGL’s Customer Relationship Management, or CRM, business under the legal entity SPi CRM, Inc. and Infocom Technologies, Inc., wholly-owned subsidiaries of SPi Technologies, Inc., for an initial enterprise value of US$181 million. The transaction was completed on September 30, 2016.

The carrying value of investment in common shares amounted to Php1,158 million and Php654 million as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively. The carrying value of PGIC’s investment in Beta’s preferred shares amounting to Php259 million and Php265 million were presented as part of investment in debt securities and other long-term investments in our consolidated statements of financial position as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively. See related discussion on Note 12 – Investment in Debt Securities and Other Long-term Investments.

PGIC is a wholly-owned subsidiary of PLDT Global, which was incorporated under the laws of British Virgin Islands.

Investment of Smart in AFPI

In 2013, Smart, along with other conglomerates Metro Pacific Investments Corporation, or MPIC, and Ayala Corporation, or Ayala, embarked on a venture to bid for the Automated Fare Collection System, or AFCS, project of the Department of Transportation and Communications, or DOTC, and Light Rail Transit Authority.  The project aims to upgrade the Light Rail Transit 1 and 2, and Metro Rail Transit ticketing systems by substantially speeding up payments, reducing queuing time and facilitating efficient passenger transfer to other rail lines.  The AFCS Consortium led by MPIC and Ayala, composed of AC Infrastructure Holdings Corporation, BPI Card Finance Corporation, and Globe Telecom, Inc., or Globe, for the Ayala Group, and MPIC, Meralco Financial Services Corporation, and Smart for the MPIC Group, bid for the AFCS Project and on January 30, 2014, received a Notice of Award from the DOTC declaring it as the winning bidder. 

On February 10, 2014, AFPI, the joint venture company, was incorporated in the Philippines and registered with the Philippine SEC. As part of the agreement, Smart subscribed for 503 million shares equivalent to a 20% equity interest in AFPI at a subscription price of Php1.00 per share.

On June 30, 2014, MPIC and Ayala Group signed a ten-year concession agreement with the DOTC to build and implement the AFCS project.

On January 20, 2015, the Board of Directors of AFPI approved an additional cash call on unpaid subscription of Php800 million to fund its expenditures, which was paid on March 30, 2015 by the shareholders in proportion to their share subscriptions. Smart contributed an additional Php160 million for its 20% share in AFPI.

On November 17, 2015, the Board of Directors of AFPI approved the increase in authorized capital stock from Php2,550 million divided into 2,550 million shares with par value of Php1.00 per share to Php5,000 million divided into 5,000 million shares with par value of Php1.00 per share. AFPI subsequently issued a total of 612.5 million shares with par value of Php1.00 per share to all of its existing shareholders in proportion to their current shareholdings. Smart subscribed to an additional capital of Php122.5 million representing its proportionate share in the capital increase. On the same date, the Board of Directors likewise approved an additional cash call on unpaid subscription of Php650 million for AFPI’s planned expenditure. Smart contributed an additional Php130 million representing its 20% share.

The carrying value of Smart’s investment in AFPI amounted to Php439 million, including subscription payable of Php36 million as at September 30, 2016 and Php533 million, including subscription payable of Php166 million as at December 31, 2015. Smart has significant influence over AFPI given its 20% voting interest and its Board representation.

Investment of PLDT Capital in Phunware

On September 3, 2015, PLDT Capital subscribed to an 8% US$5 million Convertible Promissory Note, or Note, issued by Phunware, a Delaware corporation. Phunware is an expansive mobile delivery platform that creates, markets, and monetizes mobile application experiences across multiple screens. By pioneering the multiscreen as a service platform, Phunware enables companies to engage seamlessly with their customers through mobile devices, from indoor and outdoor location-based marketing and advertising to content management, notifications and analytics, indoor mapping, navigation and wayfinding.

The US$5 million Note was issued and paid on September 4, 2015. On December 18, 2015, PLDT Capital subscribed to Series F Preferred Shares of Phunware for a total consideration of US$3 million. On the same date, the Note and its related interest were converted to additional Phunware Series F Preferred Shares.

On September 3, 2015, PLDT Capital also entered into a Memorandum of Understanding with Phunware to establish a joint venture that will exclusively market and distribute Phunware’s targeted mobile and multiscreen solutions in the Philippines and the rest of Southeast Asia. Consequently, on November 11, 2015, PLDT Capital incorporated Phunware Southeast Asia Pte. Ltd., through which the joint venture will conduct its operations in the region.

Investment of PLDT Capital in AppCard

On October 9, 2015, PLDT Capital entered into a Convertible Preferred Stock Purchase Agreement with AppCard for US$5 million. AppCard, a Delaware Corporation, is engaged in the business of developing, marketing, selling and servicing digital loyalty program platforms.

The US$5 million Convertible Series B Preferred Stock was paid on October 9, 2015.

Investment of Digitel in DCI and ANPC

Digitel has 60% and 40% interest in Asia Netcom Philippines Corporation, or ANPC, and Digitel Crossing, Inc., or DCI, respectively. DCI is involved in the business of cable system linking the Philippines, United States and other neighboring countries in Asia. ANPC is an investment holding company owning 20% of DCI.

In December 2000, Digitel, Pacnet Network (Philippines), Inc., or PNPI, (formerly Asia Global Crossing Ltd.) and BT Group O/B Broadband Infrastructure Group Ltd., or BIG, entered into a JVA under which the parties agreed to form DCI with each party owning 40%, 40% and 20%, respectively. DCI was incorporated to develop, provide and market backhaul network services, among others.

On April 19, 2001, after BIG withdrew from the proposed joint venture, Digitel and PNPI formed ANPC to replace BIG. Digitel contributed US$2 million, or Php69 million, for a 60% equity interest in ANPC while PNPI owned the remaining 40% equity interest.

Digitel provided full impairment loss on its investment in DCI and ANPC in prior years on the basis that DCI and ANPC have incurred significant recurring losses in the past. In 2011, Digitel recorded a reversal of impairment loss amounting to Php92 million following improvement in the associates’ operations.

Digitel has no control over ANPC. Though Digitel owns more than half of the voting interest in ANPC because of certain governance matters, management has assessed that Digitel only has significant influence and not control.

Digitel’s investment in DCI does not qualify as investment in joint venture as there is no provision for joint control in the JVA among Digitel, PNPI and ANPC.

Following PLDT’s acquisition of a controlling stake in Digitel, PNPI, on November 4, 2011, sent a notice to exercise its Call Right under Section 6.3 of the JVA, which provides for a Call Right exercisable by PNPI following the occurrence of a Digitel change in control. As at November 14, 2016, Digitel management is ready to conclude the transfer of its investment in DCI, subject to PNPI’s ability to meet certain regulatory and valuation requirements.

Investment of ACeS Philippines in AIL

As at September 30, 2016, ACeS Philippines held 36.99% equity interest in AIL, a company incorporated under the laws of Bermuda. AIL owns the Garuda I Satellite and the related system control equipment in Batam, Indonesia. In December 2014, AIL suffered a failure of the propulsion system on board the Garuda I Satellite, thus, AIL decided to decommission the operation of Garuda I Satellite in January 2015.

AIL has incurred significant operating losses, negative operating cash flows, and significant levels of debt. The financial condition of AIL was partly due to the National Service Providers’, or NSPs, inability to generate the amount of revenues originally expected as the growth in subscriber numbers has been significantly lower than budgeted. These factors raised substantial doubt about AIL’s ability to continue as a going concern. On this basis, we recognized a full impairment provision of Php1,896 million in respect of our investment in AIL in 2003.

Unrecognized share in net losses and translation adjustment of AIL amounted to Php101 million and Php52 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015, respectively. Share in net cumulative losses amounting to Php2,156 million and Php2,075 million as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively, were not recognized as we do not have any legal or constructive obligation to pay for such losses and have not made any payments on behalf of AIL.

See Note 25 – Related Party Transactions – Air Time Purchase Agreement between PLDT and AIL Related Agreements and Note 28 – Financial Assets and Liabilities – Liquidity Risk – Unconditional Purchase Obligations for further details as to the contractual relationships with respect to AIL.

Summarized Financial Information of Associates

The following tables present our share in the summarized financial information of our investments in associates in conformity with PFRS for equity investees in which we have significant influence as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015 and for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015:

                 
    September 30,   December 31,
    2016   2015
    (Unaudited)   (Audited)
    (in million pesos)
Statements of Financial Position:
               
Noncurrent assets
    8,384       8,520  
Current assets
    4,183       4,493  
Equity
    2,632       2,119  
Noncurrent liabilities
    3,130       4,186  
Current liabilities
    6,805       6,708  
 
               
                 
    September 30,
    2016   2015
    (Unaudited)
    (in million pesos)
Income Statements:
               
Revenues
    5,646       4,636  
Expenses
    5,714       4,362  
Other income (loss) – net
    440       (329 )
Net income
    372       55  
Other comprehensive income
           
Total comprehensive income
    372       55  
 
               

We have no outstanding contingent liabilities or capital commitments with our associates as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015.

Investments in Joint Ventures

Investment of PLDT in VTI, Bow Arken and Brightshare

On May 30, 2016, the PLDT Board approved the Company’s acquisition of 50% equity interest, including outstanding advances, in the telecommunications business of San Miguel Corporation, or SMC, with Globe acquiring the remaining 50% interest. On the same date, PLDT and Globe executed: (i) a SPA with SMC to acquire the entire outstanding capital, including outstanding advances, in VTI (and the other subsidiaries of VTI), which holds SMC’s telecommunications assets through its subsidiaries, or the VTI Transaction; and (ii) separate SPAs with the owners of two other entities, Bow Arken (parent company of New Century Telecoms, Inc.) and Brightshare (parent company of eTelco, Inc.), which separately hold additional spectrum frequencies through their respective subsidiaries, or the Bow Arken Transaction and Brightshare Transaction, respectively.

Total consideration for the acquisition is Php52.8 billion representing the purchase price for the equity interest and advances of previous owners to VTI, Bow Arken and Brightshare. The consideration will be paid in three tranches: 50% was paid upon signing of the SPAs on May 30, 2016, 25% is payable on December 1, 2016 and the final 25% is payable on May 30, 2017, subject to the fulfillment of certain conditions. The second and final payments are secured by irrevocable standby letters of credit. The SPAs contain a price adjustment mechanism wherein an adjustment to the consideration for the acquisition will be agreed among PLDT, Globe and previous owners based on the results of confirmatory due diligence procedures to be jointly performed by PLDT and Globe after May 30, 2016. Discussion on the result of the due diligence procedure is on-going as at September 30, 2016. See Note 28 – Financial Assets and Liabilities – Commercial Commitments.

PLDT and Globe caused the relevant subsidiaries of the acquired companies to relinquish certain radio frequencies in the 700 Megahertz, or MHz, 850MHz, 2500MHz and 3500MHz bands and return these radio frequencies to the government through the NTC. PLDT, Globe and Bell Telecommunications Philippines, Inc., or Belltel, a subsidiary of VTI, also requested for NTC’s approval of their co-use of certain frequency bands assigned to Belltel. Both the relinquishment/return of certain frequencies and separate co-use arrangements between Smart and Belltel and Globe and Belltel each covering specific frequencies assigned to Belltel have been approved by the NTC, which has regulatory and supervisory powers over the parties to the transactions and with mandate to ensure a healthy competitive environment in the telecommunications industry.

Notice of Transaction filed with the Philippine Competition Commission, or the Commission

On May 30, 2016, each of PLDT, Globe and SMC submitted notices of VTI, Bow Arken and Brightshare Transactions (respectively, the VTI Notice, the Bow Arken Notice and the Brightshare Notice and collectively, the Notices) to the Commission pursuant to the Philippine Competition Act, or PCA, and Circular No. 16-001 and Circular No. 16-002 issued by the Commission, or the Circulars. As stated in the Circulars, upon receipt by the Commission of the requisite notices, each of the said transactions shall be deemed approved in accordance with the Circulars.

Subsequently, on June 7, 2016, PLDT and the other parties to the said transactions received separate letters dated June 6 and 7, 2016 from the Commission which essentially stated, that: (a) with respect to VTI Transaction, the VTI Notice is deficient and defective in form and substance, therefore, the VTI Transaction is not “deemed approved” by the Commission, and that the missing key terms of the transaction are critical since the Commission considers certain agreements as prohibited and illegal; and (b) with respect to the Bow Arken and Brightshare Transactions, the compulsory notification under the Circulars does not apply and that even assuming the Circulars apply, the Bow Arken Notice and the Brightshare Notice are deficient and defective in form and substance.

On June 10, 2016, PLDT submitted its response to the Commission’s letter articulating its position that the VTI Notice is adequate, complete and sufficient and compliant with the requirement under the Circulars, and does not contain false material information; as such, the VTI Transaction enjoys the benefit of Section 23 of the PCA. Therefore, the VTI Transaction is deemed approved and cannot be subject to retroactive review by the Commission. Moreover, the parties have taken all necessary steps, including the relinquishment/return of certain frequencies and co-use of the remaining frequencies by Smart and Belltel and Globe and Belltel as discussed above, to ensure that the VTI Transaction will not substantially prevent, restrict or lessen competition to violate the PCA. Nevertheless, in the spirit of cooperation and for transparency, the parties voluntarily submitted to the Commission, among others, copies of the SPAs for the Commission’s information and reference.

In a letter dated June 17, 2016, the Commission required the parties to further submit additional documents relevant to the co-use arrangement and the frequencies subject thereto, as well as other definitive agreements relating to the VTI Transaction. It also disregarded the deemed approved status of the VTI Transaction in violation of the Circulars which the Commission itself issued, and insisted that it will conduct a full review, if not investigation of the said transaction under the different operative provisions of the PCA.

Legal Recourse to the Court of Appeals, or the CA

On July 12, 2016, PLDT filed before the CA a Petition for Certiorari and Prohibition (With Urgent Application for the Issuance of a Temporary Restraining Order and/or Writ of Preliminary Injunction), or the Petition, against the Commission. The Petition seeks to enjoin the Commission from proceeding with the review of the acquisition by PLDT and Globe of the telecommunications business of SMC and performing any act which challenges or assails the “deemed approved” status of the transaction. On July 19, 2016, the 12th Division of the CA issued a Resolution directing the Office of the Solicitor General, or the OSG, to file its Comment within a non-extensible period of 10 days from notice and show cause why the Petition should not be granted. On August 11, 2016, the Commission through the OSG, filed its Comment to the Petition (With Opposition to Petitioner’s Application for a Writ of Preliminary Injunction). On August 19, 2016, PLDT filed its Reply to Respondent Commission’s Comment. On August 26, 2016, the CA 12th Division issued a Writ of Preliminary Injunction enjoining and directing the respondent Commission, their officials and agents, or persons acting for and in their behalf, to cease and desist from conducting further proceedings for the pre-acquisition review and/or investigation of the subject acquisition based on its Letters dated June 7, 2016 and June 17, 2016 during the effectivity hereof and until further orders are issued by the Court. On September 20, 2016, the Commission through the OSG, filed a Motion for Reconsideration of the CA’s Resolution dated July 19, 2016. PLDT filed an Opposition to the Commission’s Motion for Reconsideration on October 24, 2016. In a Resolution promulgated on October 19, 2016, the CA’s 12th Division: (i) accepted the consolidation of Globe’s petition versus the Commission (CA G.R. SP No. 146538) into PLDT’s petition versus the Commission (CA G.R. SP No. 146528) with the right of replacement; (ii) admitted the Comment dated October 4, 2016 filed by the Commission; (iii) referred to the Commission for Comment (within 10 days from notice) PLDT’s Urgent Motion for the Issuance of a Gag Order dated September 30, 2016; and (iv) ordered all parties to submit simultaneous memoranda within a non-extendible period of 15 days from notice. Thereafter, with or without their respective memorandum, the instant cases shall be submitted for decision.

VTI’s Tender Offer for the Minority Stockholders’ Shares in Liberty Telecom Holdings, Inc., or LIB

On August 18, 2016, the Board of Directors of VTI approved the voluntary tender offer to acquire the common shares of LIB, a subsidiary of VTI, which are held by the remaining minority shareholders, and the intention to delist the shares of LIB from the PSE.

On August 24, 2016, VTI, owner of 87.12% of the outstanding common shares of LIB, undertook the tender offer to purchase up to 165.88 million common shares owned by the remaining shareholders, representing 12.82% of LIB’s issued and outstanding common stock, at a price of Php2.20 per share.
The tender offer period ended on October 20, 2016, the extended expiration date, with over 107 million shares tendered, representing approximately 8.3% of LIB’s issued and outstanding common shares. The tendered shares were crossed at the PSE on November 4, 2016, with the settlement on November 9, 2016.

Following the conclusion of the tender offer, VTI now owns more than 95% of the issued and outstanding common shares, and 99.1% of the total issued and outstanding capital stock of LIB.

The tender offer was undertaken in compliance with the PSE’s requirements for the voluntary delisting of LIB common shares from the PSE. The voluntary delisting of LIB shares is expected to occur on November 21, 2016.

Investment in Beacon

On March 1, 2010, PCEV, MPIC and Beacon, entered into an Omnibus Agreement, or OA. Beacon was incorporated in the Philippines and organized with the sole purpose of holding the respective shareholdings in Meralco of PCEV and MPIC. PCEV and MPIC are Philippine affiliates of First Pacific and both held equity interest in Meralco. Under the OA, PCEV and MPIC have agreed to set out their mutual agreement in respect of, among other matters, the capitalization, organization, conduct of business and the extent of their participation in the management of the affairs of Beacon. Beacon, PCEV and MPIC have also agreed on certain corporate governance matters, including Board composition, election of officers, shareholders’ action, representation to the Meralco Board, nomination of the Meralco Board Committees, and nomination of Meralco officers.

Beacon is merely a special purpose vehicle created for the main purpose of holding and investing in Meralco using the same Meralco shares as collateral for funding such additional investment. The OA entered into by Beacon, PCEV and MPIC effectively delegates the decision making power of Beacon over the Meralco shares to PCEV and MPIC and that Beacon does not exercise any discretion over the vote to be taken in respect of the Meralco shares but is obligated to vote on the Meralco shares strictly in accordance with the instructions of PCEV and MPIC. Significant influence over the relevant financing and operating activities of Meralco is exercised at the respective Boards of PCEV and MPIC.

PCEV accounts for its investment in Beacon as investment in joint venture since the OA establishes joint control over Beacon.

Beacon’s Capitalization

Beacon’s authorized capital stock of Php5,000 million consists of 3,000 million common             shares with a par value of Php1.00 per share and 2,000 million preferred shares with a par value of Php1.00 per share. The preferred shares of Beacon are non-voting, not convertible to common shares or any shares of any class of Beacon and have no pre-emptive rights to subscribe to any share or convertible debt securities or warrants issued or sold by Beacon. The preferred shareholder is entitled to liquidation preference and yearly cumulative dividends at the rate of 7% of the issue value subject to: (a) availability of unrestricted retained earnings; and (b) dividend payment restrictions imposed by Beacon’s bank creditors.

On March 30, 2010, MPIC subscribed to 1,157 million common shares of Beacon and approximately 801 million preferred shares of Beacon in consideration of: (1) the transfer of 164 million Meralco shares at a price of Php150.00 per share, or an aggregate amount of Php24,540 million; and (2) Php6,600 million in cash, as further discussed in “Transfer of Meralco Shares to Beacon” section below for further information.

PCEV likewise subscribed to 1,157 million common shares of Beacon on March 30, 2010 in consideration of the transfer of 154 million Meralco common shares at a price of Php150.00 per share, or an aggregate amount of Php23,130 million.

Transfer of Meralco Shares to Beacon

Alongside the subscription to the Beacon shares pursuant to the OA, Beacon purchased 154 million and 164 million Meralco common shares, or the Transferred Shares, from PCEV and MPIC, respectively, for a consideration of Php150.00 per share or a total of Php23,130 million for the PCEV Meralco shares and Php24,540 million for the MPIC Meralco shares. PCEV transferred the 154 million Meralco common shares to Beacon on May 12, 2010.

On October 25, 2011, PCEV transferred to Beacon its remaining investment in 69 million of Meralco’s common shares for a total cash consideration of Php15,136 million. PCEV also subscribed to 1,199 million Beacon preferred shares at the same time. The transfers of the Meralco shares were implemented through a special block sale/cross sale in the PSE.

PCEV recognized a deferred gain of Php8,047 million and Php8,145 million on May 12, 2010 and October 25, 2011, respectively, for the difference between the transfer price of the Meralco             shares to Beacon and the carrying amount in PCEV’s books of the Meralco shares transferred since the transfer was between entities with common shareholders. The deferred gain, presented as a reduction in PCEV’s investment in Beacon common shares, will only be realized upon the disposal of the Meralco shares to a third party.

PCEV’s Additional Investment in Beacon Common Shares

On January 20, 2012, PCEV subscribed to 135 million Beacon common shares for a total cash consideration of Php2,700 million. On the same date, MPIC also subscribed to 135 million Beacon common shares for a total cash consideration of Php2,700 million.

Sale of Beacon Preferred Shares to MPIC

On June 6, 2012, PCEV agreed to sell approximately 282 million of its Beacon preferred             shares to MPIC for total cash consideration of Php3,563 million. The sale was completed on June 29, 2012. Since Beacon preferred shares were sold to an entity not included in PLDT Group, PCEV realized a portion of the deferred gain amounting to Php2,012 million, which was recorded when the underlying Meralco shares were transferred to Beacon.

Sale of Beacon’s Meralco Shares to MPIC

Beacon has entered into the following Share Purchase Agreements with MPIC:

                                         
    Number of   % of Meralco                   Deferred Gain
Date   Shares Sold   Shareholdings Sold   Price Per Share   Total Price   Realized(1)
    (in millions)                   (in millions)   (in millions)
June 24, 2014
    56.35       5 %   Php235.00   Php13,243   Php1,418
April 14, 2015
    112.71       10 %     235.00       26,487       2,838  
 
                                       

  (1)   Since Beacon sold the shares to an entity not included in the PLDT Group, PCEV realized portion of the deferred gain which was recognized when the Meralco shares were transferred to Beacon.

On June 24, 2014, MPIC settled portion of the consideration amounting to Php3,000 million and the balance was paid on February 27, 2015 amounting to Php10,243 million.

As part of the April 14, 2015 sale, MPIC settled a portion of the consideration amounting to Php1,000 million on April 14, 2015 and Php17,000 million on June 29, 2015, both of which were used by Beacon to partially settle its outstanding loans. MPIC paid Beacon the balance of Php8,487 million on July 29, 2016.

PCEV’s effective interest in Meralco, through Beacon, was reduced to 17.48%, while MPIC’s effective interest in Meralco, through its direct ownership of Meralco shares and through Beacon, increased to 32.48% as at December 31, 2015. There is no change in the aggregate joint interest of MPIC and Beacon in Meralco which remained at 49.96% as at December 31, 2015.

The carrying value of PCEV’s investment in Beacon, net of deferred gain of Php9,924 million, was Php32,304 million as at December 31, 2015.

Sale of PCEV’s Beacon Shares to MPIC

On May 30, 2016, as approved by the Board, PCEV entered into a Share Purchase Agreement with MPIC to sell its 646 million shares of common stock and 458 million shares of preferred stock of Beacon, representing approximately 25% equity interest in Beacon to MPIC for a total consideration of Php26,200 million. MPIC settled a portion of the consideration amounting to Php17,000 million immediately upon signing of the agreement and the balance of Php9,200 million will be paid in annual installments until June 2020. Consequently, PCEV realized a portion of the deferred gain amounting to Php4,962 million. After the sale, PCEV’s equity ownership in Beacon was reduced from 50% to 25%, while MPIC’s interest increased to 75%. MPIC agreed that for as long as: (i) PCEV owns at least 20% of the outstanding capital stock of Beacon; or (ii) the purchase price has not been fully paid by MPIC, PCEV shall retain the right to vote 50% of the outstanding capital stock of Beacon.

As at September 30, 2016, PCEV’s effective interest in Meralco, through Beacon, was reduced to 8.74%, while MPIC’s effective interest in Meralco, through its direct ownership in Meralco shares and through Beacon, increased to 41.22%. There is no change in the aggregate joint interest of MPIC and Beacon in Meralco which remains at 49.96%.

Beacon effectively owns 394 million Meralco common shares representing approximately 34.96% effective ownership in Meralco with a carrying value of Php83,657 million and market value of Php122,316 million based on quoted price of Php310 per share as at September 30, 2016 and carrying value of Php87,831 million and market value of Php126,099 million based on quoted price of Php320 per share as at December 31, 2015.

PCEV’s Additional Investment in Beacon Class “B” Preferred Shares

On May 30, 2016, the Board of Directors of Beacon approved the increase in authorized capital stock of Beacon from Php5,000 million to Php6,000 million divided into 3,000 million common shares with a par value of Php1.00 per share, 2,000 million Class “A” preferred             shares with a par value of Php1.00 per share and 1,000 million new Class “B” preferred             shares with a par value of Php1.00 per share. On August 10, 2016, the Philippine SEC approved the increase in Beacon’s authorized capital and issuance of new class of preferred             shares.

Class “B” preferred shares of Beacon are non-voting, not convertible to common shares or any             shares of Beacon of any class and have no pre-emptive rights to subscribe to any share or convertible debt, securities or warrants issued or sold by Beacon. The Class “B” preferred             shares are entitled to liquidation preference and yearly cumulative dividends at the rate of 6% of the issue value subject to: (a) availability of unrestricted retained earnings; and (b) dividend payment will not violate any dividend restrictions imposed by Beacon’s bank creditors.

PCEV subscribed to 277 million Beacon Class “B” preferred shares for a total cash consideration of Php3,500 million. MPIC likewise subscribed to 277 million Beacon Class “B” preferred shares for a total cash consideration of Php3,500 million.

The amount raised from the subscription was used to fund the subscription to shares of common stock of Global Business Power Corporation, or Global Power, through Beacon Powergen Holdings, Inc., or Beacon Powergen.

On September 9, 2016, the Board of Directors of Beacon approved the redemption of 198 million Class “B” preferred shares held by PCEV at an aggregate redemption price equal to the aggregate issue price of Php2,500 million. On the same date, Beacon also declared cash dividends on the said preferred shares amounting to Php21 million. The redemption price and cash dividend were paid on September 30, 2016. PCEV accounts for its subscription in Beacon’s Class “B” preferred shares as available-for-sale investments.

Beacon’s Acquisition of Global Power

On May 27, 2016, Beacon, through a wholly-owned subsidiary, Beacon Powergen, entered into a Share Purchase Agreement with GT Capital Holdings, Inc., to acquire an aggregate 56% of the issued share capital of Global Power for a total consideration of Php22,058 million. Beacon Powergen settled Php11,029 million upon closing and the balance via a vendor financing facility, which was replaced with a long-term bank debt in August 2016.

Global Power is the leading power supplier in Visayas with 852 megawatts, or MW, of coal and diesel powered generating capacity at present, including 150MW to commence operations later this year, and 670MW for further expansion.

After the acquisition, PCEV’s effective interest in Global Power, through Beacon, is 14%, while MPIC’s effective interest in Global Power, through Beacon, is 42%.

Beacon’s Dividend Declaration

A summary of Beacon’s dividend declarations are shown below:

                                 
Date of Declaration   Date of Payment   Holders   Amount   Share of PCEV
                    (in millions)
March 31, 2016
  July 29, 2016   Class “A” Preferred   Php945   Php473
June 30, 2016
  July 29, 2016   Class “A” Preferred     1,485       743  
July 14, 2016
  July 29, 2016   Common     6,056       3,028  
August 12, 2016
  August 30, 2016   Common     289       144  
September 9, 2016
  September 30, 2016   Class “B” Preferred     21       21  
 
                               
Total dividends declared as at September
                       
30, 2016 (Unaudited)
                  Php8,796   Php4,409
 
                       
February 26, 2015
  February 27, 2015   Common   Php4,277   Php2,139
March 30, 2015
  April 24, 2015   Class “A” Preferred     810       405  
 
                               
Total dividends declared as at December 31, 2015 (Audited)
                  Php5,087   Php2,544
 
                               

PCEV’s share in the cash dividends for Class “A” preferred shares and common shares was deducted from the carrying value of the investment in joint venture, while PCEV’s share in the cash dividends for Class “B” preferred shares was recognized as dividend income.

Beacon’s Financing

Beacon has outstanding loans amounting to Php11,724 million and Php12,260 million as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively, which were secured by a pledge over the Meralco shares and were not guaranteed by PLDT. The loans were not included in our consolidated long-term debt.

iCommerce’s Investment in PHIH

On January 20, 2015, PLDT and Rocket entered into a JVA to further strengthen their existing partnership and to foster the development of internet-based businesses in the Philippines.  PLDT, through iCommerce, a subsidiary of Voyager’s eInnovations, and Asia Internet Holding S.à r.l., which is 50%-owned by Rocket, are shareholders in PHIH.

PHIH focuses on creating and developing online businesses in the Philippines, leveraging local market and business model insights, facilitating commercial, strategic and investment partnerships, enabling local recruiting and sourcing, and accelerating the rollout of online startups.

PLDT, through iCommerce, acquired a 33.33% equity interest in PHIH. iCommerce has the option to increase its equity interest to 50%. iCommerce became a shareholder of PHIH on October 14, 2015 and paid approximately 7.4 million on October 27, 2015 for the first installment. The carrying value of the investment in PHIH amounted to 30.5 million, or Php1,591 million, including subscription payable of 22.6 million, or Php1,176 million, and capitalized professional fees and other start-up costs for the investment in PHIH amounted to Php32 million.

eInnovations’ Investment in ECommerce Pay

On January 6, 2015, PLDT, through eInnovations, entered into a JVA with Rocket, pursuant to which the two parties agreed to form ECommerce Pay Holding S.à.r.l., or ECommerce Pay, of which each partner holds a 50% equity interest.  ECommerce Pay is a global joint venture company for payment services with a focus on emerging markets.

On July 30, 2015, eInnovations became a 50% shareholder of ECommerce Pay and invested 1.2 million into ECommerce Pay on August 11, 2015. 

On February 3, 2016, eInnovations further contributed its subsidiary ePay, including the intellectual property, platforms and business operations of its mobile-first platform, PayMaya, as had been agreed in the JVA. Rocket contributed, among other things, its equity in Paymill Holding GmbH and Payleven Holding GmbH, which operated via its subsidiaries, payment platforms for high growth, small-and-medium sized e-commerce businesses.

Consequently, in February 2016, the ownership of ePay and its subsidiaries, or the ePay Group, was transferred from eInnovations to ECommerce Pay and PLDT ceased to recognize the ePay Group as its subsidiary.

Rocket and PLDT via eInnovations agreed to end the joint venture with control and all rights in ePay to be returned to eInnovations via a retransfer of the shares in ePay. In return, eInnovations agreed to give up its 50% ownership and all claims in connection with ECommerce Pay. On July 29, 2016, eInnovations exited ECommerce Pay and complete control of ePay, including the intellectual property, platforms and business operations of its mobile-first platform, PayMaya, was returned to eInnovations.

PLDT and Rocket have decided to unwind the joint venture to better focus on their respective areas of operation and current priorities. Both continue to explore areas of possible future collaboration.

Summarized Financial Information of Joint Ventures

The table below presents the summarized financial information of Beacon as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015 and for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015:

                 
    September 30,   December 31,
    2016   2015
    (Unaudited)   (Audited)
    (in million pesos)
Statements of Financial Position:
               
Noncurrent assets
    95,183       87,831  
Current assets
    4,089       10,874  
Equity
    86,559       85,325  
Noncurrent liabilities
    11,268       12,149  
Current liabilities
    1,445       1,231  
 
               
Additional Information:
               
Cash and cash equivalents
    4,082       2,270  
Current financial liabilities*
    1,140       1,084  
Noncurrent financial liabilities*
    10,584       11,176  
 
               

  *   Excluding trade, other payables and provisions.

                 
    September 30,
    2016   2015
    (Unaudited)
    (in million pesos)
Income Statements:
               
Revenues — equity share in net earnings
    5,590       5,939  
Expenses
    4       6  
Interest income
    209       350  
Interest expense
    690       1,474  
Net income
    5,105       5,831  
Other comprehensive income (loss)
    442       (219 )
Total comprehensive income
    5,547       5,612  
 
               

The following table presents the reconciliation between the share in Beacon’s equity and the carrying value of investment in Beacon as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015:

                 
    September30,   December 31,
    2016   2015
    (Unaudited)   (Audited)
    (in million pesos)
Beacon’s equity
    86,559       85,325  
Outstanding Class “B” preferred shares and dividends paid on Class “B”
    (4,462 )      
 
               
Beacon’s equity (excluding outstanding Class “B” preferred shares)
    82,097       85,325  
PCEV’s ownership interest
    25 %     50 %
 
               
Share in net assets of Beacon
    20,524       42,663  
Purchase price allocation adjustments
    (134 )     (88 )
Dividends in arrears
    (1,957 )      
Deferred gain on transfer of Meralco shares
    (4,962 )     (9,924 )
Others
    (137 )     (347 )
 
               
Carrying amount of interest in Beacon
    13,334       32,304  
 
               

The table below presents our aggregate share in the statements of financial position of our other investments in joint ventures as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015:

                 
    September 30,   December 31,
    2016   2015
    (Unaudited)   (Audited)
    (in million pesos)
Statements of Financial Position:
               
Noncurrent assets
    19,613        
Current assets
    3,980       2  
Equity
    8,558       2  
Noncurrent liabilities
    8,740        
Current liabilities
    6,295        
 
               

The table below presents our aggregate share in the income statements of our other investments in joint ventures for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015:

             
    September 30,
    2016   2015
    (Unaudited)
    (in million pesos)
Income Statements:
 
 
Revenues
    739    
Expenses
    1,818    
Other expenses – net
    (43 )  
Net loss
    (1,122 )  
Other comprehensive income
       
Total comprehensive loss
    (1,122 )  
 
           

Our aggregate share in the revenues, expenses, other expenses – net, net loss, other comprehensive income, and total comprehensive loss of our other investments in joint ventures for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015 are considered immaterial in relation to our consolidated financial statements.

We have no outstanding contingent liabilities or capital commitments with our joint ventures as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015.

11. Available-for-Sale Financial Investments

Investment of PLDT Online in iFlix Limited, or iFlix

On April 23, 2015, PLDT Online subscribed to a convertible note of iFlix, an internet TV service provider in Southeast Asia, for US$15 million, or Php686 million.  The convertible note was issued and paid on August 11, 2015. iFlix will use the funds to continue roll out of the iFlix subscription video-on-demand services across the Southeast Asian region, acquire rights to new content, and produce original programming to market to potential customers. 

This investment is in line with our strategy to develop new revenue streams and to complement our present business by participating in the digital world beyond providing access and connectivity.

On March 10, 2016, the US$15 million convertible notes held by PLDT Online were converted into 20.7 million ordinary shares of iFlix after it completed a new round of funding led by Sky Plc, Europe’s leading entertainment company and the Indonesian company, Emtek Group, through its subsidiary, PT Surya Citra Media Tbk, or SCMA. PLDT Online’s shares account for the 7.5% of the total equity stock of iFlix.

Investment of PLDT Capital in Matrixx

On December 18, 2015, PLDT Capital entered into a Stock and Warrant Purchase Agreement with Matrixx, a Delaware corporation. Matrixx provides the IT foundation to move to an all-digital service environment with a new real-time technology platform designed to handle the surge in interactions without forcing the compromises of conventional technology. Under the terms of the agreement, PLDT Capital subscribed to convertible Series B Preferred Stock of Matrixx for a total consideration of US$5 million, or Php237 million, and is entitled to purchase additional Series B Preferred Stock upon occurrence of certain conditions on or before March 15, 2016. PLDT Capital did not exercise its right to purchase additional Series B Preferred Stock of Matrixx.

Investment of PLDT Online in Rocket

On August 7, 2014, PLDT and Rocket entered into a global strategic partnership to drive the development of online and mobile payment solutions in emerging markets. Rocket provides a platform for the rapid creation and scaling of consumer internet businesses outside the U.S. and China. Rocket’s prominent brands include the leading Southeast Asian e-Commerce businesses Zalora and Lazada, as well as fast growing brands with strong positions in their markets such as Dafiti, Linio, Jumia, Namshi, Lamoda, Jabong, Westwing, Home24 and HelloFresh in Latin America, Africa, Middle East, Russia, India and Europe. Financial technology and payments comprise Rocket’s third sector where it anticipates numerous and significant growth opportunities.

Pursuant to the terms of the investment agreement, PLDT invested 333 million, or Php19,577 million, in cash, for new shares equivalent to a 10% stake in Rocket as at August 2014. These new shares are of the same class and bear the same rights as the Rocket shares held by the investors as at the date of the agreement namely, Investment AB Kinnevik and Access Industries, in addition to Global Founders GmbH (formerly European Founders Fund GmbH). PLDT made the 333 million investment in two payments (September 8 and September 15, 2014), which it funded from available cash and new debt.

Concurrently with the investment, PLDT and Rocket agreed pursuant to a JVA to jointly develop mobile and online payments in emerging markets. The partnership is expected to leverage PLDT’s experience and intellectual property in mobile payments and remittance platforms, together with Rocket’s global technology platform, to provide products and services for the “unbanked, uncarded and unconnected” population in emerging markets.

On August 21, 2014, PLDT assigned all its rights, title and interests as well as all of its obligations related to its investment in Rocket, to PLDT Online, an indirectly wholly-owned subsidiary of PLDT.

On October 1, 2014, Rocket announced the pricing of its initial public offering, or IPO, at 42.50 per share. On October 2, 2014, Rocket listed its shares on Entry Standard of the Frankfurt Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol “RKET.” Our ownership stake in Rocket after the IPO was reduced to 6.6%. In February 2015, due to additional issuances of shares by Rocket, our ownership percentage in Rocket was further reduced to 6.1%. Total costs directly attributable to the acquisition of Rocket shares and recognized as part of the cost of investment amounted to Php134 million.

Further details on investment in Rocket are as follows:

                 
    September 30,   December 31,
    2016   2015
    (Unaudited)   (Audited)
Total market value as at beginning of the period (in million pesos)
    14,587       27,855  
Closing price per share at period-end (in Euros)
    19.13       28.24  
Total market value as at period-end (in million Euros)
    193       285  
Total market value as at end of the period (in million pesos) (Note 3)
    10,515       14,587  
Recognized in other comprehensive income (loss) (in million pesos)
    1,309       (8,144 )
Recognized in profit or loss (in million pesos) (Notes 3, 4 and 5)
    (5,381 )     (5,124 )
 
               
Net losses from changes in fair value recognized during the period (in million pesos)
    (4,072 )     (13,268 )
 
               

Based on our judgment, the decline in fair value of our investment in Rocket to Php14,587 million as at December 31, 2015 is considered significant as the cumulative net losses from changes in fair value amounting to Php5,124 million represents 26% decline in value below cost. As a result, we recognized in our consolidated income statement an impairment of our investment in Rocket amounting to Php5,124 million for the year ended December 31, 2015. We recognized additional impairment loss of Php5,381 million as the fair value of Rocket further declined to Php9,206 million for the six months ended June 30, 2016. On September 30, 2016, we recognized an unrealized gain of Php1,309 million in our consolidated other comprehensive income in the “Net gains (losses) on available-for-sale financial investments” account due to slight recovery of Rocket’s fair value to Php10,515 million as at September 30, 2016. See Note 3 – Management’s Use of Accounting Judgments, Estimates and Assumptions – Impairment of available-for-sale equity investments.

On September 26, 2016, Rocket Internet applied for admission to trading under the regulated market (Prime Standard) of the Frankfurt Stock Exchange. RKET has been admitted to the Prime Standard and is part of the Frankfurt Stock Exchange’s SDAX.

As at November 11, 2016, closing price of Rocket is 19.00 per share resulting to total market value of PLDT’s stake in Rocket of 192 million, or Php10,163 million.

12. Investment in Debt Securities and Other Long-term Investments

As at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, this account consists of:

                 
    September 30,   December 31,
    2016   2015
    (Unaudited)   (Audited)
    (in million pesos)
Security Bank Corporation, or Security Bank, Time Deposits
    339       330  
Beta’s preferred shares (Note 10)
    259       265  
PSALM Bonds
    203       207  
GT Capital Bond
    150       150  
National Power Corporation, or NAPOCOR, Bond
    50       51  
 
    1,001       1,003  
Less current portion (Note 28)
    253       51  
 
               
Noncurrent portion (Note 28)
     748        952  
 
               

Security Bank Time Deposits

In October 2012, PLDT and Smart invested US$2.5 million each in a five-year time deposit with Security Bank maturing on October 11, 2017 at a gross coupon rate of 4.00%. These long-term fixed rate time deposits pay interest on a monthly basis or an estimate of 30 days. The deposits may be terminated prior to maturity at the applicable pretermination rates. Interest income, net of withholding tax, recognized on this investment amounted to US$141 thousand, or Php6.6 million, and US$140.3 thousand, or Php6.4 million, for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015, respectively. The carrying value of this investment amounted to Php242 million and Php236 million as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively.

In May 2013, PLDT invested US$2.0 million in a five-year time deposit with Security Bank maturing on May 31, 2018 at a gross coupon rate of 3.5%. These long-term fixed rate time deposits pay interest on a monthly basis or an estimate of 30 days. The deposits may be terminated prior to maturity at the applicable pretermination rates. Interest income, net of withholding tax, recognized on this investment amounted to US$49 thousand, or Php2.3 million, and US$49 thousand, or Php2.2 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015, respectively. The carrying value of this investment amounted to Php97 million and Php94 million as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively.

Investment in Beta’s Preferred Shares

See Note 10 – Investments in Associates and Joint Ventures – Investment of PGIC in Beta for the detailed discussion of our investment.

PSALM Bonds

In April 2013, Smart purchased, at a premium, PSALM Bonds with face value of Php200 million maturing on April 22, 2017 with yield-to-maturity at 4.25% gross. The bond has a gross coupon rate of 7.75% payable on a quarterly basis, and was recognized as held-to-maturity investment. Premium is amortized using the EIR method. Interest income, net of withholding tax, recognized on this investment amounted to Php9.3 million and Php13.1 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015, respectively. The carrying value of this investment amounted to Php203 million and Php207 million as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively.

In August 2013, Smart purchased, at a premium, PSALM Bonds with face value of Php100 million with yield-to-maturity at 3.25% gross. The bond has a gross coupon rate of 6.88% payable on a quarterly basis, and was recognized as held-to-maturity investment. Premium is amortized using the EIR method. Interest income, net of withholding tax, recognized on this investment amounted to Php827 thousand for the nine months ended September 30, 2015. This investment matured on April 22, 2015.

In January 2014, Smart purchased, at a premium, additional PSALM Bonds with face value of Php60 million with yield-to-maturity at 3.00% gross. The bond has a gross coupon rate of 6.88% payable on a quarterly basis, and was recognized as held-to-maturity investment. Premium is amortized using the EIR method. Interest income, net of withholding tax, recognized on this investment amounted to Php289 thousand for the nine months ended September 30, 2015. This investment matured on April 22, 2015.

GT Capital Bond

In February 2013, Smart purchased at par a seven-year GT Capital Bond with face value of Php150 million maturing on February 27, 2020. The bond has a gross coupon rate of 4.84% payable on a quarterly basis, and was recognized as held-to-maturity investment. Interest income, net of withholding tax, recognized on this investment amounted to Php4.3 million each for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015. The carrying value of this investment amounted to Php150 million each as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015.

NAPOCOR Bond

In March 2014, Smart purchased, at a premium, a NAPOCOR Bond with face value of Php50 million maturing on December 19, 2016 with yield-to-maturity at 4.22% gross. The bond has a gross coupon rate of 7.34% payable on a semi-annual basis, and was recognized as held-to-maturity investment. This investment is a tax-exempt bond. Premium is amortized using the EIR method. Interest income recognized on this investment amounted to Php2.2 million and Php1.3 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015, respectively. The carrying value of this investment amounted to Php50 million and Php51 million as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively.

Home Development Mutual Fund, or HDMF Bonds

In June 2014, Smart purchased, at a premium, HDMF Bonds with face value of Php100 million with yield-to-maturity at 2.75% gross. The bond has a gross coupon rate of 6.25% payable on a semi-annual basis, and was recognized as held-to-maturity investment. This investment is a tax-exempt bond. Premium is amortized using the EIR method. Interest income recognized on this investment amounted to Php468 thousand for the nine months ended September 30, 2015. This investment matured on March 12, 2015.

Philippine Retail Treasury Bond, or Philippine RTB

In January 2014, Smart purchased, at a premium, a Philippine RTB with face value of Php32 million with yield-to-maturity at 2.38% gross. The bond has a gross coupon rate of 5.88% payable on a quarterly basis, and was recognized as held-to-maturity investment. Premium is amortized using the EIR method. Interest income, net of withholding tax, recognized on this investment amounted to Php303 thousand for the nine months ended September 30, 2015. This investment matured on August 19, 2015.

13. Investment Properties

Changes in investment properties account for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and for the year ended December 31, 2015 are as follows:

                                 
    Land   Land Improvements   Building   Total
    (in million pesos)
September 30, 2016 (Unaudited)
                               
Balance at beginning and end of the period (Note 4)
    1,496       9       320       1,825  
Transfers from property and equipment
    39                   39  
 
                               
Balance at end of the year (Note 4)
    1,535       9        320       1,864  
 
                               
December 31, 2015 (Audited)
                               
Balance at beginning of the year
    1,479       10       327       1,816  
Net gains (losses) from fair value adjustments charged to profit or loss
    18       (1 )     (7 )     10  
Disposals
    (6 )                 (6 )
Transfers from property and equipment
    5                   5  
 
                               
Balance at end of the year (Note 4)
    1,496       9        320       1,825  
 
                               

Investment properties, which consist of land, land improvements and building, are stated at fair values, which have been determined based on appraisal performed by an independent firm of appraisers, an industry specialist in valuing these types of investment properties. None of our investment properties are being leased to third parties that earn rental income.

The valuation for land was based on a market approach valuation technique using price per square meter ranging from Php13 to Php140 thousand. The valuation for building and land improvements were based on a cost approach valuation technique using current material and labor costs for improvements based on external and independent reviewers.

We have determined that the highest and best use of some of the idle or vacant land properties at the measurement date would be to convert the properties for residential or commercial development. The properties are not being used for strategic reasons.

We have no restrictions on the realizability of our investment properties and no contractual obligations to either purchase, construct or develop investment properties or for repairs, maintenance and enhancements.

Repairs and maintenance expenses related to investment properties that do not generate rental income amounted to Php19 million and Php21 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015, respectively.

The above investment properties were categorized under Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy. There were no transfers in and out of Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy.

Significant increases (decreases) in price per square meter for land, current material and labor costs of improvements would result in a significantly higher (lower) fair value measurement.

14. Business Combinations

2015 Acquisition

Takatack Holdings’ Acquisition of Takatack Technologies

On August 6, 2015, Voyager, through Takatack Holdings acquired a 100% equity interest in Takatack Technologies for a total cash consideration of US$5 million, or Php233 million, of which US$3 million, or Php148 million, was paid in August 2015 and US$2 million, or Php86 million, is payable in 11 quarterly installments, subject to satisfaction of certain conditions. The acquisition is consistent with the PLDT Group’s focus to build Voyager into a digital economy platforms-enabler, allowing it to build its digital commerce business in the Philippines and other emerging markets. Takatack Technologies is a Singapore-based company behind the online store, TackThis!, a cloud-based e-commerce platform operating on software as a service model that enables companies to easily set-up and showcase their businesses on various online platforms.

The purchase price consideration has been allocated to the identifiable assets and liabilities on the basis of provisional values at the date of acquisition. The corresponding carrying amounts immediately before the acquisition are as follows:

                                 
                    Fair Values
    Previous Carrying Values   Recognized on Acquisition
    In S.G. Dollar   In Php(1)   In S.G. Dollar   In Php(1)
            (in millions)        
Assets:
                               
Property and equipment (Note 9)
          0.1             0.1  
Cash and cash equivalents
    0.1       2.7       0.1       2.7  
Trade receivables
    0.1       5.1       0.1       5.1  
Prepayments and other current assets
          0.4             0.4  
 
                               
 
    0.2       8.3       0.2       8.3  
 
                               
Liabilities:
                               
Accounts payable and other liabilities
    0.1       4.6       0.1       4.6  
Total identifiable net assets acquired
    0.1       3.7       0.1       3.7  
Goodwill from the acquisition (Note 15)
                    6.9       229.5  
 
                               
Purchase consideration transferred
                    7.0       233.2  
 
                               
Cash paid
                    4.4       147.6  
Accounts payable – others
                    2.6       85.6  
 
                               
 
                    7.0       233.2  
 
                               
Cash flow from investing activity:
                               
Cash paid
                    4.4       147.5  
Cash acquired
                    (0.1 )     (2.7 )
 
                               
 
                    4.3       144.8  
 
                               

  (1)   Converted to Philippine Peso using the exchange rate at the time of purchase of Php33.23 to SGD1.00.

The transactions resulted in a Php229 million goodwill pertaining to the projected global rollout of the
e-commerce business.

Our consolidated revenues would have increased by Php2 million and net income would have decreased by Php7 million for the year ended December 31, 2015 had the acquisition of Takatack Technologies actually taken place on January 1, 2015.

15. Goodwill and Intangible Assets

Changes in goodwill and intangible assets for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and for the year ended December 31, 2015 are as follows:

                                                                                                 
        Intangible Assets with                                           Total                
        Indefinite Life   Intangible Assets with Finite Life   Intangible Assets   Total           Total Goodwill and
                                                                        with            
        Trademark   Franchise   Customer List   Licenses   Spectrum   Others   Finite Life   Intangible Assets   Goodwill   Intangible Assets
        (in million pesos)
September 30, 2016 (Unaudited)                                                                            
Costs:                                                                            
Balance at beginning of the period   4,505     3,016       4,726       1,079       1,205       1,189       11,215       15,720       63,092       78,812  
Additions                   636             122        758        758              758  
Translation and other adjustments                               32       32       32       99        131  
Balance at end of the period   4,505     3,016       4,726       1,715       1,205       1,343       12,005       16,510       63,191       79,701  
                                                                             
                                                                             
Accumulated amortization and impairment:
                                                                       
Balance at beginning of the period       775       2,258       924       911       1,128       5,996       5,996       699       6,695  
Amortization during the period (Note 3)
          140       383       209       60       29        821        821              821  
Translation and other adjustments                               35       35       35             35  
                                                                             
Balance at end of the period        915       2,641       1,133        971       1,192       6,852       6,852        699       7,551  
                                                                             
Net balance at end of the period (Note 3)
  4,505     2,101       2,085        582       234        151       5,153       9,658       62,492       72,150  
 
                                                                           
                                                                             
Estimated useful lives (in years)       16       9       2 – 18       15       1 – 10                          
Remaining useful lives (in years)       11       4       3 – 6       3       1 – 5                          
                                                                             
                                                                             
December 31, 2015 (Audited)                                                                            
Costs:                                                                            
Balance at beginning of the year   4,505     3,016       4,726       972       1,205       1,177       11,096       15,601       62,863       78,464  
Business combinations (Note 14)                                                 229        229  
Additions                   107             15        122        122              122  
Translation and other adjustments                               (3 )     (3 )     (3 )           (3 )
Balance at end of the year   4,505     3,016       4,726       1,079       1,205       1,189       11,215       15,720       63,092       78,812  
                                                                             
                                                                             
Accumulated amortization and impairment:
                                                                       
Balance at beginning of the year       589       1,748       645       830       1,111       4,923       4,923       699       5,622  
Amortization during the year (Note 3)       186       510       279       81       20       1,076       1,076             1,076  
Translation and other adjustments                               (3 )     (3 )     (3 )           (3 )
Balance at end of the year        775       2,258        924        911       1,128       5,996       5,996        699       6,695  
                                                                             
Net balance at end of the year (Note 3)   4,505     2,241       2,468        155        294       61       5,219       9,724       62,393       72,117  
                                                                             
                                                                             
Estimated useful lives (in years)       16       9       2 – 18       15       1 – 10                          
Remaining useful lives (in years)       12       5       1 – 7       4       2 – 4                          
                                                                             

The consolidated goodwill and intangible assets of our reportable segments as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015 are as follows:

                         
    September 30, 2016 (Unaudited)
    Wireless   Fixed Line   Total
            (in million pesos)        
Trademark
    4,505             4,505  
Franchise
    2,101             2,101  
Customer list
    2,085             2,085  
Licenses
    582              582  
Spectrum
    234              234  
Others
    151              151  
Total intangible assets
    9,658             9,658  
Goodwill
    57,684       4,808       62,492  
 
                       
Total goodwill and intangible assets (Note 3)
    67,342       4,808       72,150  
 
                       
                         
    December 31, 2015 (Audited)
    Wireless   Fixed Line   Total
            (in million pesos)        
Trademark
    4,505             4,505  
Customer list
    2,468             2,468  
Franchise
    2,241             2,241  
Spectrum
    294              294  
Licenses
    155              155  
Others
    61             61  
Total intangible assets
    9,724             9,724  
Goodwill
    57,585       4,808       62,393  
 
                       
Total goodwill and intangible assets (Note 3)
    67,309       4,808       72,117  
 
                       

Intangible Assets

In April 2013, Smart entered into a three-year licensing agreement with MCA Music, Inc., an affiliate of the Universal Music Group, the world’s largest music company with wholly-owned record operations in 77 countries. On July 15, 2015, Smart extended the licensing agreement for another three years.

In July 2013, Smart entered into an 18-month licensing agreement with Ivory Music and Video, Inc., a domestic corporation and one of the major labels in the Philippine music industry. The agreement, which expired on December 31, 2014 was renewed for another two years commencing on January 1, 2015.

In February 2014, Smart entered into a two-year licensing agreement with Universal Records Philippines, Inc., or Universal Records, and PolyEast Records, Inc., or PolyEast Records. The agreement granted Smart an exclusive right to sell digital products of Universal Records and PolyEast Records such as downloading and streaming of digital audio and video. On September 1, 2015, Smart extended the licensing agreement for another two years.

In August 2015, Smart entered into an asset purchase agreement with Wifi Nation Philippines, Inc., or Wifi Nation, for a total consideration of Php15 million. Under the terms of the agreement, Smart acquired the assigned assets of Wifi Nation such as all its rights, titles and interests in its technology platform, patents, patent applications, contracts, intellectual property rights, and the business and trade name “Wifi Nation”. Smart recognized intangible assets of Php15 million for the technology applications, amortized over the remaining life of the customer contracts acquired. Amortization amounted to Php8 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2016.

The consolidated future amortization of intangible assets with finite life as at September 30, 2016 is as follows:

         
Year   (in million pesos)
2016(1)
    274  
2017
    1,043  
2018
    1,025  
2019
    845  
2020 and onwards
    1,966  
 
       
(Note 3)
    5,153  
 
       

  (1)   October 1, 2016 through December 31, 2016.

Impairment Testing of Goodwill and Intangible Assets with Indefinite Life

The organizational structure of PLDT and its subsidiaries is designed to monitor financial operations based on fixed line and wireless segmentation. Management provides guidelines and decisions on resource allocation, such as continuing or disposing of asset and operations by evaluating the performance of each segment through review and analysis of available financial information on the fixed line and wireless segments. As at September 30, 2016, the PLDT Group’s goodwill comprised of goodwill resulting from acquisition of Takatack Technologies in 2015, PLDT’s additional investment in PG1 in 2014, Smart’s acquisition of WiFun in 2014, ePLDT’s acquisition of IPCDSI in 2012, PLDT’s acquisition of Digitel in 2011, ePLDT’s acquisition of ePDS in 2011, Smart’s acquisition of PDSI and Chikka in 2009, Smart’s acquisition of CURE in 2008, and Smart’s acquisition of SBI in 2004. The test for recoverability of the PLDT’s and Smart’s goodwill was applied to the fixed line and wireless asset group, respectively, which represent the lowest level within our business at which we monitor goodwill.

Although revenue streams may be segregated among the companies within the PLDT Group, the cost items and cash flows are difficult to carve out due largely to the significant portion of shared and common used network/platform. The same is true for Sun, wherein Smart 2G/3G network, cellular base stations and fiber optic backbone are shared for areas where Sun has limited connectivity and facilities. On the other hand, PLDT has the largest fixed line network in the Philippines.  PLDT’s transport facilities are installed nationwide to cover both domestic and international IP backbone to route and transmit IP traffic generated by the customers. In the same manner, PLDT has the most Internet Gateway facilities which are composed of high capacity IP routers and switches that serve as the main gateway of the Philippines to the Internet connecting to the World Wide Web.  With PLDT’s network coverage, other fixed line subsidiaries share the same facilities to leverage on a Group perspective.

Given the significant common use of network facilities among fixed line and wireless companies within the PLDT Group, Management views that the wireless and fixed line operating segments are the lowest CGU to which goodwill is to be allocated and which are expected to benefit from the synergies.

The recoverable amount of the wireless and fixed line segments had been determined using the value in use approach calculated using cash flow projections based on the financial budgets approved by the Board of Directors, covering a three-year period from 2016 to 2018.  The pre-tax discount rate applied to cash flow projections is 10.8% and 10.5% for the wireless and fixed line segments, respectively.  Cash flows beyond the three-year period are determined using a 3.0% growth rate for the wireless and fixed line segments, which is the same as the long-term average growth rate for the telecommunications industry.

Based on the assessment of the value-in-use of the wireless and fixed line segments, the recoverable amount of the CGUs exceeded their carrying amounts, which as a result, no impairment was recognized as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015 in relation to goodwill.

16. Cash and Cash Equivalents

As at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, this account consists of:

                 
    September 30,   December 31,
    2016   2015
    (Unaudited)   (Audited)
    (in million pesos)
Cash on hand and in banks (Note 28)
    6,635       7,352  
Temporary cash investments (Note 28)
    19,760       39,103  
 
               
 
    26,395       46,455  
 
               

Cash in banks earn interest at prevailing bank deposit rates. Temporary cash investments are made for varying periods of up to three months depending on our immediate cash requirements, and earn interest at the prevailing temporary cash investment rates. Due to the short-term nature of such transactions, the carrying value approximates the fair value of our temporary cash investments. See Note 28 – Financial Assets and Liabilities.

Interest income earned from cash in banks and temporary cash investments amounted to Php437 million and Php422 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015, respectively.

17. Trade and Other Receivables

As at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, this account consists of receivables from:

                 
    September 30,   December 31,
    2016   2015
    (Unaudited)   (Audited)
    (in million pesos)
Retail subscribers (Note 28)
    21,580       19,750  
Corporate subscribers (Notes 25 and 28)
    10,920       9,263  
Foreign administrations (Note 28)
    5,995       5,514  
Domestic carriers (Notes 25 and 28)
    789       540  
Dealers, agents and others (Notes 25 and 28)
    8,042       5,752  
 
               
 
    47,326       40,819  
Less allowance for doubtful accounts (Notes 3, 5 and 28)
    21,188       15,921  
 
               
 
    26,138       24,898  
 
               

Receivables from foreign administrations and domestic carriers represent receivables based on interconnection agreements with other telecommunications carriers. The aforementioned amounts of receivables are shown net of related payables to the same telecommunications carriers where a legal right of offset exists and settlement is facilitated on a net basis.

Receivables from dealers, agents and others consist mainly of receivables from credit card companies, dealers and distributors having collection arrangements with the PLDT Group, dividend receivables and advances from affiliates.

Trade receivables are non-interest-bearing and are generally with settlement term of 30 to 180 days.

For terms and conditions relating to related party receivables, see Note 25 – Related Party Transactions.

See Note 25 – Related Party Transactions for the summary of transactions with related parties and Note 28 – Financial Assets and Liabilities – Credit Risk on credit risk of trade receivables to understand how we manage and measure credit quality of trade receivables that are neither past due nor impaired.

Changes in the allowance for doubtful accounts for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and for the year ended December 31, 2015 are as follows:

                                                 
                    Corporate   Foreign           Dealers,
    Total   Retail Subscribers   Subscribers   Administrations   Domestic Carriers   Agents and Others
    (in million pesos)
September 30, 2016 (Unaudited)
                                       
Balance at beginning of the period
    15,921       9,540       4,451       315       86       1,529  
Provisions and other adjustments
    6,606       6,091       448       (33 )     38       62  
Write-offs
    (1,339 )     (1,236 )     (36 )     (46 )     (16 )     (5 )
Balance at end of the period
    21,188       14,395       4,863        236        108       1,586  
 
                                               
Individual impairment
    9,199       2,547       4,863       221       108       1,460  
Collective impairment
    11,989       11,848             15             126  
 
                                               
 
    21,188       14,395       4,863        236        108       1,586  
 
                                               
Gross amount of receivables individually impaired, before deducting any impairment allowance
    9,199       2,547       4,863       221       108       1,460  
 
                                               
December 31, 2015 (Audited)
                                               
Balance at beginning of the year
    15,571       8,133       4,326       548       93       2,471  
Provisions (reversals) and other adjustments
    3,043       2,920       297       (233 )     4       55  
Write-offs
    (2,693 )     (2,505 )     (172 )           (11 )     (5 )
Reclassifications
          992                         (992 )
Balance at end of the year
    15,921       9,540       4,451        315       86       1,529  
 
                                               
Individual impairment
    8,593       2,677       4,121       306       86       1,403  
Collective impairment
    7,328       6,863       330       9             126  
 
                                               
 
    15,921       9,540       4,451        315       86       1,529  
 
                                               
Gross amount of receivables individually impaired, before deducting any impairment allowance
    8,593       2,677       4,121       306       86       1,403  
 
                                               

18. Inventories and Supplies

As at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, this account consists of:

                 
    September 30,   December 31,
    2016   2015
    (Unaudited)   (Audited)
    (in million pesos)
Terminal and cellular phone units:
               
At net realizable value
    3,448       3,253  
At cost
    4,454       3,721  
Spare parts and supplies:
               
At net realizable value
    670       539  
At cost
    962       835  
Others:
               
At net realizable value
    382       822  
At cost
    763       975  
 
               
Total inventories and supplies at the lower of cost or net realizable value (Notes 4 and 5)
    4,500       4,614  
 
               

The cost of inventories and supplies recognized as expense for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015 are as follows:

                 
    September 30,
    2016   2015
    (Unaudited)
    (in million pesos)
Cost of sales
    13,334       9,312  
Write-down of inventories and supplies (Notes 4 and 5)
    919       236  
Repairs and maintenance
    462       499  
 
    14,715       10,047  
 
               

Changes in the allowance for inventory obsolescence for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and for the year ended December 31, 2015 are as follows:

                 
    September 30,   December 31,
    2016   2015
    (Unaudited)   (Audited)
    (in million pesos)
Balance at beginning of the period
    918       913  
Provisions
    919       511  
Write-off and others
    (158 )     (506 )
Balance at end of the period
    1,679        918  
 
               

19. Prepayments

As at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, this account consists of:

                 
    September 30,   December 31,
    2016   2015
    (Unaudited)   (Audited)
    (in million pesos)
Prepaid taxes (Note 7)
    8,139       5,949  
Prepaid fees and licenses
    1,089       856  
Prepaid rent (Note 3)
    516       468  
Prepaid selling and promotions
    500       881  
Prepaid benefit costs (Notes 3 and 26)
    392       306  
Prepaid repairs and maintenance
    308       126  
Prepaid insurance (Note 25)
    87       145  
Other prepayments
    580       542  
 
               
 
    11,611       9,273  
Less current portion of prepayments
    6,094       5,798  
 
               
Noncurrent portion of prepayments
    5,517       3,475  
 
               

Prepaid taxes include creditable withholding taxes and input VAT.

Prepaid benefit costs represent excess of fair value of plan assets over present value of defined benefit obligations recognized in our consolidated statements of financial position. See Note 26 – Employee Benefits.

Agreement of PLDT and Smart with TV5 Network, Inc., or TV5

In 2010, PLDT and Smart entered into advertising placement agreements with TV5, a subsidiary of MediaQuest, which is a wholly-owned investee company of PLDT Beneficial Trust Fund for the airing and telecast of advertisements and commercials of PLDT and Smart on TV5’s television network for a period of five years. The costs of telecast of each advertisement shall be applied and deducted from the placement amount only after the relevant advertisement or commercial is actually aired on TV5’s television network. In June 2014, Smart and TV5 agreed to amend the liquidation schedule under the original advertising placement agreement by extending the term of expiry from 2015 to 2021. Total prepayment under the advertising placement agreements amounted to Php447 million and Php533 million as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively. See Note 25 – Related Party Transactions.

Agreement of PLDT, Smart and DMPI with Dakila Cable TV Corp. or Dakila

In May 2015, PLDT, Smart and DMPI entered into a four-year agreement with Dakila commencing with the launch of the OTT video-on-demand service, or iflix service, in the Philippines on June 18, 2015. iflix service is provided by iFlix Sdn Bhd and Dakila is the authorized reseller of the iflix service in the Philippines. Under the agreement, PLDT, Smart and DMPI were appointed by Dakila to act as its internet service providers with an authority to resell and distribute the iflix service to their respective subscribers on a monthly and annual basis. Further, as agreed by all parties, the fees will be subject to guaranteed minimum fees of US$2 million on the first year, US$4 million on the second year, US$6 million on the third year and US$8 million on the fourth year. The guaranteed minimum fee on the fourth year is subject to certain conditions as defined in the agreement. Total prepayment related to the agreement in 2015 amounted to US$3.1 million, or Php138.2 million. Total unamortized cost under prepayment amounted to US$0.3 million, or Php16 million, and US$1.9 million, or Php87 million, as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively.

20. Equity

PLDT’s number of shares of subscribed and outstanding capital stock as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015 are as follows:

                 
    September 30,   December 31,
    2016   2015
    (Unaudited)   (Audited)
    (in millions)
Authorized
               
Non-Voting Serial Preferred Stocks
    388       388  
Voting Preferred Stock
    150       150  
Common Stock
    234       234  
Subscribed
               
Non-Voting Serial Preferred Stocks(1)
    300       300  
Voting Preferred Stock
    150       150  
Common Stock
    219       219  
Outstanding
               
Non-Voting Serial Preferred Stocks(1)
    300       300  
Voting Preferred Stock
    150       150  
Common Stock
    216       216  
Treasury Stock
               
Common Stock
    3       3  
 
               

  (1)   Includes 300 million shares of Series IV Cumulative Non-Convertible Redeemable Preferred Stock subscribed for Php3 billion, of which Php360 million has been paid.

The changes in PLDT’s capital account are the redemption of 370 shares of Series II 10% Cumulative Convertible Preferred Stock and the issuance of 870 shares or Php8,700 of Series JJ 10% Cumulative Convertible Preferred Stock for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015, respectively.

Preferred Stock

Non-Voting Serial Preferred Stocks

On January 26, 2016, the Board of Directors designated 20,000 shares of Non-Voting Serial Preferred Stock as Series KK 10% Cumulative Convertible Preferred Stock to be issued from January 1, 2016 to December 31, 2020, pursuant to the PLDT Subscriber Investment Plan, or SIP.

On November 5, 2013, the Board of Directors designated 50,000 shares of Non-Voting Serial Preferred Stock as Series JJ 10% Cumulative Convertible Preferred Stock to be issued from January 1, 2013 to December 31, 2015, pursuant to the SIP. On June 8, 2015, PLDT issued 870 shares of Series JJ 10% Cumulative Convertible Preferred Stock.

On January 26, 2010, the Board of Directors designated 100,000 shares of Non-Voting Serial Preferred Stock as Series II 10% Cumulative Convertible Preferred Stock to be issued from January 1, 2010 to December 31, 2012, pursuant to the SIP.

The Series II, JJ and KK 10% Cumulative Convertible Preferred Stock, or SIP shares, earns cumulative dividends at an annual rate of 10%. After the lapse of one year from the last day of the year of issuance of a particular Series of 10% Cumulative Convertible Preferred Stock, any holder of such series may convert all or any of the shares of 10% Cumulative Convertible Preferred Stock held by him into fully paid and non-assessable shares of Common Stock of PLDT, at a conversion price equivalent to 10% below the average of the high and low daily sales price of a share of Common Stock of PLDT on the PSE, or if there have been no such sales on the PSE on any day, the average of the bid and the ask prices of a share of Common Stock of PLDT at the end of such day on such Exchange, in each case averaged over a period of 30 consecutive trading days prior to the conversion date, but in no case shall the conversion price be less than the par value per share of Common Stock. The number of shares of Common Stock issuable at any time upon conversion of 10% Cumulative Convertible Preferred Stock is determined by dividing Php10.00 by the then applicable conversion price.

In case the shares of Common Stock outstanding are at anytime subdivided into a greater or consolidated into a lesser number of shares, then the minimum conversion price per share of Common Stock will be proportionately decreased or increased, as the case may be, and in the case of a stock dividend, such price will be proportionately decreased, provided, however, that in every case the minimum conversion price shall not be less than the par value per share of Common Stock. In the event the relevant effective date for any such subdivision or consolidation of shares of stock dividend occurs during the period of 30 trading days preceding the presentation of any shares of 10% Cumulative Convertible Preferred Stock for conversion, a similar adjustment will be made in the sales prices applicable to the trading days prior to such effective date utilized in calculating the conversion price of the shares presented for conversion.

In case of any other reclassification or change of outstanding shares of Common Stock, or in case of any consolidation or merger of PLDT with or into another corporation, the Board of Directors shall make such provisions, if any, for adjustment of the minimum conversion price and the sale price utilized in calculating the conversion price as the Board of Directors, in its sole discretion, shall deem appropriate.

At PLDT’s option, the Series II, JJ and KK 10% Cumulative Convertible Preferred Stock are redeemable at par value plus accrued dividends five years after the year of issuance.

The Series IV Cumulative Non-Convertible Redeemable Preferred Stock earns cumulative dividends at an annual rate of 13.5% based on the paid-up subscription price. It is redeemable at the option of PLDT at any time one year after subscription and at the actual amount paid for such stock, plus accrued dividends.

The Non-Voting Serial Preferred Stocks are non-voting, except as specifically provided by law, and are preferred as to liquidation.

All preferred stocks limit the ability of PLDT to pay cash dividends unless all dividends on such preferred stock for all past dividend payment periods have been paid and or declared and set apart and provision has been made for the currently payable dividends.

Voting Preferred Stock

On June 5, 2012, the Philippine SEC approved the amendments to the Seventh Article of PLDT’s Articles of Incorporation consisting of the sub-classification of its authorized Preferred Capital Stock into: 150 million shares of Voting Preferred Stock with a par value of Php1.00 each, and 807.5 million shares of Non-Voting Serial Preferred Stock with a par value of Php10.00 each, and other conforming amendments, or the Amendments. The shares of Voting Preferred Stock may be issued, owned, or transferred only to or by: (a) a citizen of the Philippines or a domestic partnership or association wholly-owned by citizens of the Philippines; (b) a corporation organized under the laws of the Philippines of which at least 60% of the capital stock entitled to vote is owned and held by citizens of the Philippines and at least 60% of the board of directors of such corporation are citizens of the Philippines; and (c) a trustee of funds for pension or other employee retirement or separation benefits, where the trustee qualifies under paragraphs (a) and
(b) above and at least 60% of the funds accrue to the benefit of citizens of the Philippines, or Qualified Owners. The holders of Voting Preferred Stock will have voting rights at any meeting of the stockholders of PLDT for the election of directors and for all other purposes, with one vote in respect of each share of Voting Preferred Stock. The Amendments were approved by the Board of Directors and stockholders of PLDT on July 5, 2011 and March 22, 2012, respectively.

On October 12, 2012, the Board of Directors, pursuant to the authority granted to it in the Seventh Article of PLDT’s Articles of Incorporation, determined the following specific rights, terms and features of the Voting Preferred Stock: (a) entitled to receive cash dividends at the rate of 6.5% per annum, payable before any dividends are paid to the holders of Common Stock; (b) in the event of dissolution or liquidation or winding up of PLDT, holders will be entitled to be paid in full, or pro-rata insofar as the assets of PLDT will permit, the par value of such shares of Voting Preferred Stock and any accrued or unpaid dividends thereon before any distribution shall be made to the holders of shares of Common Stock; (c) redeemable at the option of PLDT; (d) not convertible to Common Stock or to any shares of stock of PLDT of any class; (e) voting rights at any meeting of the stockholders of PLDT for the election of directors and all other matters to be voted upon by the stockholders in any such meetings, with one vote in respect of each Voting Preferred Share; and (f) holders will have no pre-emptive right to subscribe for or purchase any             shares of stock of any class, securities or warrants issued, sold or disposed by PLDT.

On October 16, 2012, BTFHI subscribed to 150 million newly issued shares of Voting Preferred Stock of PLDT, at a subscription price of Php1.00 per share for a total subscription price of Php150 million pursuant to a subscription agreement between BTFHI and PLDT dated October 15, 2012. As a result of the issuance of Voting Preferred Shares, the voting power of the NTT Group (NTT DOCOMO and NTT Communications), First Pacific Group and its Philippine affiliates, and JG Summit Group was reduced to 12%, 15% and 5%, respectively, as at September 30, 2016. See Note 1 – Corporate Information and
Note 27 – Provisions and Contingencies – In the Matter of the Wilson Gamboa Case and Jose M. Roy III Petition.

Redemption of Preferred Stock

On September 23, 2011, the Board of Directors approved the redemption, or the Redemption, of all outstanding shares of PLDT’s Series A to FF 10% Cumulative Convertible Preferred Stock, or the Series A to FF Shares, from holders of record as of October 10, 2011, and all such             shares were redeemed and retired effective on January 19, 2012. In accordance with the terms and conditions of the Series A to FF Shares, the holders of Series A to FF Shares as at January 19, 2012 are entitled to payment of the redemption price in an amount equal to the par value of such shares, plus accrued and unpaid dividends thereon up to January 19, 2012, or the Redemption Price of Series A to FF Shares.

PLDT has set aside Php4,029 million (the amount required to fund the redemption price for the Series A to FF Shares) in addition to Php4,143 million for unclaimed dividends on Series A to FF Shares, or a total amount of Php8,172 million, to fund the redemption of the Series A to FF Shares, or the Redemption Trust Fund, in a trust account, or the Trust Account, in the name of Rizal Commercial Banking Corporation, or RCBC, as Trustee. Pursuant to the terms of the Trust Account, the Trustee will continue to hold the Redemption Trust Fund or any balance thereof, in trust, for the benefit of Holders of Series A to FF Shares, for a period of ten years from January 19, 2012 until January 19, 2022. After the said date, any and all remaining balance in the Trust Account shall be returned to PLDT and revert to its general funds. Any interests on the Redemption Trust Fund shall accrue for the benefit of, and be paid from time to time, to PLDT.

On May 8, 2012, the Board of Directors approved the redemption of all outstanding shares of PLDT’s Series GG 10% Cumulative Convertible Preferred Stock, or the Series GG Shares, from the holders of record as of May 22, 2012, and all shall shares were redeemed and retired effective August 30, 2012. In accordance with the terms and conditions of the Series GG Shares, the holders of the Series GG Shares as at May 22, 2012 are entitled to the payment of the redemption price in an amount equal to the par value of such shares, plus accrued and unpaid dividends thereon up to August 30, 2012, or the Redemption Price of Series GG Shares.

PLDT has set aside Php236 thousand (the amount required to fund the redemption price for the Series GG Shares) in addition to Php74 thousand for unclaimed dividends on Series GG Shares, or a total amount of Php310 thousand, to fund the redemption price for the Series GG Shares, or the Redemption Trust Fund for Series GG Shares, which forms an integral part of the Redemption Trust Fund previously set aside in the trust account with RCBC, as Trustee, for the purpose of funding the payment of the Redemption Price of Series A to FF Shares. Pursuant to the terms of the Trust Account, the Trustee will continue to hold the Redemption Trust Fund for Series GG Shares or any balance thereof, in trust, for the benefit of holders of Series GG Shares, for a period of ten years from August 30, 2012, or until August 30, 2022. After the said date, any and all remaining balance in the Redemption Trust Fund for Series GG Shares shall be returned to PLDT and revert to its general funds. Any interests on the Redemption Trust Fund for Series GG Shares shall accrue for the benefit of, and be paid from time to time, to PLDT.

On January 29, 2013, the Board of Directors approved the redemption of all outstanding             shares of PLDT’s Series HH 10% Cumulative Convertible Preferred Stock which were issued in 2007, or Series HH Shares issued in 2007, from the holders of record as of February 14, 2013 and all such shares were redeemed and retired effective May 16, 2013. In accordance with the terms and conditions of Series HH Shares issued in 2007, the holders of Series HH Shares issued in 2007 as at February 14, 2013 are entitled to the payment of the redemption price in an amount equal to the par value of such shares, plus accrued and unpaid dividends thereon up to May 16, 2013, or the Redemption Price of Series HH Shares issued in 2007.

PLDT has set aside Php24 thousand (the amount required to fund the redemption price for the Series HH Shares issued in 2007) in addition to Php6 thousand for unclaimed dividends on Series HH Shares issued in 2007, or a total amount of Php30 thousand, to fund the redemption price of Series HH Shares issued in 2007, or the Redemption Trust Fund for Series HH Shares issued in 2007, which forms an integral part of the Redemption Trust Funds previously set aside in the trust account with RCBC, as Trustee, for the purpose of funding the payment of the Redemption Price of Series A to GG Shares. Pursuant to the terms of the Trust Account, the Trustee will continue to hold the Redemption Trust Fund for Series HH Shares issued in 2007 or any balance thereof, in trust, for the benefit of holders of Series HH Shares issued in 2007, for a period of ten years from May 16, 2013, or until May 16, 2023. After the said date, any and all remaining balance in the Redemption Trust Fund for Series HH Shares issued in 2007 shall be returned to PLDT and revert to its general funds. Any interests on the Redemption Trust Fund for Series HH Shares issued in 2007 shall accrue for the benefit of, and be paid from time to time, to PLDT.

On January 28, 2014, the Board of Directors approved the redemption of all outstanding             shares of PLDT’s Series HH 10% Cumulative Convertible Preferred Stock which were issued in 2008, or the Series HH Shares issued in 2008, from the holders of record as of February 14, 2014 and all such shares were redeemed and retired effective May 16, 2014. In accordance with the terms and conditions of Series HH Shares issued in 2008, the holders of Series HH Shares issued in 2008 as at February 14, 2014 are entitled to the payment of the redemption price in an amount equal to the par value of such shares, plus accrued and unpaid dividends thereon up to May 16, 2014, or the Redemption Price of Series HH Shares issued in 2008.

PLDT has set aside Php2 thousand (the amount required to fund the redemption price of Series HH Shares issued in 2008) in addition to Php1 thousand for unclaimed dividends on Series HH Shares issued in 2008, or a total amount of Php3 thousand, to fund the redemption price of Series HH Shares issued in 2008, or the Redemption Trust Fund for Series HH Shares issued in 2008, which forms an integral part of the Redemption Trust Funds previously set aside in the trust account with RCBC, as Trustee, for the purpose of funding the payment of the Redemption Price of Series A to HH Shares issued in 2007. Pursuant to the terms of the Trust Account, the Trustee will continue to hold the Redemption Trust Fund for Series HH Shares issued in 2008 or any balance thereof, in trust, for the benefit of holders of Series HH Shares issued in 2008, for a period of ten years from May 16, 2014, or until May 16, 2024. After the said date, any and all remaining balance in the Redemption Trust Fund for Series HH Shares issued in 2008 shall be returned to PLDT and revert to its general funds. Any interests on the Redemption Trust Fund for Series HH Shares issued in 2008 shall accrue for the benefit of, and be paid from time to time, to PLDT.

On January 26, 2016, the Board of Directors approved the redemption of all outstanding             shares of PLDT’s Series II 10% Cumulative Convertible Preferred Stock, or the Series II Shares, from the holder of record as of February 10, 2016, and all such shares were redeemed and retired effective on May 11, 2016. In accordance with the terms and conditions of Series II Shares, the holder of Series II Shares as at February 10, 2016 is entitled to the payment of the redemption price in an amount equal to the par value of such shares, plus accrued and unpaid dividends thereon up to May 11, 2016, or the Redemption Price of Series II Shares.

PLDT has set aside Php4 thousand to fund the redemption price of Series II Shares, or the Redemption Trust Fund for Series II Shares, which forms an integral part of the Redemption Trust Funds previously set aside in the trust account with RCBC, as Trustee, for the purpose of funding the payment of the Redemption Price of Series A to HH Shares issued in 2008. Pursuant to the terms of the Trust Account, the Trustee will continue to hold the Redemption Trust Fund for Series II Shares or any balance thereof, in trust, for the benefit of holder of Series II Shares, for a period of ten years from May 11, 2016, or until May 11, 2026. After the said date, any and all remaining balance in the Redemption Trust Fund for Series II Shares shall be returned to PLDT and revert to its general funds. Any interests on the Redemption Trust Fund for Series II Shares shall accrue for the benefit of, and be paid from time to time, to PLDT.

As at January 19, 2012, August 30, 2012, May 16, 2013, May 16, 2014 and May 11, 2016, notwithstanding that any stock certificate representing the Series A to FF Shares, Series GG Shares, Series HH Shares issued in 2007, Series HH Shares issued in 2008 and Series II Shares, respectively, were not surrendered for cancellation, the Series AA to II Shares were no longer deemed outstanding and the right of the holders of such shares to receive dividends thereon ceased to accrue and all rights with respect to such shares ceased and terminated, except only the right to receive the Redemption Price of such shares, but without interest thereon.

Total amounts of Php19 million and Php12 million were withdrawn from the Trust Account, representing total payments on redemption for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015, respectively. The balances of the Trust Account of Php7,887 million and Php7,906 million were presented as part of the “Current portion of advances and other noncurrent assets” and the related redemption liability of the same amount were presented as part of “Accrued expenses and other current liabilities” in our consolidated statements of financial position as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively. See Note 24 – Accrued Expenses and Other Current Liabilities and Note 28 – Financial Assets and Liabilities.

PLDT expects to similarly redeem and retire the outstanding shares of Series JJ and KK 10% Cumulative Convertible Preferred Stock as and when they become eligible for redemption.

Common Stock

The Board of Directors approved a share buyback program of up to five million shares of PLDT’s common stock, representing approximately 3% of PLDT’s then total outstanding shares of common stock in 2008. Under the share buyback program, PLDT reacquired shares on an opportunistic basis, directly from the open market through the trading facilities of the PSE and NYSE.

We had acquired a total of approximately 2.72 million shares of PLDT’s common stock at a weighted average price of Php2,388.00 per share for a total consideration of Php6,505 million in accordance with the share buyback program as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015.

On November 9, 2011, the PSE approved the listing of an additional 27.7 million common             shares of PLDT, which were issued on October 26, 2011 at the issue price of Php2,500.00 per share, as consideration for the acquisition by PLDT of certain assets of Digitel from JGSHI.

On January 27, 2012, a total of 1.61 million PLDT common shares were issued for settlement of the purchase price of 2,518 million common shares of Digitel tendered by the noncontrolling Digitel stockholders under the mandatory tender offer conducted by PLDT, and which opted to receive payment of the purchase price in the form of PLDT common shares.

Dividends Declared

Our dividends declared for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015 are detailed as follows:

September 30, 2016 (Unaudited)

                             
    Date   Amount
Class   Approved   Record   Payable   Per Share   Total
                (in million pesos, except per share amounts)
Cumulative Convertible Preferred Stock                        
Series II (Final Dividends)  
April 12, 2016
  February 10, 2016   May 11, 2016   0.0027/day      
Series JJ  
May 3, 2016
  June 2, 2016   June 30, 2016     1.00        
   
 
                       
   
 
                     
   
 
                       
Cumulative Non-Convertible
Redeemable Preferred Stock
 


 

 

 

 

Series IV*  
January 26, 2016
  February 24, 2016   March 15, 2016           12  
   
May 3, 2016
  May 24, 2016   June 15, 2016           12  
   
August 2, 2016
  August 18, 2016   September 15, 2016           12  
   
 
                       
   
 
                    36  
   
 
                       
Voting Preferred Stock  
February 29, 2016
  March 30, 2016   April 15, 2016           3  
   
June 14, 2016
  June 30, 2016   July 15, 2016           3  
   
August 30, 2016
  September 20, 2016   October 15, 2016           2  
   
 
                       
   
 
                    8  
Common Stock  

 
 
 
 
Regular Dividend  
February 29, 2016
  March 14, 2016   April 1, 2016     57.00       12,315  
   
August 2, 2016
  August 16, 2016   September 1, 2016     49.00       10,587  
   
 
                       
   
 
                    22,902  
Charged to retained earnings  
 
                    22,946  
   
 
                       

  *   Dividends were declared based on total amount paid up.

September 30, 2015 (Unaudited)

                                                 
        Date   Amount
Class   Approved   Record   Payable   Per Share   Total
                                (in million pesos, except per share amounts)
10% Cumulative Convertible Preferred Stock                                    
Series II
  May 5, 2015   May 19, 2015   May 30, 2015   1.00      
                                     
                                     
Cumulative Non-Convertible Redeemable Preferred Stock                                    
Series IV*
  January 27, 2015   February 26, 2015   March 15, 2015       12  
 
  May 5, 2015   May 26, 2015   June 15, 2015       12  
 
  August 4, 2015   August 20, 2015   September 15, 2015       13  
                                     
                                  37  
                                     
Voting Preferred Stock
  March 3, 2015   March 19, 2015   April 15, 2015       2  
 
  June 9, 2015   June 26, 2015   July 15, 2015       3  
 
  August 25, 2015   September 15, 2015   October 15, 2015       2  
                                  7  
                                     
Common Stock                                    
Regular Dividend
  March 3, 2015   March 17, 2015   April 16, 2015   61.00     13,179  
 
  August 4, 2015   August 27, 2015   September 25, 2015**     65.00       14,044  
Special Dividend
  March 3, 2015   March 17, 2015   April 16, 2015   26.00     5,618  
                                  32,841  
                                     
Charged to retained earnings                                 32,885  
                                     

  *   Dividends were declared based on total amount paid up.

  **   Payment was moved to September 28, 2015 in view of Proclamation No. 1128, Series of 2015, dated September 15, 2015, declaring September 25, 2015 a regular holiday.

Our dividends declared after September 30, 2016 are detailed as follows:

                         
    Date   Amount
Class   Approved   Record   Payable   Per Share   Total
                (in million pesos, except per share amounts)
Cumulative
Non-Convertible
Redeemable
Preferred Stock
 



 



 



 



 



Series IV*
  November 14, 2016   November 28, 2016   December 15, 2016       12  
 
                       

  *   Dividends were declared based on total amount paid up.

21. Interest-bearing Financial Liabilities

As at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, this account consists of the following:

                 
    September 30,   December 31,
    2016   2015
    (Unaudited)   (Audited)
    (in million pesos)
Long-term portion of interest-bearing financial liabilities:
 
 
Long-term debt (Notes 9 and 28)
    128,120       143,982  
Obligations under finance leases (Note 28)
    1        
 
               
 
    128,121       143,982  
 
               
Current portion of interest-bearing financial liabilities:
 
 
Long-term debt maturing within one year (Notes 9 and 28)
    32,761       16,910  
Obligations under finance leases maturing within one year (Note 28)
          1  
 
    32,761       16,911  
 
               

Unamortized debt discount, representing debt issuance costs and any difference between the fair value of consideration given or received at initial recognition, included in our financial liabilities amounted to Php612 million and Php676 million as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively. See Note 28 – Financial Assets and Liabilities.

The following table describes all changes to unamortized debt discount for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and for the year ended December 31, 2015.

                 
    September 30,   December 31,
    2016   2015
    (Unaudited)   (Audited)
    (in million pesos)
Unamortized debt discount at beginning of the period
    676       511  
Additions during the period
    112       396  
Accretion during the period included as part of Financing costs – net (Note 5)
    (176 )     (231 )
Unamortized debt discount at end of the period (Note 28)
     612        676  
 
               

Long-term Debt

As at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, long-term debt consists of:

                                         
        September 30, 2016   December 31, 2015
Description   Interest Rates   (Unaudited)   (Audited)
                    (in millions)                
U.S. Dollar Debts:  

 
 
 
 
 
Export Credit Agencies-Supported Loans:  

 
 
 
 
 
Exportkreditnamnden, or EKN  
1.4100% to 1.9000% and
US$ LIBOR + 0.3000% in
2016 and 1.4100% to
1.9000% and US$LIBOR +
0.3000% to 0.3500% in
2015
 




  US$ 41










  Php1,962





  US$ 62










    Php2,911





China Export and Credit Insurance
Corporation, or Sinosure
 
US$ LIBOR + 1.0000% to
1.8000% in 2016 and US$
LIBOR + 0.5500% to
1.8000% in 2015
 


 



 



  53



  2,484



EKN and AB Svensk Exportkredit, or SEK  
3.9550% in 2016 and 2015
                    32       1,528  
   
 
        41       1,962        147       6,923  
                                 
Fixed Rate Notes  
8.3500% in 2016 and 2015
        228       11,062       228       10,733  
Term Loans:  

 
 
 
 
 
GSM Network Expansion Facilities  
US$ LIBOR + 0.8500% to
1.1125% in 2016 and
2015
 

  11


  537


  36


  1,722


Others   2.8850% and US$ LIBOR + 0.7900% to
    940       45,577       1,024       48,242  
    1.6000% in 2016 and US$ LIBOR +
                               
   
0.7900% to 1.9000% in 2015
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
        1,220       59,138       1,435       67,620  
                                 
Philippine Peso Debts:  

 
 
 
 
 
Corporate Notes   5.3300% to 6.2600% in 2016 and 2015
            21,166               21,320  
Fixed Rate Retail Bonds   5.2250% to 5.2813% in 2016 and 2015
            14,897               14,883  
Term Loans:  

 
 
 
 
 
Unsecured Term Loans  
4.0000% to 5.6400%; BSP
overnight rate -
0.3500% to BSP
overnight rate and
PDST-R2 + 1.00% in 2016
and 4.4850% to 5.7895%
BSP overnight rate –
0.3500% to BSP
overnight rate in 2015
 







 







  65,680








 







  57,069








   
 
                101,743               93,272  
   
 
                                   
Total long-term debt (Note 28)  
 
                160,881               160,892  
Less portion maturing within one year (Note 28)  
 
                32,761               16,910  
   
 
                                   
Noncurrent portion of long-term (Note 28)  
 
              Php128,120           Php143,982
   
 
                                   

The scheduled maturities of our consolidated outstanding long-term debt at nominal values as at September 30, 2016 are as follows:

                                 
    U.S. Dollar Debt   Php Debt   Total
Year   U.S. Dollar   Php   Php   Php
            (in millions)        
2016(1)
    52       2,501       542       3,043  
2017
    492       23,864       8,570       32,434  
2018
    262       12,710       1,676       14,386  
2019
    110       5,331       13,859       19,190  
2020
    210       10,199       8,027       18,226  
2021 and onwards
    101       4,885       69,329       74,214  
 
                               
(Note 28)
    1,227       59,490       102,003       161,493  
 
                               

  (1)   October 1, 2016 through December 31, 2016.

In order to acquire imported components for our network infrastructure in connection with our expansion and service improvement programs, we obtained loans extended and/or guaranteed by various export credit agencies as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015:

                                                 
            Terms           Cancelled       Outstanding Amounts
    Date of Loan                                    
Loan Amount   Agreement   Lender(s)   Installments   Final Installment   Dates Drawn   Drawn Amount   Undrawn Amount   Paid in full on   September 30, 2016   December 31, 2015
                                    (Unaudited)   (Audited)
                        (in millions)       (in millions)
U.S. Dollar Debts
                                           
EKN, the Export-Credit Agency of Sweden
                                           
DMPI
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
US$18.7M(1)
  April 4, 2006   Nordea Bank AB
(publ), or Nordea
Bank
  18 equal semi-annual

  April 30, 2015

  Various dates in
2006-2007

  US$18.7


  US$–


  April 30, 2015


  US$–


  Php–


  US$–


  Php–


DMPI
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
US$59.2M(2)
  December 17, 2007   ING Bank, Societe
Generale and Calyon
  18 equal semi-annual   March 30, 2017   Various dates in
2008-2009
  59.1

  0.1

 

  3

  163

  10

  477

DMPI
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
US$51.2M(3)
  December 17, 2007   ING Bank, Societe
Generale and Calyon
  18 equal semi-annual   June 30, 2017   Various dates in
2008-2009
  51.1

  0.1

 

  6

  284

  9

  415

Smart
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
US$49M(4)
Tranche A1:
US$24M;
Tranche A2:
US$24M;
Tranche B:
  June 10, 2011

  Nordea Bank,
subsequently
assigned to SEK on
July 5, 2011

  10 equal semi-annual

  Tranche A1
and B: December 29,
2016;
Tranche A2: October
30, 2017

  Various dates in
2012 and February
21, 2013



  49.0





 





 





  10(*)





  463(*)





  14(*)





  674(*)





US$1M
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Smart
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
US$45.6M(4)
Tranche A1:
US$25M;
Tranche A2:
US$19M;
  February 22, 2013   Nordea Bank,
subsequently
assigned to SEK on
July 3, 2013
  10 equal
semi-annual,
commencing 6
months after the
applicable mean
  Tranche A1
and B1:
July 16, 2018;
Tranche A2
and B2:
  Various dates in
2013-2014



  45.6




 




 




  22(*)




  1,052(*)




  29(*)




  1,345(*)




Tranche B1:
US$0.9M;
Tranche B2:
 

 

  delivery date


  April 15, 2019


 


 


 


 


 


 


 


 


US$0.7M
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
                                               
 
                                  US$41   Php1,962   US$62   Php2,911
 
                                               

(*) Amounts are net of unamortized discount and/or debt issuance cost.
(1) The purpose of this loan is to finance the supply of GSM mobile telephone equipment and related services.

     
(2)
(3)
(4)
 
The purpose of this loan is to finance the equipment and service contracts for the Phase 7 North Luzon Expansion and Change-out Project.
The purpose of this loan is to finance the equipment and service contracts for the Phase 7 Expansion Project in Visayas and Mindanao.
The purpose of this loan is to finance the supply and services contracts for the modernization and expansion project.

15

                                                                         
                Terms                   Cancelled       Outstanding Amounts
Loan Amount   Date of Loan Agreement   Lender(s)   Installments   Final Installment   Dates Drawn   Drawn Amount   Undrawn Amount   Paid in full on   September 30, 2016   December 31, 2015
                                                    (Unaudited)   (Audited)
                                (in millions)           (in millions)        
Sinosure
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
DMPI
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
US$21M(1)
  May 24, 2007   ING Bank   14 equal semi-annual   May 24, 2015   Various dates in   US$ 20.8     US$ 0.2     May 22, 2015   US$–   Php–   US$     Php–
 
                        2008    
 
 
 
 
 
 
DMPI
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
US$12.1M(2)
  May 24, 2007   ING Bank   14 equal semi-annual   May 24, 2015   Various dates in     12.1           May 22, 2015                
 
                        2008    
 
 
 
 
 
 
DMPI
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
US$23.8M(3)
  November 10, 2008   ING Bank   14 equal semi-annual   September 1, 2016   Various dates in     23.8           March 1, 2016         3       160  
 
                        2008-2009    
 
 
 
 
 
 
DMPI
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
US$5.5M(4)
  November 10, 2008   ING Bank   14 equal semi-annual   September 1, 2016   Various dates in     5.5           March 1, 2016         1       37  
 
                        2008-2009    
 
 
 
 
 
 
DMPI
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
US$4.9M(5)
  November 10, 2008   ING Bank   14 equal semi-annual   September 1, 2016   Various dates in     4.9           March 1, 2016         1       33  
 
                        2008-2009    
 
 
 
 
 
 
DMPI
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
US$50M(6)
  December 16, 2009   China Citic Bank   14 equal semi-annual   December 17, 2017   Various dates in     48.0       2.0     June 16, 2016         14       639  
 
          Corporation Ltd.,
subsequently
assigned to ING
Bank on December 9,
2011
 



 



  2010




 




 




 




 




 




 




 




DMPI
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
US$117M(7)
  September 15, 2010   China Development   15 equal semi-annual   April 10, 2018   Various dates in     116.3       1.0     April 11, 2016         34       1,615  
 
          Bank and The Hong
Kong and Shanghai
Banking Corporation
Limited
 


 


  2011



 



 



 



 



 



 



 



 
                                                                   
 
                                                        53       2,484  
 
                                                                       
EKN and SEK, the Export Credit Agency of
                                                               
Sweden
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
DMPI
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
US$96.6M(8)
  April 28, 2009   Nordea Bank and ING   17 equal semi-annual   Tranche 1: February   Various dates in   US$ 96.6     US$     Tranche 1: August   US$–   Php–   US$ 32     Php1,528
 
          Bank       28, 2018;
Tranche 2:
    2009-2011                     30, 2016;
Tranche 2:
 

 

 

 

 
                  November 30, 2018                           May 30, 2016  
 
 
 
 
                                                                   

    (1) The purpose of this loan is to finance the equipment for the Phase 6 South Luzon Change Out and Expansion Project.

    (2) The purpose of this loan is to finance the equipment for the Phase 6 NCR Expansion Project.

    (3) The purpose of this loan is to finance the equipment and service contracts for the Phase 7 Core Expansion Project.

    (4) The purpose of this loan is to finance the equipment and service contracts for the supply of 3G network in NCR.

    (5) The purpose of this loan is to finance the equipment and service contracts for the Phase 7 Intelligent Network Expansion Project.

    (6) The purpose of this loan is to finance the equipment, software and related materials for the Phase 2 3G Expansion, transmission for the Phase 2 3G Expansion and Phase 8A NCR and South Luzon BSS Expansion Projects.

    (7) The purpose of this loan is to finance the purchase of equipment and related materials for the expansion of Phase 8A and 8B Core and IN Network Expansion; Phase 8B NCR and SLZ BSS Network Expansion Project and Phase 3 3G Network Roll-out Project. US$20 million was partially prepaid on April 10, 2013 and the remaining balance is now payable over five years in 10 semi-annual installments, with final installment on April 10, 2018.

    (8) The purpose of this loan is to finance the supply of GSM mobile telephone equipment and related services.

                                                 
            Terms           Cancelled       Outstanding Amounts
    Date of Loan                                    
Loan Amount   Agreement   Lender(s)   Installment   Final Installment   Dates Drawn   Drawn Amount   Undrawn Amount   Paid in full on   September 30, 2016   December 31, 2015
                                    (Unaudited)   (Audited)
                        (in millions)       (in millions)
Finnvera, Plc, the Finnish Export Credit
Agency

                                           
Smart
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
US$50M(1)
  October 9, 2009   FEC   10 equal semi-annual   April 7, 2015   April 7, 2010   US$50.0   US$–   April 7, 2015   US$–   Php–   US$–   Php–
 
                                               

(1) The purpose of this loan is to finance the GSM equipment and services contracts.

                                                 
Loan Amount   Issuance Date   Trustee   Terms   Repurchase   Paid in full on   Outstanding Amounts
                                September 30, 2016   December 31, 2015
            Installments   Maturity   Date   Amount       (Unaudited)   (Audited)
                        (in millions)       (in millions)
Fixed Rate Notes
                                       
PLDT
                                       
US$300M(1)   March 6, 1997   Deutsche Bank Trust
Company Americas
  Non-amortizing   March 6, 2017   Various dates in
2008-2014
  US$71.6     US$228(*)   Php11,062(*)   US$228(*)   Php10,733(*)
                                             

(*) Amounts are net of unamortized debt discount and/or debt issuance cost.
(1) This fixed rate note has a coupon rate of 8.350%. The purpose of this note is to finance service improvements and expansion programs.

                                                 
            Terms           Cancelled       Outstanding Amounts
    Date of Loan                                    
Loan Amount   Agreement   Lender(s)   Installments   Final Installment   Dates Drawn   Drawn Amount   Undrawn Amount   Paid in full on   September 30, 2016   December 31, 2015
                                    (Unaudited)   (Audited)
                        (in millions)       (in millions)
Term Loans                                            
GSM Network Expansion Facilities                                            
Smart  
 
 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
US$60M(1)   June 6, 2011   The Bank of
Tokyo-Mitsubishi
UFJ, Ltd., or Bank
of Tokyo
 
8 equal
semi-annual,
commencing on the
18th
month from signing
date
  June 6, 2016




  Various dates in
2012




  US$60





  US$–





  June 6, 2016





  US$–





  Php–





  US$7





  Php353





Smart  
 
 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
US$50M(2)   August 19, 2011   FEC  
10 equal
semi-annual,
commencing 6 months
after August 19,
2012
  August 19, 2016



  Various dates in
2012



  50




 




  August 19, 2016




 




 




  12(*)




  588(*)




Smart  
 
 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
US$50M(1)   May 29, 2012   Bank of Tokyo  
9 equal
semi-annual,
commencing on May
29, 2013
  May 29, 2017


  Various dates in
2012


  50



 



 



  11(*)



  537(*)



  17(*)



  781(*)



           
 
                                   
           
 
                      US$11   Php537   US$36   Php1,722
           
 
                                   
     
(*)
(1)
(2)
 
Amounts are net of unamortized debt discount and/or debt issuance cost.
The purpose of this loan is to finance the equipment and service contracts for the modernization and expansion project.
The purpose of this loan is to finance the supply contracts for the modernization and expansion project.
                                                                 
                            Cancelled       Outstanding Amounts
    Date of Loan                                
Loan Amount   Agreement   Lender(s)   Terms   Dates Drawn   Drawn Amount   Undrawn Amount   Paid in full on   September 30, 2016   December 31, 2015
                                    (Unaudited)   (Audited)
                    (in millions)       (in millions)
Other Term Loans(1)                                                        
PLDT                                                            
US$150M   March 7, 2012   Syndicate of Banks with the Bank of Tokyo as Facility Agent   9 equal semi-annual, commencing on the date which falls 12 months after the date of the loan agreement, with final installment on March 7, 2017   Various dates in
2012
  US$ 150     US$–     US$ 17     Php808   US$50   Php2,356
PLDT                                                            
US$25M   March 16, 2012   Citibank, N.A.   17 equal quarterly-installments, commencing 12 months from the initial drawdown date, with final installment on May 30, 2017   May 29, 2012     25       May 29, 2015                    
PLDT                                                            
US$300M   January 16, 2013   Syndicate of Banks with Bank of Tokyo as Facility Agent   9 equal semi-annual, commencing on the date which falls 12 months after the date of the loan agreement, with final installment on January 16, 2018   Various dates in
2013
    300           100       4,848     167     7,853  
Smart                                                            
US$35M   January 28, 2013   China Banking
Corporation
  10 equal semi-annual, with final installment on January 29, 2018   May 7, 2013     35           10       509     18     825  
                                                             
                                    US$ 127     Php6,165   US$235   Php11,034
                                                             

(1) The purpose of this loan is to finance capital expenditures and/or to refinance existing loan obligations which were utilized for network expansion and improvement programs.

                                             
                        Cancelled       Outstanding Amounts
    Date of Loan                                
Loan Amount   Agreement   Lender(s)   Terms   Dates Drawn   Drawn Amount   Undrawn Amount   Paid in full on   September 30, 2016   December 31, 2015
                                (Unaudited)   (Audited)
                    (in millions)       (in millions)
Smart  
 
 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
US$50M   March 25, 2013   FEC  
9 equal
semi-annual,
commencing six
months after
drawdown date, with
final installment
on March 23, 2018
  Various dates in
2013 and 2014





  US$32






  US$18






 






  US$11(*)






  Php516(*)






  US$18(*)






  Php833(*)






Smart  
 
 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
US$80M   May 31, 2013   China Banking
Corporation
 
10 equal
semi-annual,
commencing six
months after
drawdown date, with
final installment
on May 31, 2018
  September 25, 2013






  80






 






 






  32






  1,551






  40






  1,885






Smart  
 
 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
US$120M   June 20, 2013   Mizuho Bank Ltd.
and Sumitomo Mitsui
Banking Corporation
with Sumitomo as
Facility Agent
 
8 equal
semi-annual,
commencing six
months after
drawdown date, with
final installment
on June 20, 2018
  September 25, 2013






  120






 






 






  60(*)






  2,891(*)






  74(*)






  3,501(*)






Smart  
 
 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
US$100M   March 7, 2014   Bank of Tokyo  
9 equal
semi-annual,
commencing 12
months after
drawdown date, with
final installment
on March 7, 2019
  Various dates in
2014
March 2, 2015




  90
10





 






 






  55(*)






  2,669*)






  77(*)






  3,625(*)






Smart  
 
 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
US$50M   May 14, 2014   Mizuho Bank Ltd.  
9 equal
semi-annual,
commencing 11
months after
drawdown date, with
final installment
on May 14, 2019
  July 1, 2014






  50






 






 






  33(*)






  1,604(*)






  38(*)






  1,813(*)






PLDT  
 
 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
US$100M   August 5, 2014   Philippine National
Bank
 
Annual amortization
rate of 1% of the
issue price on the
first year up to
the fifth year from
the initial
drawdown date, with
final installment
on August 11, 2020
  Various dates in
2014







  100








 








 








  98








  4,751








  99








  4,665








PLDT  
 
 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
US$50M   August 29, 2014   Metropolitan Bank
and Trust Company,
or Metrobank
 
Semi-annual
amortization rate
of 1% of the issue
price on the first
year up to the
fifth year from the
initial drawdown
date and the
balance payable
upon maturity on
September 2, 2020
  September 2, 2014










  50










 










 










  49










  2,388










  50










  2,344










PLDT  
 
 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
US$200M
Tranche A:
US$150M;
Tranche B:
US$50M
  February 26, 2015   Bank of Tokyo  
Commencing 36
months after loan
date, with
semi-annual
amortization of
23.75% of the loan
amount on the first
and second
repayment dates and
seven semi-annual
amortizations of
7.5% starting on
the third repayment
date, with final
installment on
February 25, 2022
  Various dates in
2015














  200















 















 















  198(*)















  9,616(*)















  198(*)















  9,320(*)















Smart  
 
 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
US$200M   March 4, 2015   Mizuho Bank Ltd.  
9 equal semi-annual
installments
commencing on the
date which falls 12
months after the
loan date, with
final installment
on March 4, 2020
  Various dates in
2015






  200







 







 







  154(*)







  7,453(*)







  197(*)







  9,299(*)







           
 
                               
           
 
                  U$690   Php33,439   US$791   Php37,285
           
 
                               

(*) Amounts are net of unamortized debt discount and/or debt issuance cost.

                                                             
                        Cancelled       Outstanding Amounts
    Date of Loan    
Loan Amount   Agreement   Lender(s)   Terms   Dates Drawn   Drawn Amount   Undrawn Amount   Paid in full on   September 30, 2016   December 31, 2015
                                (Unaudited)   (Audited)
                    (in millions)               (in millions)        
Smart  
 
 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
US$100M   December 7, 2015   Mizuho Bank Ltd.  
13 equal
semi-annual
installments
commencing on the
date which falls 12
months after the
loan date, with
final installment
on December 7, 2022
  Various dates in
2016







  US$100








  US$–








 








  US$ 98(*)
















  Php4,771(*)








    (US$2)(2)
















    (Php77)(2)








PLDT  
 
 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
US$25M   March 22, 2016   NTT Finance
Corporation
 
Non-amortizing,
payable upon
maturity on March
30, 2023
  March 30, 2016



  25



 



 



  25(*)



  1,202(*)



 



 



           
 
                                               
           
 
                    123       5,973       (2 )     (77 )
           
 
                                               
           
 
                  US$ 940     Php45,577   US$ 1,024     Php48,242
           
 
                                               

(*) Amounts are net of unamortized debt discount and/or debt issuance cost.

(2) Amounts pertain to debt issuance cost.

                                 
                            Outstanding Amounts
    Date of Loan                        
Loan Amount   Agreement   Facility Agent   Installments   Date of Issuance/   Prepayments   September 30, 2016   December 31, 2015
                Drawdown   Amount   Date   (Unaudited)   (Audited)
                    (in millions)       (in millions)
Philippine Peso Debts                            
Fixed Rate Corporate Notes(1)                            
Smart  
 
 

 
 
 
 
 
Php5,500M
Series A:
Php1,910M;
  March 15, 2012   Metrobank  
Series A: 1% annual
amortization
starting March 19,
2013, with the
balance of 96%
payable on March
20, 2017;
  Drawn and issued on
March 19, 2012





  Php1,376






  July 19, 2013






  Php3,929(*)






  Php3,966(*)






Series B:
Php3,590M
         
Series B: 1% annual
amortization
starting March 19,
2013 with the
balance of 91%
payable on March
19, 2022
 






 






 






 






 






PLDT  
 
 

 
 
 
 
 
Php1,500M   July 25, 2012   Metrobank  
Annual amortization
rate of 1% of the
issue price on the
first year up to
the sixth year from
issue date and the
balance payable
upon maturity on
July 27, 2019
  July 27, 2012








  1,188








  July 29, 2013








  288








  291








PLDT  
 
 

 
 
 
 
 
Php8,800M
Series A:
Php4,610M;
  September 19, 2012   Metrobank  
Series A: 1% annual
amortization on the
first up to sixth
year, with the
balance payable on
September 21, 2019;
  September 21, 2012





  2,055





  June 21, 2013





  6,475





  6,543





Series B:
Php4,190M
         
Series B: 1% annual
amortization on the
first up to ninth
year, with the
balance payable on
September 21, 2022
 





 





 





 





 





PLDT  
 
 

 
 
 
 
 
Php6,200M
Series A:
7-year notes
Php3,775M;
  November 20, 2012   BDO Unibank, Inc.,
or BDO
 
Series A: Annual
amortization rate
of 1% of the issue
price on the first
year up to the
sixth year from
issue date and the
balance payable
upon maturity on
November 22, 2019
  November 22, 2012









 









 









  6,014









  6,014









Series B:
10-year notes
Php2,425M
         
Series B: Annual
amortization rate
of 1% of the issue
price on the first
year up to the
ninth year from
issue date and the
balance payable
upon maturity on
November 22, 2022
 









 









 









 









 









           
 
 
 
 
 
 
           
 
              Php16,706   Php16,814
           
 
                   

(*) Amounts are net of unamortized debt discount and/or debt issuance cost.
(1) The purpose of this loan is to finance capital expenditures and/or refinance existing loan obligations which were utilized for network expansion and improvement programs.

16

                                         
                            Outstanding Amounts
    Date of Loan                        
Loan Amount   Agreement   Facility Agent   Installments   Date of Issuance/   Prepayments   September 30, 2016   December 31, 2015
                Drawdown   Amount   Date   (Unaudited)   (Audited)
                    (in millions)       (in millions)
Smart  
 
 

 
 
 
 
 
Php1,376M
Series A:
Php742M;
  June 14, 2013   Metrobank  
Series A: Annual
amortization
equivalent to 1% of
the principal
amount starting
June 19, 2014 with
the balance of 97%
payable on March
20, 2017;
  June 19, 2013








  Php–








 








  Php1,335








  Php1,349








Series B:
Php634M
         
Series B: Annual
amortization
equivalent to 1% of
the principal
amount starting
June 19, 2014 with
the balance of 92%
payable on March
21, 2022
 








 








 








 








 








PLDT  
 
 

 
 
 
 
 
Php2,055M
Series A:
Php1,735M;
  June 14, 2013   Metrobank  
Series A: Annual
amortization rate
of 1% of the issue
price up to the
fifth year and the
balance payable
upon maturity on
September 21, 2019;
  June 21, 2013







 







 







  1,973







  1,993







Series B:
Php320M
         
Series B: Annual
amortization rate
of 1% of the issue
price up to the
eighth year and the
balance payable
upon maturity on
September 21, 2022
 







 







 







 







 







PLDT  
 
 

 
 
 
 
 
Php1,188M   July 19, 2013   Metrobank  
Annual amortization
rate of 1% of the
issue on the first
year up to the
fifth year from the
issue date and the
balance payable
upon maturity on
July 27, 2019
  July 29, 2013








 








 








  1,152








  1,164








           
 
                           
           
 
                4,460       4,506  
           
 
                           
           
 
              Php21,166   Php21,320
           
 
                           
                                 
                            Outstanding Amounts
Loan Amount   Date of Agreement   Paying Agent   Terms   Date of Issuance/   Prepayments   September 30, 2016   December 31, 2015
                Drawdown   Amount   Date   (Unaudited)   (Audited)
                    (in millions)       (in millions)
Fixed Rate Retail Bonds(1)                            
PLDT  
 
 

 
 
 
 
 
Php15,000M   January 22, 2014   Philippine
Depositary Trust
Corp.
 
Php12.4B –
non-amortizing,
payable in full
upon maturity on
February 6, 2021;
Php2.6B –
non-amortizing
payable in full on
February 6, 2024
  February 6, 2014








  Php–








 








  Php14,897*








  Php14,883*








           
 
                   

(*) Amounts are net of unamortized debt discount and/or debt issuance cost.

    (1) This fixed rate retail corporate bond is comprised of Php12.4 billion and Php2.6 billion due in 2021 and 2024 with a coupon rate of 5.225% and 5.2813%, respectively. The purpose of this loan is to finance capital expenditures and/or refinance existing loan obligations which were utilized for network expansion and improvement programs.

                                     
                        Cancelled
Loan   Date of Loan               Drawn   Undrawn       Outstanding Amounts
                                September30,
                                2016   December 31, 2015
Amount   Agreement   Lender(s)   Terms   Dates Drawn   Amount   Amount   Paid in full on   (Unaudited)   (Audited)
                    (in millions)       (in millions)
Term Loans  
 
 

 
 
 
 
 
 
Unsecured Term Loans(1)                                
PLDT  
 
 

 
 
 
 
 
 
Php2,000M   March 20, 2012   RCBC  
Annual amortization
rate of 1% on the
fifth year up to
the ninth year from
the initial
drawdown date and
the balance payable
upon maturity on
April 12, 2022
  April 12, 2012








  Php2,000








  Php–








 








  Php2,000








  Php2,000








PLDT  
 
 

 
 
 
 
 
 
Php3,000M   April 27, 2012   Land Bank
of the Philippines,
or LBP
 
Annual amortization
rate of 1% on the
first year up to
the fourth year
from drawdown date
and the balance
payable upon
maturity on July
18, 2017
  July 18, 2012








  3,000








 








 








  2,880








  2,910








PLDT  
 
 

 
 
 
 
 
 
Php2,000M   May 29, 2012   LBP  
Annual amortization
rate of 1% on the
first year up to
the fourth year
from drawdown date
and the balance
payable upon
maturity on June
27, 2017
  June 27, 2012








  2,000








 








 








  1,920








  1,940








Smart  
 
 

 
 
 
 
 
 
Php1,000M   June 7, 2012   LBP  
Annual amortization
rate of 1% of the
principal amount
commencing on the
first year of the
initial drawdown up
to the fourth year
and the balance
payable upon
maturity on August
22, 2017
  August 22, 2012










  1,000










 










 










  960










  970










DMPI  
 
 

 
 
 
 
 
 
Php1,500M   June 27, 2012   BPI, BPI Asset
Management and
Trust Group and
ALFM Peso Bond
Fund, Inc.
 
Annual amortization
rate of 1% of the
principal amount
with the balance
payable upon
maturity on June
29, 2019
  Various dates in
2012





  1,500






 






  July 1, 2015






 






 






PLDT  
 
 

 
 
 
 
 
 
Php200M   August 31, 2012   Manufacturers Life
Insurance Co.
(Phils.), Inc.
 
Payable in full
upon maturity on
October 9, 2019
  October 9, 2012


  200


 


 


  200


  200


PLDT  
 
 

 
 
 
 
 
 
Php1,000M   September 3, 2012   Union Bank of the
Philippines, or
Union Bank
 
Annual amortization
rate of 1% of the
first year up to
the sixth year from
the initial
drawdown date and
the balance payable
upon maturity on
January 13, 2020
  January 11, 2013








  1,000








 








 








  970








  980








PLDT  
 
 

 
 
 
 
 
 
Php1,000M   October 11, 2012   Philippine American
Life and General
Insurance Company,
or Philam Life
 
Payable in full
upon maturity on
December 5, 2022

  December 3, 2012



  1,000



 



 



  1,000



  1,000



Smart  
 
 

 
 
 
 
 
 
Php3,000M   December 17, 2012   LBP  
Annual amortization
rate of 1% of the
principal amount on
the first year up
to the sixth year
commencing on the
first year
anniversary of the
initial drawdown
and the balance
payable upon
maturity on
December 20, 2019
  Various dates in
2012-2013











  3,000












 












 












  2,910












  2,910












PLDT  
 
 

 
 
 
 
 
 
Php2,000M   November 13, 2013   BPI  
Annual amortization
rate of 1% on the
first year up to
the sixth year from
the initial
drawdown and the
balance payable
upon maturity on
November 22, 2020
  Various dates in
2013-2014







  2,000








 








 








  1,960








  1,960








Smart  
 
 

 
 
 
 
 
 
Php3,000M   November 25, 2013   Metrobank  
Annual amortization
rate of 10% of the
total amount drawn
for the six years
and the final
installment is
payable upon
maturity on
November 27, 2020
  November 29, 2013








  3,000








 








 








  2,392(*)








  2,391(*)








           
 
                       
           
 
                  Php17,192   Php17,261
           
 
                       

(*) Amounts are net of unamortized debt discount and/or debt issuance cost.

    (1) The purpose of this loan is to finance the capital expenditures and/or refinance existing loan obligations, which were utilized for service improvements and expansion programs.

                                     
                        Cancelled
                        Undrawn
                        Amount       Outstanding Amounts
                                September 30,    
Loan   Date of Loan               Drawn           2016   December 31, 2015
Amount   Agreement   Lender(s)   Terms   Dates Drawn   Amount       Paid in full on   (Unaudited)   (Audited)
                    (in millions)       (in millions)
Smart  
 
 

 
 
 
 
 
 
Php3,000M   December 3, 2013   BPI  
Annual amortization rate of 1%
of the total amount drawn for
the first six years and the
final installment is payable
upon maturity on December 10,
2020
  December 10, 2013





  Php3,000





  Php–





 





  Php2,931(*)





  Php2,929(*)





Smart  
 
 

 
 
 
 
 
 
Php3,000M   January 29, 2014   LBP  
Annual amortization rate of 1%
of the principal amount on the
first year up to the sixth year
commencing on the first year
anniversary of the initial
drawdown and the balance
payable upon maturity on
February 5, 2021
  February 5, 2014







  3,000







 







 







  2,930(*)







  2,959







Smart  
 
 

 
 
 
 
 
 
Php500M   February 3, 2014   LBP  
Annual amortization rate of 1%
of the principal amount on the
first year up to the sixth year
commencing on the first year
anniversary of the initial
drawdown and the balance
payable upon maturity on
February 5, 2021
  February 7, 2014







  500







 







 







  490







  495







Smart  
 
 

 
 
 
 
 
 
Php2,000M   March 26, 2014   Union Bank  
Annual amortization rate of 1%
of the principal amount on the
first year up to the sixth year
commencing on the first year
anniversary of the initial
drawdown and the balance
payable upon maturity on March
29, 2021
  March 28, 2014







  2,000







 







 







  1,960







  1,980







PLDT  
 
 

 
 
 
 
 
 
Php1,500M   April 2, 2014   Philam Life  
Payable in full upon maturity on
April 4, 2024
  April 4, 2014

  1,500

 

 

  1,500

  1,500

Smart  
 
 

 
 
 
 
 
 
Php500M   April 2, 2014   BDO  
Annual amortization rate of 1%
of the principal amount on the
first year up to the sixth year
commencing on the first year
anniversary of the initial
drawdown and the balance
payable upon maturity on April
2, 2021
  April 4, 2014







  500







 







 







  490







  495







PLDT  
 
 

 
 
 
 
 
 
Php1,000M   May 23, 2014   Philam Life  
Payable in full upon maturity on
May 28, 2024
  May 28, 2014

  1,000

 

 

  1,000

  1,000

PLDT  
 
 

 
 
 
 
 
 
Php1,000M   June 9, 2014   LBP  
Annual amortization rate of 1%
on the first year up to the
ninth year from initial
drawdown date and the balance
payable upon maturity on June
13, 2024
  June 13, 2014





  1,000





 





 





  980





  990





PLDT  
 
 

 
 
 
 
 
 
Php1,500M   July 28, 2014   Union Bank  
Annual amortization rate of 1%
on the first year up to the
ninth year from initial
drawdown date and the balance
payable upon maturity on July
31, 2024
  July 31, 2014





  1,500





 





 





  1,470





  1,485





PLDT  
 
 

 
 
 
 
 
 
Php2,000M   February 25, 2015   BPI  
Annual amortization rate of 1%
on the first year up to the
ninth year from initial
drawdown date and the balance
payable upon maturity on March
24, 2025
  March 24, 2015





  2,000





 





 





  1,980





  2,000





PLDT  
 
 

 
 
 
 
 
 
Php3,000M   June 26, 2015   BPI  
Annual amortization rate of 1%
on the first year up to the
ninth year from initial
drawdown date and the balance
payable upon maturity on June
30, 2025
  June 30, 2015





  3,000





 





 





  2,970





  3,000





PLDT  
 
 

 
 
 
 
 
 
Php5,000M   August 3, 2015   Metrobank  
Annual amortization rate of 1%
on the first year up to the
ninth year from initial
drawdown date and the balance
payable upon maturity on
September 23, 2025
  Various dates in
2015




  5,000





 





 





  4,950





  5,000





           
 
                  Php23,651   Php23,833
           
 
                       

(*) Amounts are net of unamortized debt discount and/or debt issuance cost.

17

                                             
                        Cancelled
                        Undrawn
                        Amount       Outstanding Amounts
Loan   Date of Loan               Drawn           September 30,    
Amount   Agreement               Amount           2016   December 31, 2015
        Lender(s)   Terms   Dates Drawn           Paid in full on   (Unaudited)   (Audited)
                    (in millions)       (in millions)        
Smart  
 
 

 
 
 
 
 
 
Php5,000M   August 11, 2015   Metrobank  
Annual amortization rate of 1% of
the principal amount on the first
year up to the ninth year commencing
on the first year anniversary of the
initial drawdown date and the
balance payable upon maturity on
September 1, 2025
  September 1, 2015






  Php5,000






  Php–






 






  Php4,927(*)






  Php4,975(*)






Smart  
 
 

 
 
 
 
 
 
Php5,000M   December 11, 2015   BPI  
Annual amortization rate of 1% of
the principal amount on the first
year up to
the ninth year commencing on the
first year anniversary of the
initial drawdown date and the
balance payable upon maturity on
December 21, 2025
  December 21, 2015







  5,000







 







 







  4,977(*)







  5,000







Smart  
 
 

 
 
 
 
 
 
Php5,000M   December 16, 2015   Metrobank  
Annual amortization rate of 1% of
the principal amount up to the tenth
year commencing on the first year
anniversary of the initial drawdown
and the balance payable upon
maturity on June 29, 2026
  December 28, 2015





  5,000





 





 





  4,977(*)





  5,000





Smart  
 
 

 
 
 
 
 
 
Php7,000M   December 18, 2015   China Banking
Corporation
 
Annual amortization rate of 1% of
the principal amount on the third
year up to the sixth year from the
initial drawdown date, with balance
payable upon maturity on December
28, 2022
  December 28, 2015
and
February 24,
2016


  7,000





 





 





  6,971(*)





  1,000





PLDT  
 
 

 
 
 
 
 
 
Php3,000M   July 1, 2016   Metrobank  
Annual amortization rate of 1% on
the first year up to the ninth year
from initial drawdown date and the
balance payable upon maturity
 



 



 



 



 



 



PLDT  
 
 

 
 
 
 
 
 
Php6,000M   July 1, 2016   Metrobank  
Annual amortization rate of 1% on the
first year up to the sixth year from
initial drawdown date and the
balance payable upon maturity on
August 30, 2023
  August 30,
2016 and November
10, 2016


  6,000




 




 




  2,985(*)




 




PLDT  
 
 

 
 
 
 
 
 
Php8,000M   July 14, 2016   Security Bank  
Semi-annual amortization rate of 1%
of the total amount drawn starting
from the end of the first year after
the initial drawdown date until the
ninth year and the balance payable
on maturity
 





 





 





 





 





 





PLDT  
 
 

 
 
 
 
 
 
Php6,500M   September 20, 2016   BPI  
Annual amortization rate of 1% on the
first year up to the sixth year from
initial drawdown date and the
balance payable upon maturity on
November 2, 2023
  November 2,
2016



  3,500




 




 




 




 




Smart  
 
 

 
 
 
 
 
 
Php3,000M   September 28, 2016   BDO  
Annual amortization rate of 1% of
the principal amount on the first
year up to the ninth year commencing
on the first year anniversary of the
initial drawdown date and the
balance payable upon maturity on
October 5, 2026
  October 5,
2016





  3,000






 






 






 






 






Smart  
 
 

 
 
 
 
 
 
Php5,400M   September 28, 2016   UBP  
Annual amortization rate of 1% of
the principal amount on the first
year up to the sixth year commencing
on the first year anniversary of the
initial drawdown date and the
balance payable upon maturity on
October 24, 2023
  October 24,
2016





  2,400






 






 






 






 






PLDT  
 
 

 
 
 
 
 
 
Php5,300M   October 14, 2016   BPI  
Annual amortization rate of 1% on the
first year up to the sixth year from
initial drawdown date and the
balance payable upon maturity
 



 



 



 



 



 



Smart  
 
 

 
 
 
 
 
 
Php2,500M   October 27, 2016   China Banking
Corporation
 
Annual amortization rate of 10% of
the
amount drawn starting on the third
year up to the sixth year, with
balance payable upon maturity
 




 




 




 




 




 




Smart  
 
 

 
 
 
 
 
 
Php4,000M   October 28, 2016   Security Bank  
Semi-annual amortization rate of 1%
of the total amount drawn from first
year up to the ninth year and
balance payable upon maturity
 



 



 



 



 



 



           
 
                               
           
 
                    24,837       15,975  
           
 
                               
           
 
                  Php65,680   Php57,069
           
 
                               

(*) Amounts are net of unamortized debt discount and/or debt issuance cost.

Compliance with Debt Covenants

PLDT’s debt instruments contain restrictive covenants, including covenants that require us to comply with specified financial ratios and other financial tests such as total debt to EBITDA and interest cover ratio, at relevant measurement dates, principally at the end of each quarterly period. We have complied with all of our maintenance financial ratios as required under our loan covenants and other debt instruments.

The principal factors that could negatively affect our ability to comply with these financial ratio covenants and other financial tests are depreciation of the Philippine peso relative to the U.S. dollar, poor operating performance of PLDT and its subsidiaries, impairment or similar charges in respect of investments or other long-lived assets that may be recognized by PLDT and its subsidiaries, and increases in our interest expense. Interest expense may increase as a result of various factors including issuance of new debt, the refinancing of lower cost indebtedness by higher cost indebtedness, depreciation of the Philippine peso, the lowering of PLDT’s credit ratings or the credit ratings of the Philippines, increase in reference interest rates, and general market conditions. Since approximately 37% and 42% of PLDT’s total consolidated debts as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively, were denominated in foreign currencies, principally in U.S. dollars, many of these financial ratios and other tests are negatively affected by any weakening of the Philippine peso. See Note 28 – Financial Assets and Liabilities – Foreign Currency Exchange Risk.

PLDT’s debt instruments contain a number of other negative covenants that, subject to certain exceptions and qualifications, restrict PLDT’s ability to take certain actions without lenders’ approval, including:
(a) making or permitting any material change in the character of its business; (b) selling, leasing, transferring or disposing of all or substantially all of its assets or any significant portion thereof other than in the ordinary course of business; (c) creating any lien or security interest; (d) permitting set-off against amounts owed to PLDT; and (e) merging or consolidating with any other company.

Furthermore, certain of DMPI’s debt instruments contain provisions wherein DMPI may be declared in default in case of a change in control in DMPI.

PLDT’s debt instruments and guarantees for DMPI loans also contain customary and other default provisions that permit the lender to accelerate amounts due or terminate their commitments to extend additional funds under the debt instruments. These default provisions include: (a) cross-defaults that will be triggered only if the principal amount of the defaulted indebtedness exceeds a threshold amount specified in these debt instruments; (b) failure by PLDT to meet certain financial ratio covenants referred to above; (c) the occurrence of any material adverse change in circumstances that a lender reasonably believes materially impairs PLDT’s ability to perform its obligations under its debt instrument with the lender; (d) the revocation, termination or amendment of any of the permits or franchises of PLDT in any manner unacceptable to the lender; (e) the nationalization or sustained discontinuance of all or a substantial portion of PLDT’s business; and (f) other typical events of default, including the commencement of bankruptcy, insolvency, liquidation or winding up proceedings by PLDT.

Smart’s debt instruments contain certain restrictive covenants that require Smart to comply with specified financial ratios and other financial tests at semi-annual measurement dates. Smart’s loan agreements include compliance with financial tests such as Smart consolidated debt to consolidated EBITDA and debt service coverage ratio. The agreements also contain customary and other default provisions that permit the lender to accelerate amounts due under the loans or terminate their commitments to extend additional funds under the loans. These default provisions include: (a) cross-defaults and cross-accelerations that permit a lender to declare a default if Smart is in default under another loan agreement. These cross-default provisions are triggered upon a payment or other default permitting the acceleration of Smart debt, whether or not the defaulted debt is accelerated; (b) failure by Smart to comply with certain financial ratio covenants; and (c) the occurrence of any material adverse change in circumstances that the lender reasonably believes materially impairs Smart’s ability to perform its obligations or impair the guarantors’ ability to perform their obligations under its loan agreements.

DMPI’s liabilities are guaranteed up to a certain extent by Digitel and PLDT. In addition, the loan agreements contain covenants which, among others, restrict the incurrence of loans or debts not in the ordinary course of business, merger or disposition of any substantial portion of Digitel and DMPI’s assets, distribution of capital or profits, redemption of any of its issued shares, and reduction of Digitel and DMPI’s registered and paid-up capital.

The loan agreements with suppliers, banks (foreign and local alike) and other financial institutions provide for certain restrictions and requirements with respect to, among others, maintenance of percentage of ownership of specific shareholders, incurrence of additional long-term indebtedness or guarantees and creation of property encumbrances.

As at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, we were in compliance with all of our debt covenants. See Note 28 – Financial Assets and Liabilities – Derivative Financial Instruments.

Obligations under Finance Leases

The consolidated future minimum payments for finance leases and long-term portion of obligations under finance leases covering various office equipment and vehicles in the aggregate amounts of Php1 million each as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015. See Note 2 – Summary of Significant Accounting Policies, Note 3 – Management’s Use of Accounting Estimates, Judgments and Assumptions – Leases, Note 9 – Property and Equipment, and Note 28 – Financial Assets and Liabilities.

Under the terms of certain loan agreements and other debt instruments, PLDT may not create, incur, assume, permit or suffer to exist any mortgage, pledge, lien or other encumbrance or security interest over the whole or any part of its assets or revenues or suffer to exist any obligation as lessee for the rental or hire of real or personal property in connection with any sale and leaseback transaction.

22. Deferred Credits and Other Noncurrent Liabilities

As at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, this account consists of:

                 
    September 30,   December 31,
    2016   2015
    (Unaudited)   (Audited)
    (in million pesos)
Accrual of capital expenditures under long-term financing
    14,965       19,743  
Provision for asset retirement obligations (Notes 3 and 9)
    1,467       1,437  
Unearned revenues
    263       245  
Others
    478       57  
 
               
 
    17,173       21,482  
 
               

Accrual of capital expenditures under long-term financing represent expenditures related to the expansion and upgrade of our network facilities which are not due to be settled within one year. Such accruals are settled through refinancing from long-term loans obtained from the banks.

The following table summarizes all changes to asset retirement obligations for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and for the year ended December 31, 2015:

                 
    September 30,   December 31,
    2016   2015
    (Unaudited)   (Audited)
    (in million pesos)
Provision for asset retirement obligations at beginning of the period
    1,437       2,068  
Additional liability recognized during the period
    (10 )     (88 )
Accretion expenses
    (28 )     (3 )
Settlement of obligations and others
    68       (540 )
 
               
Provision for asset retirement obligations at end of the period (Note 3)
    1,467       1,437  
 
               

23. Accounts Payable

As at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, this account consists of:

                 
    September 30,   December 31,
    2016   2015
    (Unaudited)   (Audited)
    (in million pesos)
Suppliers and contractors (Note 28)
    42,343       46,487  
Carriers and other customers (Note 28)
    2,630       3,014  
Taxes (Note 27)
    1,591       1,134  
Related parties (Notes 25 and 28)
    442       507  
Others
    1,489       1,537  
 
               
 
    48,495       52,679  
 
               

Accounts payable are non-interest-bearing and are normally settled within 180 days.

For terms and conditions pertaining to related parties, see Note 25 – Related Party Transactions.

For explanation on the PLDT Group’s liquidity risk management processes, see Note 28 – Financial Assets and Liabilities – Liquidity Risk.

24. Accrued Expenses and Other Current Liabilities

As at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, this account consists of:

                 
    September 30,   December 31,
    2016   2015
    (Unaudited)   (Audited)
    (in million pesos)
Accrued utilities and related expenses (Notes 25 and 28)
    48,985       46,256  
Accrued taxes and related expenses (Note 27)
    9,800       9,561  
Liability from redemption of preferred shares (Notes 20 and 28)
    7,887       7,906  
Unearned revenues (Note 22)
    7,189       7,456  
Accrued employee benefits (Notes 2, 3, 25, 26 and 28)
    7,142       6,290  
Accrued interests and other related costs (Notes 21 and 28)
    918       1,284  
Others (Note 10)
    17,747       5,533  
 
               
 
    99,668       84,286  
 
               

Accrued utilities and related expenses pertain to costs incurred for electricity and water consumption, repairs and maintenance, selling and promotions, professional and other contracted services, rent, insurance and security services.

Accrued taxes and related expenses pertain to licenses, permits and other related business taxes, which are normally settled within a year.

Unearned revenues represent advance payments for leased lines, installation fees, monthly service fees and unused and/or unexpired portion of prepaid loads.

Other accrued expenses and other current liabilities are non-interest-bearing and are normally settled within a year. This pertains to other costs incurred for operations-related expenses pending receipt of invoice and statement of accounts from suppliers. The account also includes unpaid portion of PLDT’s investment in VTI, Bow Arken and Brightshare. See Note 10 – Investments in Associates and Joint Ventures – Investment of PLDT in VTI, Bow Arken and Brightshare.

25. Related Party Transactions

Parties are considered to be related if one party has the ability, directly and indirectly, to control the other party or exercise significant influence over the other party in making financial and operating decisions. Parties are also considered to be related if they are subject to common control.  Related parties may be individuals or corporate entities. Transactions with related parties are on an arm’s length basis, similar to transactions with third parties.

Settlement of outstanding balances of related party transactions at year-end occurs in cash. The PLDT Group has not recorded any impairment of receivables relating to amounts owed by related parties as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015. This assessment is undertaken each financial year through examining the financial position of the related party and the market in which the related party operates.

The following table provides the summary of outstanding balances as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015 transactions that have been entered into with related parties:

                                             
                        September 30,           December 31,
                        2016           2015
        Classifications   Terms   Conditions   (Unaudited)           (Audited)
                        (in million pesos)
Indirect investment in
  joint ventures through   PCEV:
Meralco  
Accrued expenses
  Electricity charges   Unsecured     339               472  
       
and other current
  – immediately upon                            
       
liabilities (Note
  receipt of invoice                            
       
24)
                                   
       
 
  Pole rental – 45                            
       
 
  days upon receipt                            
       
 
  of invoice   Unsecured     1       4       4  
Meralco Industrial  
Accrued expenses
  Outside and inside                            
Engineering Services  
and other current
  plant – 20 days                            
Corporation, or  
liabilities (Note
  upon receipt of                            
MIESCOR  
24)
  invoice   Unsecured                   6  
Indirect investment in
  associate through ACeS   Philippines:
       
Accounts payable and accrued expenses and other current liabilities
  30 days upon                            
AIL  
(Notes 23 and 24)
  receipt of invoice   Unsecured                   4  
Transactions with major
  stockholders, directors   and officers:
NTT Finance  
Interest-bearing
  Non-amortizing,   Unsecured     1,212                
Corporation  
financial
  payable upon                            
       
liabilities (Note
  maturity on March                            
       
21)
    30, 2023                              
       
Trade and other
  Asia Link B.V., or  
receivables
  15 days from end of                
ALBV  
(Note 17)
  quarter   Unsecured     6                
       
Accounts payable
                      46       46  
       
(Note 23)
                                   
       
Accrued expenses
  1st                            
       
and other current
  month of each                            
NTT World Engineering  
liabilities (Note
  quarter;                            
Marine Corporation  
24)
  non-interest-bearing   Unsecured     29               50  
NTT Communications  
Accrued expenses
  30 days upon   Unsecured     39               12  
       
and other current
  receipt of invoice;                            
       
liabilities (Note
  non-interest-bearing                            
       
24)
                                   
NTT Worldwide  
Accrued expenses
  30 days upon   Unsecured     2               3  
Telecommunications  
and other current
  receipt of invoice;                            
Corporation  
liabilities (Note
  non-interest-bearing                            
       
24)
                                   
       
 
                                   
JGSHI and Subsidiaries  
Accounts payable
  Immediately upon   Unsecured     4               4  
       
and accrued
  receipt of invoice                            
       
expenses and other current liabilities (Notes 23 and 24)
                                   
NTT DOCOMO  
Accrued expenses
  30 days upon   Unsecured     30               5  
       
and other current
  receipt of invoice;                            
       
liabilities (Note
  non-interest-bearing                            
       
24)
                                   
       
Accrued expenses and other current
  Malayan Insurance  
liabilities (Note
  Immediately upon                
Co., Inc., or Malayan  
24)
  receipt of invoice   Unsecured     13               5  
Others:
       
Trade and other receivables
  30 days upon   Unsecured;                        
Various  
(Note 17)
  receipt of invoice   no impairment     3,856               1,588  
       
Advances and other noncurrent assets –
  Due on 2018 to                            
       
net of current
    2020;     Unsecured;                        
       
portion
  non-interest-bearing   no impairment     6,514                
       
 
                                   

The following table provides the summary of transactions that have been entered into with related parties for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015 in relation with the table above.

                         
            September 30,
            2016   2015
    Classifications   (Unaudited)
            (in million pesos)
Indirect investment in joint ventures through PCEV:
                       
Meralco
  Repairs and maintenance     1,864       2,049  
 
  Rent     273       239  
MIESCOR
  Repairs and maintenance     111       136  
 
  Construction-in-progress     55       72  
Republic Surety and Insurance Co., Inc., or RSIC
  Insurance and security services     1       1  
Indirect investment in associate through ACeS Philippines:
                       
AIL
  Cost of sales (Note 5)           13  
Transactions with major stockholders, directors and officers:
                       
JGSHI and Subsidiaries
  Rent     94       97  
 
  Repairs and maintenance     8       18  
 
  Communication, training and travel     2       1  
ALBV
  Professional and other contracted services     138       154  
Malayan
  Insurance and security services     183       186  
Gotuaco del Rosario and Associates, or Gotuaco
  Insurance and security services     114        
NTT DOCOMO
  Professional and other contracted services     68       63  
NTT World Engineering Marine Corporation
  Repairs and maintenance     12       50  
NTT Worldwide Telecommunications Corporation
  Selling and promotions     7       11  
NTT Finance Corporation
  Financing costs     12        
NTT Communications
  Professional and other contracted services     56       62  
 
  Rent     6       6  
Others:
                       
Various
  Revenues     620       607  
 
                       

  a.   Agreements between PLDT and certain subsidiaries with Meralco

In the ordinary course of business, Meralco provides electricity to PLDT and certain subsidiaries’ offices within its franchise area. Total electricity costs, which were presented as part of repairs and maintenance in our consolidated income statements, amounted to Php1,864 million and Php2,049 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015, respectively. Under these agreements, the outstanding obligations, which were presented as part of accrued expenses and other current liabilities in our consolidated statements of financial position, amounted to Php339 million and Php472 million as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively.

In 2009, PLDT and Smart renewed their respective Pole Attachment Contracts with Meralco, wherein Meralco leases its pole spaces to accommodate PLDT’s and Smart’s cable network facilities. Total fees under these contracts, which were presented as part of rent in our consolidated income statements, amounted to Php273 million and Php239 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015, respectively. Under these agreements, the outstanding obligations, which were presented as part of accrued expenses and other current liabilities in our consolidated statements of financial position, amounted to Php1 million and Php4 million as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively.

See also Note 10 – Investments in Associates and Joint Ventures – Investment in Beacon – Beacon’s Acquisition of Additional Meralco Shares for additional transactions involving Meralco.

  b.   Agreements between PLDT and MIESCOR

PLDT has an existing Outside and Inside Plant Contracted Services Agreement with MIESCOR, a subsidiary of Meralco, which will expire on February 28, 2018. Under the agreement, MIESCOR assumes full and overall responsibility for the implementation and completion of any assigned project such as cable and civil works that are required for the provisioning and restoration of lines and recovery of existing plant.

Total fees under this agreement, which were presented as part of repairs and maintenance in our consolidated income statements, amounted to Php20 million and Php37 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015, respectively. Total amounts capitalized to property and equipment amounted to Php3 million and Php2 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015, respectively. Under these agreements, the outstanding obligations, which were presented as part of accrued expenses and other current liabilities in our consolidated statements of financial position, amounted to Php25 thousand and Php6 million as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively.

PLDT also has an existing One Area One Partner for Outside Plant Subscriber Line Rehabilitation, Repair, Installation and Related Activities agreement with MIESCOR, from January 1, 2011 and extended until March 31, 2017. Under the agreement, MIESCOR is responsible for the customer line installation, repair, rehabilitation and maintenance activities of cables and cabinets in the areas awarded to them.

Total fees under this agreement, which were presented as part of repairs and maintenance in our consolidated income statements, amounted to Php91 million and Php99 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015, respectively. Total amounts capitalized to property and equipment amounted to Php52 million and Php70 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015, respectively. There were no outstanding obligations under this agreement as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015.

  c.   Transactions with Republic Surety and Insurance Co., Inc., or RSIC

Since 2012, PLDT has insurance policies with RSIC, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Meralco, covering material damages for buildings, building improvements and equipment. Total fees under the related contracts, which were presented as part of insurance and security services in our consolidated income statements, amounted to Php1 million each for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015. There were no outstanding obligations for these contracts as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015.

  d.   Air Time Purchase Agreement between PLDT, AIL and Related Agreements

Under the Founder NSP Air Time Purchase Agreement, or ATPA, entered into with AIL in March 1997, which was amended in December 1998, or Original ATPA, PLDT was granted the exclusive right to sell AIL services, through ACeS Philippines, as national service provider, or NSP, in the Philippines. In exchange, the Original ATPA required PLDT to purchase from AIL a minimum of US$5 million worth of air time, or Minimum Air Time Purchase Obligation, annually for ten years commencing on January 1, 2002, or the Minimum Purchase Period, the expected date of commercial operations of the Garuda I Satellite. In the event that AIL’s aggregate billed revenue was less than US$45 million in any given year, the Original ATPA also required PLDT to make supplemental air time purchase payments of up to US$15 million per year during the Minimum Purchase Period, or the Supplemental Air Time Purchase Obligation.

On February 1, 2007, the parties to the Original ATPA entered into an amendment to the Original ATPA on substantially the terms attached to the term sheet negotiated with the relevant banks, or Amended ATPA. Under the Amended ATPA, the Minimum Air Time Purchase Obligation was amended and replaced in its entirety with the obligation of PLDT to purchase from AIL a minimum of US$500 thousand worth of air time annually over a period ending upon the earlier of: (i) the expiration of the Minimum Purchase Period; and (ii) the date on which all indebtedness incurred by AIL to finance the AIL System is repaid. Furthermore, the Amended ATPA unconditionally released PLDT from any obligations arising out of or in connection with the Original ATPA prior to the date of the Amended ATPA, except for obligations to pay for billable units used prior to such date.

In December 2014, AIL suffered a failure of the propulsion system on board the Garuda I Satellite, thus, AIL decided to decommission the operation of Garuda I Satellite in January 2015.

Subsequently, AIL and Inmarsat entered into a 12-month transitional period, wherein AIL shall continue to utilize Inmarsat system through I4F1 Satellite. On December 31, 2015, end of the transition period, AIL then terminated all satellite phone service subscriptions with Inmarsat.

Total fees under the Amended ATPA, which were presented as part of cost of sales in our consolidated income statements, amounted to nil and Php13 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015, respectively. See Note 5 – Income and Expenses – Cost of Sales. Under the Amended ATPA, the outstanding obligations of PLDT, which were presented as part of accounts payable and accrued expenses and other current liabilities in our consolidated statements of financial position, amounted to nil and Php4 million as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively.

  e.   Transactions with Major Stockholders, Directors and Officers

Material transactions to which PLDT or any of its subsidiaries is a party, in which a director, key officer or owner of more than 10% of the outstanding common stock of PLDT, or any member of the immediate family of a director, key officer or owner of more than 10% of the outstanding common stock of PLDT, had a direct or indirect material interest as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015 and for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015 are as follows:

1. Agreement between Smart and ALBV

Smart has an existing Technical Assistance Agreement with ALBV, a subsidiary of the First Pacific Group and its Philippine affiliates. ALBV provides technical support services and assistance in the operations and maintenance of Smart’s cellular business which provides for payment of technical service fees equivalent to a rate of 0.5% of the consolidated net revenues of Smart. Effective February 1, 2014, the parties agreed to reduce the technical service fee rate from 0.5% to 0.4% of the consolidated net revenues of Smart. The agreement, which expired on February 23, 2016 was renewed until February 23, 2018 and is subject to further renewal upon mutual agreement of the parties. Total service fees charged to operations under this agreement, which were presented as part of professional and other contracted services in our consolidated income statements, amounted to Php138 million and Php154 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015, respectively. Under this agreement, the outstanding advances, which were presented as part of trade and other receivables in our consolidated statements of financial position, amounted to Php6 million as at September 30, 2016, while the outstanding obligation amounted to Php46 million as at December 31, 2015.

2. Various Agreements with NTT Communications and/or its Affiliates

PLDT is a party to the following agreements with NTT Communications and/or its affiliates:

Service Agreement. On February 1, 2008, PLDT entered into an agreement with NTT World Engineering Marine Corporation wherein the latter provides offshore submarine cable repair and other allied services for the maintenance of PLDT’s domestic fiber optic network submerged plant. The fees under this agreement, which were presented as part of repairs and maintenance in our consolidated income statements, amounted to Php12 million and Php50 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015, respectively. Under this agreement, the outstanding obligations of PLDT, which were presented as part of accrued expenses and other current liabilities in our consolidated statements of financial position, amounted to Php29 million and Php50 million as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively;

Advisory Services Agreement. On March 24, 2000, PLDT entered into an agreement with NTT Communications, as amended on March 31, 2003, March 31, 2005 and June 16, 2006, under which NTT Communications provides PLDT with technical, marketing and other consulting services for various business areas of PLDT starting April 1, 2000. The fees under this agreement, which were presented as part of professional and other contracted services in our consolidated income statements, amounted to Php56 million and Php62 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015, respectively. Under this agreement, the outstanding obligations of PLDT, which were presented as part of accrued expenses and other current liabilities in our consolidated statements of financial position, amounted to Php37 million and Php10 million as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively;

Conventional International Telecommunications Services Agreement. On March 24, 2000, PLDT entered into an agreement with NTT Communications under which PLDT and NTT Communications agreed to cooperative arrangements for conventional international telecommunications services to enhance their respective international businesses. The fees under this agreement, which were presented as part of rent in our consolidated income statements, amounted to Php6 million each for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015. Under this agreement, the outstanding obligations of PLDT, which were presented as part of accrued expenses and other current liabilities in our consolidated statements of financial position, amounted to Php2 million each as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015; and

Arcstar Licensing Agreement and Arcstar Service Provider Agreement. On March 24, 2000, PLDT entered into an agreement with NTT Worldwide Telecommunications Corporation under which PLDT markets, and manages data and other services under NTT Communications’ “Arcstar” brand to its corporate customers in the Philippines. PLDT also entered into a Trade Name and Trademark Agreement with NTT Communications under which PLDT has been given the right to use the trade name “Arcstar” and its related trademark, logo and symbols, solely for the purpose of PLDT’s marketing, promotional and sales activities for the Arcstar services within the Philippines. The fees under this agreement, which were presented as part of selling and promotions in our consolidated income statements, amounted to Php7 million and Php11 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015, respectively. Under this agreement, the outstanding obligations of PLDT, which were presented as part of accrued expenses and other current liabilities in our consolidated statements of financial position, amounted to Php2 million and Php3 million as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively.

3. Transactions with JGSHI and Subsidiaries

PLDT and certain of its subsidiaries have existing agreements with Universal Robina Corporation and Robinsons Land Corporation for office and business office rental. Total fees under these contracts, which were presented as part of rent in our consolidated income statements, amounted to Php94 million and Php97 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015, respectively. Under these agreements, the outstanding obligations, which were presented as part of accounts payable and accrued expenses and other current liabilities in our consolidated statements of financial position, amounted to Php2 million each as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015.

There were also other transactions such as airfare, electricity, marketing expenses and bank fees, which were presented as part of selling and promotions, communication, training and travel, repairs and maintenance and professional and other contracted services, in our consolidated income statements, amounted to Php10 million and Php19 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015, respectively. Under these agreements, the outstanding obligations for these transactions, which were presented as part of accounts payable and accrued expenses and other current liabilities in our consolidated statements of financial position, amounted to Php2 million each as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015.

4. Advisory Services Agreement between NTT DOCOMO and PLDT

An Advisory Services Agreement was entered into by NTT DOCOMO and PLDT on June 5, 2006, in accordance with the Cooperation Agreement dated January 31, 2006. Pursuant to the Advisory Services Agreement, NTT DOCOMO will provide the services of certain key personnel in connection with certain aspects of the business of PLDT and Smart. Also, this agreement governs the terms and conditions of the appointments of such key personnel and the corresponding fees related thereto. Total fees under this agreement, which were presented as part of professional and other contracted services in our consolidated income statements, amounted to Php68 million and Php63 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015, respectively. Under this agreement, the outstanding obligations of PLDT, which were presented as part of accrued expenses and other current liabilities in our consolidated statements of financial position, amounted to Php30 million and Php5 million as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively.

5. Transactions with Malayan

PLDT and certain of its subsidiaries have insurance policies with Malayan covering directors, officers, liability to employees and material damages for buildings, building improvements, equipment and motor vehicles. The premiums are directly paid to Malayan. Total fees under these contracts, which were presented as part of insurance and security services in our consolidated income statements, amounted to Php183 million and Php186 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015, respectively. Under this agreement, the outstanding obligations, which were presented as part of accrued expenses and other current liabilities in our consolidated statements of financial position, amounted to Php13 million and Php5 million as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively. A director of PLDT has direct/indirect interests in or serves as a director/officer of Malayan as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015.

6. Transactions with Gotuaco

Gotuaco acts as the broker for certain insurance companies to cover certain insurable properties of the PLDT Group. Insurance premiums are remitted to Gotuaco and the broker’s fees are settled between Gotuaco and the insurance companies. Total fees under these contracts, which were presented as part of insurance and security services in our consolidated income statements, amounted to Php114 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2016. Under this agreement, the outstanding obligations, which were presented as part of accrued expenses and other current liabilities in our consolidated statements of financial position, amounted to Php497 thousand as at September 30, 2016. A director of PLDT has direct/indirect interests in or serves as a director/officer of Gotuaco as at September 30, 2016.

  7.   Cooperation Agreement with First Pacific and certain affiliates, or the FP Parties, NTT Communications and NTT DOCOMO

In connection with the transfer by NTT Communications of approximately 12.6 million             shares of PLDT’s common stock to NTT DOCOMO pursuant to a Stock SPA dated January 31, 2006 between NTT Communications and NTT DOCOMO, the FP Parties, NTT Communications and NTT DOCOMO entered into a Cooperation Agreement, dated January 31, 2006. Under the Cooperation Agreement, the relevant parties extended certain rights of NTT Communications under the Stock Purchase and Strategic Investment Agreement dated September 28, 1999, as amended, and the Shareholders Agreement dated March 24, 2000, to NTT DOCOMO, including:

certain contractual veto rights over a number of major decisions or transactions; and

rights relating to the representation on the Board of Directors of PLDT and Smart, respectively, and any committees thereof.

Moreover, key provisions of the Cooperation Agreement pertain to, among other things:

Restriction on Ownership of Shares of PLDT by NTT Communications and NTT DOCOMO. Each of NTT Communications and NTT DOCOMO has agreed not to beneficially own, directly or indirectly, in the aggregate with their respective subsidiaries and affiliates, more than 21% of the issued and outstanding shares of PLDT’s common stock. If such event does occur, the FP Parties, as long as they own in the aggregate not less than 21% of the issued and outstanding shares of PLDT’s common stock, have the right to terminate their respective rights and obligations under the Cooperation Agreement, the Shareholders Agreement and the Stock Purchase and Strategic Investment Agreement.

Limitation on Competition. NTT Communications, NTT DOCOMO and their respective subsidiaries are prohibited from investing in excess of certain thresholds in businesses competing with PLDT in respect of customers principally located in the Philippines and from using their assets in the Philippines in such businesses. Moreover, if PLDT, Smart or any of Smart’s subsidiaries intend to enter into any contractual arrangement relating to certain competing businesses, PLDT is required to provide, or to use reasonable efforts to procure that Smart or any of Smart’s subsidiaries provide, NTT Communications and NTT DOCOMO with the same opportunity to enter into such agreement with PLDT or Smart or any of Smart’s subsidiaries, as the case may be.

Business Cooperation. PLDT and NTT DOCOMO agreed in principle to collaborate with each other on the business development, roll-out and use of a Wireless-Code Division Multiple Access mobile communication network. In addition, PLDT agreed, to the extent of the power conferred by its direct or indirect shareholding in Smart, to procure that Smart will: (i) become a member of a strategic alliance group for international roaming and corporate sales and services; and (ii) enter into a business relationship concerning preferred roaming and inter-operator tariff discounts with NTT DOCOMO.

Additional Rights of NTT DOCOMO. Pursuant to amendments effected by the Cooperation Agreement to the Stock Purchase and Strategic Investment Agreement and the Shareholders Agreement, upon NTT Communications and NTT DOCOMO and their respective subsidiaries owning in the aggregate 20% or more of PLDT’s shares of common stock and for as long as they continue to own in the aggregate at least 17.5% of PLDT’s shares of common stock then outstanding, NTT DOCOMO has additional rights under the Stock Purchase and Strategic Investment Agreement and Shareholders Agreement, including that:

  1.   NTT DOCOMO is entitled to nominate one additional NTT DOCOMO nominee to the Board of Directors of each PLDT and Smart;

  2.   PLDT must consult NTT DOCOMO no later than 30 days prior to the first submission to the board of PLDT or certain of its committees of any proposal of investment in an entity that would primarily engage in a business that would be in direct competition or substantially the same business opportunities, customer base, products or services with business carried on by NTT DOCOMO, or which NTT DOCOMO has announced publicly an intention to carry on;

  3.   PLDT must procure that Smart does not cease to carry on its business, dispose of all of its assets, issue common             shares, merge or consolidate, or effect winding up or liquidation without PLDT first consulting with NTT DOCOMO no later than 30 days prior to the first submission to the board of PLDT or Smart, or certain of its committees; and

  4.   PLDT must first consult with NTT DOCOMO no later than 30 days prior to the first submission to the board of PLDT or certain of its committees for the approval of any transfer by any member of the PLDT Group of Smart common capital stock to any person who is not a member of the PLDT Group.

NTT Communications and NTT DOCOMO together beneficially owned approximately 20% of PLDT’s outstanding common stock as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015.

Change in Control. Each of NTT Communications, NTT DOCOMO and the FP Parties agreed that to the extent permissible under applicable laws and regulations of the Philippines and other jurisdictions, subject to certain conditions, to cast its vote as a shareholder in support of any resolution proposed by the Board of Directors of PLDT for the purpose of safeguarding PLDT from any Hostile Transferee. A “Hostile Transferee” is defined under the Cooperation Agreement to mean any person (other than NTT Communications, NTT DOCOMO, First Pacific or any of their respective affiliates) determined to be so by the PLDT Board of Directors and includes, without limitation, a person who announces an intention to acquire, seeking to acquire or acquires 30% or more of PLDT common shares then issued and outstanding from time to time or having (by itself or together with itself) acquired 30% or more of the PLDT common shares who announces an intention to acquire, seeking to acquire or acquires a further 2% of such PLDT common shares: (a) at a price per share which is less than the fair market value as determined by the Board of Directors of PLDT, as advised by a professional financial advisor; (b) which is subject to conditions which are subjective or which could not be reasonably satisfied; (c) without making an offer for all PLDT common shares not held by it and/or its affiliates and/or persons who, pursuant to an agreement or understanding (whether formal or informal), actively cooperate to obtain or consolidate control over PLDT; (d) whose offer for the PLDT common shares is unlikely to succeed; or (e) whose intention is otherwise not bona fide; provided that, no person will be deemed a Hostile Transferee unless prior to making such determination, the Board of Directors of PLDT has used reasonable efforts to discuss with NTT Communications and NTT DOCOMO in good faith whether such person should be considered a Hostile Transferee.

Termination. If NTT Communications, NTT DOCOMO or their respective subsidiaries cease to own, in the aggregate, full legal and beneficial title to at least 10% of the shares of PLDT’s common stock then issued and outstanding, their respective rights and obligations under the Cooperation Agreement and the Shareholders Agreement will terminate and the Strategic Arrangements (as defined in the Stock Purchase and Strategic Investment Agreement) will terminate. If the FP Parties and their respective subsidiaries cease to have, directly or indirectly, effective voting power in respect of shares of PLDT’s common stock representing at least 18.5% of the shares of PLDT’s common stock then issued and outstanding, their respective rights and obligations under the Cooperation Agreement, the Stock Purchase and Strategic Investment Agreement, and the Shareholders Agreement will terminate.

  f.   Others

  1.   Telecommunications services provided by PLDT and certain of its subsidiaries and other transactions with various related parties

PLDT and certain of its subsidiaries provide telephone, data communication and other services to various related parties. The revenues under these services amounted to Php620 million and Php607 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015, respectively.

The outstanding receivables of PLDT and certain of its subsidiaries, which were presented as part of trade and other receivables, advances and other noncurrent assets – net of current portion in our consolidated statements of financial position, from these transactions amounted to Php10,370 million and Php1,588 million as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively.

See Note 10 – Investments in Associates and Joint Ventures Investment in MediaQuest PDRs and Sale of PCEV’s Beacon Shares to MPIC and Note 19 – Prepayments – Agreement of PLDT and Smart with TV5 for other related party transactions.

Compensation of Key Officers of the PLDT Group

The compensation of key officers of the PLDT Group by benefit type for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015 are as follows:

                 
    September 30,
    2016   2015
    (Unaudited)
    (in million pesos)
Short-term employee benefits
    411       451  
Post-employment benefits (Note 26)
    37       32  
Total compensation paid to key officers of the PLDT Group
     448        483  
 
               

Effective January 2014, each of the directors, including the members of the advisory board of PLDT, was entitled to a director’s fee in the amount of Php250 thousand for each board meeting attended. Each of the members or advisors of the audit, executive compensation, governance and nomination, and technology strategy committees was entitled to a fee in the amount of Php125 thousand for each committee meeting attended.

Total fees paid for board meetings and board committee meetings amounted to Php66 million and Php63 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015, respectively.

Except for the fees mentioned above, the directors are not compensated, directly or indirectly, for their services as such.

There are no agreements between PLDT Group and any of its key management personnel providing for benefits upon termination of employment, except for such benefits to which they may be entitled under PLDT Group’s retirement and incentive plans.

The amounts disclosed in the table are the amounts recognized as expenses during the period related to key management personnel.

26. Employee Benefits

Pension

Defined Benefit Pension Plans

PLDT has defined benefit pension plans, operating under the legal name “The Board of Trustees for the account of the Beneficial Trust Fund created pursuant to the Benefit Plan of PLDT Company” and covering all of our permanent and regular employees. Certain subsidiaries of PLDT have not yet drawn up a specific retirement plan for its permanent or regular employees. For the purpose of complying with Revised PAS 19, pension benefit expense has been actuarially computed based on defined benefit plan.

PLDT’s actuarial valuation is performed every year-end. Based on the latest actuarial valuation, the actual present value of accrued (prepaid) benefit costs for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and for the year ended December 31, 2015 and the net periodic benefit costs and average assumptions used in developing the valuation for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015 are as follows:

                 
    September 30,   December 31,
    2016   2015
    (Unaudited)   (Audited)
    (in million pesos)
Changes in the present value of defined benefit obligations:
               
Present value of defined benefit obligations at beginning of the period
    21,602       23,072  
Service costs
    803       1,113  
Interest costs on benefit obligation
    783       1,050  
Actual benefits paid/settlements
    (197 )     (2,112 )
Actuarial losses – experience
          3  
Actuarial gains – economic assumptions
          (1,414 )
Curtailments and others (Notes 2 and 5)
    (36 )     (110 )
 
               
Present value of defined benefit obligations at end of the period
    22,955       21,602  
 
               
Changes in fair value of plan assets:
               
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of the period
    11,439       9,950  
Actual contributions
    4,674       7,086  
Interest income on plan assets
    428       519  
Actual benefits paid/settlements
    (197 )     (2,112 )
Return on plan assets (excluding amount included in net interest)
    (4,714 )     (4,004 )
 
               
Fair value of plan assets at end of the period
    11,630       11,439  
 
               
Unfunded status – net
    (11,325 )     (10,163 )
Accrued benefit costs (Note 3)
    11,340       10,178  
 
               
Prepaid benefit costs (Notes 3 and 19)
    15       15  
 
               
                 
    September 30,
    2016   2015
    (Unaudited)
    (in million pesos)
Components of net periodic benefit costs:
               
Service costs
    803       849  
Interest costs – net
    355       402  
Curtailment/settlement gain
          (26 )
Net periodic benefit costs (Notes 3 and 5)
    1,158       1,225  
 
               

Actual net losses on plan assets amounted to Php4,286 million and Php4,493 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015, respectively.

Based on the latest actuarial valuation, our expected contribution to the defined benefit plan in 2016 will amount to Php1,411 million.

The following table sets forth the expected future settlements by the Plan of maturing defined benefit obligation as at September 30, 2016:

         
    (in million pesos)
2016
    257  
2017
    287  
2018
    342  
2019
    468  
2020
    608  
2021 to 2060
    89,161  
 
       

The average duration of the defined benefit obligation at the end of the reporting period is 9 to 21 years.

The weighted average assumptions used to determine pension benefits for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015 are as follows:

                 
    September 30,
    2016   2015
    (Unaudited)
Rate of increase in compensation
    6.0 %     6.0 %
Discount rate
    5.0 %     4.5 %
 
               

We have adopted mortality rates in accordance with the 1994 Group Annuity Mortality Table developed by the U.S. Society of Actuaries, which provides separate rates for males and females.

The sensitivity analysis below has been determined based on reasonably possible changes of each significant assumption on the defined benefit obligation as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, assuming if all other assumptions were held constant:

                 
    Increase (Decrease)
    (in million pesos)
Discount rate
    1 %     (2,500 )
 
    (1 %)     2,947  
Future salary increases
    1 %     2,888  
 
    (1 %)     (2,503 )
 
               

PLDT’s Retirement Plan

The Board of Trustees, which manages the beneficial trust fund, is composed of: (i) a member of the Board of Directors of PLDT, who is not a beneficiary of the Plan; (ii) a member of the Board of Directors or a senior officer of PLDT, who is a beneficiary of the Plan; (iii) a senior member of the executive staff of PLDT; and (iv) two persons who are not executives nor employees of PLDT.

Benefits are payable in the event of termination of employment due to: (i) compulsory, optional, or deferred retirement; (ii) death while in active service; (iii) physical disability; (iv) voluntary resignation; or (v) involuntary separation from service. For a plan member with less than 15 years of credited services, retirement benefit is equal to 100% of final compensation for every year of service. For those with at least 15 years of service, retirement benefit is equal to 125% of final compensation for every year of service, with such percentage to be increased by an additional 5% for each completed year of service in excess of 15 years, but not to exceed a maximum of 200%. In case of voluntary resignation after attainment of age 40 and completion of at least 15 years of credited service, benefit is equal to a percentage of his vested retirement benefit, in accordance with percentages prescribed in the retirement plan.

The Board of Trustees of the beneficial trust fund uses an investment approach with the objective of maximizing the long-term expected return of plan assets.

The majority of Plan’s investment portfolio consists of listed and unlisted equity securities while the remaining portion consists of passive investments like temporary cash investments and fixed income investments.

The plan assets are primarily exposed to financial risks such as liquidity risk and price risk.

Liquidity risk pertains to the plan’s ability to meet its obligation to the employees upon retirement. To effectively manage liquidity risk, the Board of Trustees invests at least the equivalent amount of actuarially computed expected compulsory retirement benefit payments for the period to liquid/semi-liquid assets such as treasury notes, treasury bills, savings and time deposits with commercial banks.

Price risk pertains mainly to fluctuations in market prices of equity securities listed in the PSE. In order to effectively manage price risk, the Board of Trustees continuously assesses these risks by closely monitoring the market value of the securities and implementing prudent investment strategies.

The following table sets forth the fair values, which are equal to the carrying values, of PLDT’s plan assets recognized as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015:

                 
    September 30,   December 31,
    2016   2015
    (Unaudited)   (Audited)
    (in million pesos)
Noncurrent Financial Assets
               
Investments in:
               
Unlisted equity investments
    8,285       8,258  
Shares of stock
    2,717       2,621  
Corporate bonds
    62        
Mutual funds
    24       61  
Government securities
    23       41  
Investment properties
    4       10  
 
               
Total noncurrent financial assets
    11,115       10,991  
 
               
Current Financial Assets
               
Cash and cash equivalents
    426       360  
Receivables
    4       5  
 
               
Total current financial assets
     430        365  
 
               
Total PLDT’s Plan Assets
    11,545       11,356  
Subsidiaries Plan Assets
    85       83  
 
               
Total Plan Assets of Defined Benefit Pension Plans
    11,630       11,439  
 
               

Investment in shares of stocks is valued using the latest bid price at the reporting date. Investments in corporate bonds, mutual funds and government securities are valued using the market values at reporting date. Investment properties are valued using the latest available appraised values.

Unlisted Equity Investments

As at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, this account consists of:

                                 
    September 30,   December 31,   September 30,   December 31,
    2016   2015   2016   2015
    (Unaudited)   (Audited)   (Unaudited)   (Audited)
    % of Ownership   (in million pesos)
MediaQuest
    100 %     100 %     7,672       7,672  
Tahanan Mutual Building and Loan Association, Inc., or TMBLA, (net of subscriptions payable of Php32 million)
    100 %     100 %     385       365  
BTFHI
    100 %     100 %     189       182  
Superior Multi Parañaque Homes, Inc.
    100 %     100 %     38       38  
Bancholders, Inc., or Bancholders
    100 %     100 %     1       1  
 
                    8,285       8,258  
 
                               

Investment in MediaQuest

MediaQuest was registered with the Philippine SEC on June 29, 1999 primarily to purchase, subscribe for or otherwise acquire and own, hold, use, manage, sell, assign, transfer, mortgage, pledge, exchange, or otherwise dispose of real and personal property or every kind and description, and to pay thereof in whole or in part, in cash or by exchanging, stocks, bonds and other evidences of indebtedness or securities of this any other corporation. Its investments include common shares of stocks of various communication, broadcasting and media entities.

On May 8, 2012, the Board of Trustees of the Beneficial Trust Fund approved the issuance by MediaQuest of PDRs amounting to Php6 billion. The underlying shares of these PDRs are the             shares of stocks of Cignal TV held by MediaQuest through Satventures (Cignal TV PDRs). On the same date, MediaQuest Board of Directors approved the investment in Cignal TV PDRs by ePLDT, which give ePLDT a 40% economic interest in Cignal TV. In June 2012, MediaQuest received a deposit for future PDRs subscription of Php4 billion from ePLDT. Additional deposits of Php1 billion each were received on July 6, 2012 and August 9, 2012.

On January 25, 2013, the Board of Trustees of the Beneficial Trust Fund and the MediaQuest Board of Directors approved the issuance of additional MediaQuest PDRs amounting to Php3.6 billion. The underlying shares of these additional PDRs are the shares of Satventures held by MediaQuest (Satventures PDRs), the holder of which will have a 40% economic interest in Satventures. Satventures is a wholly-owned subsidiary of MediaQuest and the investment vehicle for Cignal TV. From March to August 2013, MediaQuest received from ePLDT an amount aggregating to Php3.6 billion representing deposits for future PDRs subscription. The Satventures PDRs and Cignal TV PDRs were subsequently issued on September 27, 2013, providing ePLDT an effective 64% economic interest in Cignal TV.

Also, on January 25, 2013, the Board of Trustees of the Beneficial Trust Fund and the MediaQuest Board of Directors approved the issuance of additional MediaQuest PDRs amounting to Php1.95 billion. The underlying shares of these additional PDRs are the shares of stocks of Hastings held by MediaQuest (Hastings PDRs). Hastings is a wholly-owned subsidiary of MediaQuest, which holds all the print-related investments of MediaQuest, including equity interests in the three leading newspapers: The Philippine Star, Philippine Daily Inquirer, and Business World. From June 2013 to October 2013, MediaQuest received from ePLDT an amount aggregating to Php1.95 billion representing deposits for future PDRs subscription.

On February 19, 2014, ePLDT’s Board of Directors approved an additional Php500 million investment in Hastings PDRs. On March 11, 2014, MediaQuest received from ePLDT an amount aggregating to Php300 million representing deposits for future PDRs subscription. As at December 31, 2014, total deposit for PDRs subscription amounted to Php2,250 million.

On May 21, 2015, ePLDT’s Board of Directors approved an additional Php800 million investment in Hastings PDRs and settlement of the Php200 million balance of the Php500 million Hastings PDR investment in 2014. Subsequently, on May 30, 2015, the Board of Trustees of the Beneficial Trust Fund and the Board of Directors of MediaQuest approved the issuance of Php3,250 million Hastings PDRs. This provided ePLDT with 70% economic interest in Hastings. See Note 10 – Investments in Associates and Joint Ventures – Investment in MediaQuest PDRs.

In 2015, the Board of Trustees of the Beneficial Trust Fund approved additional investments in MediaQuest amounting to Php5,090 million to fund MediaQuest’s investment requirements and such amount was fully drawn by MediaQuest as at December 31, 2015.

In 2016, the Board of Trustees of the Beneficial Trust Fund approved additional investments in MediaQuest amounting to Php5,500 million to fund the latter’s investment requirements for the year 2016. Of the Php5,500 million, a total of Php4,500 million had already been drawn by MediaQuest as at September 30, 2016.

PAS 19 requires employee benefit plan assets to be measured at fair value. The fair values of the investments in MediaQuest were measured using an income approach valuation technique using cash flows projections based on financial budgets and forecasts approved by MediaQuest’s Board of Directors, covering a five-year period from 2016 to 2020.

The pre-tax discount rates applied to cash flow projections range from 10% to 12%. Cash flows beyond the five-year period are determined using 0% to 4.5% growth rates.

Investment in TMBLA

TMBLA was incorporated for the primary purpose of accumulating the savings of its stockholders and lending funds to them for housing programs. The beneficial trust fund has a direct subscription in shares of stocks of TMBLA in the amount of Php112 million. The related unpaid subscription of Php32 million is included in unlisted equity investments. The cumulative change in the fair market value of this investment amounted to Php305 million and Php285 million as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively.

Investment in BTFHI

BTFHI was incorporated for the primary purpose of acquiring voting preferred shares in PLDT and while the owner, holder of possessor thereof, to exercise all the rights, powers, and privileges of ownership or any other interest therein.

On October 26, 2012, BTFHI subscribed to a total of 150 million shares of Voting Preferred Stock of PLDT at a subscription price of Php1.00 per share for a total subscription price of Php150 million. Total cash dividend income amounted to Php6.9 million each for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015. Dividend receivables amounted to Php2 million each as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015.

Shares of Stocks

As at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, this account consists of:

                 
    September 30,   December 31,
    2016   2015
    (Unaudited)   (Audited)
    (in million pesos)
Common shares
               
PSE
    1,794       1,754  
PLDT
    45       54  
Others
    518       453  
Preferred shares
    360       360  
 
               
 
    2,717       2,621  
 
               

Dividends earned on PLDT common shares amounted Php2.8 million and Php2.3 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015, respectively.

Preferred shares represent 300 million unlisted preferred shares of PLDT at Php10 par value as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, net of subscription payable of Php2,640 million. These shares, which bear dividend of 13.5% per annum based on the paid-up subscription price, are cumulative, non-convertible and redeemable at par value at the option of PLDT. Dividends earned on this investment amounted to Php37 million each for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015.

Corporate Bonds

Investment in corporate bonds includes various long-term bonds with maturities ranging from August 2019 to August 2022 and fixed interest rates from 4.51% to 6.94% per annum. Total investment in corporate funds amounted to Php62 million as at September 30, 2016.

Mutual Funds

Investment in mutual funds includes various U.S. dollar and Euro denominated equity funds, which aims to out-perform benchmarks in various international indices as part of its investment strategy. Total investment in mutual funds amounted to Php24 million and Php61 million as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively.

Government Securities

Investment in government securities includes FXTN bearing interest rates ranging from 5.87% to 5.88% per annum. These securities are fully guaranteed by the government of the Republic of the Philippines. Total investment in government securities amounted to Php23 million and Php41 million as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively.

Investment Properties

Investment properties include one condominium unit (bare and 58 square meter unit) located in Ayala-FGU Building along Alabang-Zapote Road in Muntinlupa City. A similar unit of a larger floor area (127 square meters) located on the same building was sold in April 2016. Total fair value of investment properties amounted to Php4 million and Php10 million as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively.

The asset allocation of the Plan is set and reviewed from time to time by the Plan Trustees taking into account the membership profile, the liquidity requirements of the Plan and risk appetite of the Plan sponsor. This considers the expected benefit cash flows to be matched with asset durations.

The allocation of the fair value of the assets for the PLDT pension plan as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015 are as follows:

                 
    September 30,   December 31,
    2016   2015
    (Unaudited)   (Audited)
Investments in listed and unlisted equity securities
    95 %     96 %
Temporary cash investments
    4 %     3 %
Debt and fixed income securities
    1 %      
Investments in mutual funds
          1 %
 
    100 %     100 %
 
               

Defined Contribution Plans

Smart’s and certain of its subsidiaries’ contributions to the plan are made based on the employees’ years of tenure and range from 5% to 10% of the employee’s monthly salary. Additionally, an employee has an option to make a personal contribution to the fund, at an amount not exceeding 10% of his monthly salary. The employer then provides an additional contribution to the fund ranging from 10% to 50% of the employee’s contribution based on the employee’s years of tenure. Although the plan has a defined contribution format, Smart and certain of its subsidiaries regularly monitor compliance with R.A. 7641. As at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, Smart and certain of its subsidiaries were in compliance with the requirements of R.A. 7641.

Smart’s and certain of its subsidiaries’ actuarial valuation is performed every year-end. Based on the latest actuarial valuation, the actual present value of prepaid benefit costs for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and for the year ended December 31, 2015 and the net periodic benefit costs and average assumptions used in developing the valuation for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015 are as follows:

                 
    September 30,   December 31,
    2016   2015
    (Unaudited)   (Audited)
    (in million pesos)
Changes in the present value of defined benefit obligations:
               
Present value of defined benefit obligations at beginning of the period
    2,116       2,149  
Service costs
    63       289  
Interest costs on benefit obligation
          98  
Actuarial gains – economic assumptions
          (67 )
Actual benefits paid/settlements
          (96 )
Actuarial gains – experience
          (217 )
Curtailment and others
    (153 )     (40 )
Present value of defined benefit obligations at end of the period
    2,026       2,116  
 
               
Changes in fair value of plan assets:
               
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of the period
    2,388       2,205  
Actual benefits paid/settlements
    11       (96 )
Actual contributions
          227  
Interest income on plan assets
          92  
Return on plan assets (excluding amount included in net interest)
          (40 )
 
               
Fair value of plan assets at end of the period
    2,399       2,388  
 
               
Funded status – net (Notes 3 and 19)
     373        272  
Accrued benefit costs (Note 3)
    4       19  
 
               
Prepaid benefit costs (Note 3)
     377        291  
 
               

Smart’s net consolidated pension benefit costs amounted to Php63 million and Php204 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015, respectively.

Actual net gains on plan assets amounted to nil and Php56 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015, respectively.

Based on the latest actuarial valuation, Smart and certain of its subsidiaries expect to contribute the amount of approximately Php327 million to its defined benefit plan in 2016.

The following table sets forth the expected future settlements by the Plan of maturing defined benefit obligation as at September 30, 2016:

         
    (in million pesos)
2016
    149  
2017
    60  
2018
    83  
2019
    93  
2020
    145  
2021 to 2060
    17,673  
 
       

The average duration of the defined benefit obligation at the end of the reporting period is 15 years.

The weighted average assumptions used to determine pension benefits for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015 are as follows:

                 
    September 30,
    2016   2015
    (Unaudited)
Rate of increase in compensation
    5.0 %     7.0 %
Discount rate
    5.0 %     4.5 %
 
               

The sensitivity analysis below has been determined based on reasonably possible changes of each significant assumption on the defined benefit obligation as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, assuming if all other assumptions were held constant:

                 
    Increase (Decrease)
    (in million pesos)
Discount rate
    1.0 %     (10 )
 
    (1.0 %)     20  
Future salary increases
    1.0 %     20  
 
    (1.0 %)     (10 )
 
               

Smart’s Retirement Plan

The fund is being managed and invested by BPI Asset Management and Trust Group, as Trustee, pursuant to an amended trust agreement dated February 21, 2012.

The plan’s investment portfolio seeks to achieve regular income, long-term capital growth and consistent performance over its own portfolio benchmark. In order to attain this objective, the Trustee’s mandate is to invest in a diversified portfolio of bonds and equities, both domestic and international. The portfolio mix is kept at 60% to 90% for debt and fixed income securities, while 10% to 40% is allotted to equity securities.

The following table sets forth the fair values, which are equal to the carrying values, of Smart’s plan assets recognized as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015:

                 
    September 30,   December 31,
    2016   2015
    (Unaudited)   (Audited)
    (in million pesos)
Noncurrent Financial Assets
               
Investments in:
               
Domestic fixed income
    1,398       1,411  
Domestic equities
    593       424  
Philippine foreign currency bonds
    499       352  
International equities
    430       460  
International fixed income
    160        
Total noncurrent financial assets
    3,080       2,647  
 
               
Current Financial Assets
               
Cash and cash equivalents
    98       431  
Receivables
    94       4  
 
               
Total current financial assets
     192        435  
 
               
Total plan assets
    3,272       3,082  
 
               
Employee’s share, forfeitures and mandatory reserve account
    873       805  
 
               
Smart’s plan assets
    2,288       2,277  
Subsidiaries’ plan assets
    111       111  
 
               
Total Plan Assets of Defined Contribution Plans
    2,399       2,388  
 
               

Domestic Fixed Income

Investments in domestic fixed income include Philippine peso denominated bonds, such as government securities and corporate debt securities managed by BPI Asset Management and Trust Group which is invested in a diversified portfolio of Philippine peso-denominated fixed income instruments. The investments under this category, exclusive of the mutual fund, earned between 2.80% and 9.13% interest for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015, respectively. Total investments in domestic fixed income amounted to Php1,398 million and Php1,411 million as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively.

Domestic Equities

Investments in domestic equities include direct equity investments in common shares and convertible preferred shares listed in the PSE and a local equity fund managed by BPI Asset Management and Trust Group which is invested in a diversified portfolio of stocks listed in the PSE. These investments earn on stock price appreciation and dividend payments. Total investment in domestic equities amounted to Php593 million and Php424 million as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively. This includes investment in PLDT             shares with fair value of Php23 million and Php31 million as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively.

Philippine Foreign Currency Bonds

Investments in Philippine foreign currency bonds include investments in U.S. dollar denominated fixed income instruments issued by the Philippine government, local corporations and financial institutions. The investments under this category earned between 3.70% and 4.25% interest for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015, respectively. Total investment in Philippine foreign currency bonds amounted to Php499 million and Php352 million as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively.

International Equities

Investments in international equities include mutual funds managed by ING International and an offshore investment in a global mutual fund managed by Franklin Templeton, which are all invested in diversified portfolios of global equities. Total investment in international equities amounted to Php430 million and Php460 million as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively.

International Fixed Income

Investments in international fixed income include mutual funds which are invested in diversified portfolios of high-yield foreign currency denominated bonds. Total investments in international fixed income amounted to Php160 million and nil as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively.

Cash and Cash Equivalents

This pertains to the fund’s excess liquidity in Philippine peso and U.S. dollars including investments in time deposits, money market funds and other deposit products of banks with duration or tenor less than a year.

The asset allocation of the Plan is set and reviewed from time to time by the Plan Trustees taking into account the membership profile, the liquidity requirements of the Plan and risk appetite of the Plan sponsor. This considers the expected benefit cash flows to be matched with asset durations.

The plan assets are primarily exposed to financial risks such as liquidity risk and price risk.

Liquidity risk pertains to the plan’s ability to meet its obligation to the employees upon retirement. To effectively manage liquidity risk, the Plan Trustees invests a portion of the fund in readily tradeable and liquid investments which can be sold at any given time to fund liquidity requirements.

Price risk pertains mainly to fluctuations in market prices of equity securities listed in the PSE. In order to effectively manage price risk, the Plan Trustees continuously assesses these risks by closely monitoring the market value of the securities and implementing prudent investment strategies.

The allocation of the fair value of Smart and certain of its subsidiaries pension plan assets as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015 is as follows:

                 
    September 30,   December 31,
    2016   2015
    (Unaudited)   (Audited)
Investments in debt and fixed income securities and others
    67 %     71 %
Investments in listed and unlisted equity securities
    33 %     29 %
 
    100 %     100 %
 
               

27. Provisions and Contingencies

PLDT’s Local Business and Franchise Tax Assessments

Pursuant to a decision of the Supreme Court on March 25, 2003 in the case of PLDT vs. City of Davao declaring PLDT not exempt from the local franchise tax, PLDT started paying local franchise tax to various Local Government Units, or LGU. As at September 30, 2016, PLDT has no contested LGU assessments for franchise taxes based on gross receipts received or collected for services within their respective territorial jurisdiction.

However, PLDT contested the imposition of local business taxes in addition to local franchise tax by the City of Tuguegarao for the years 2006 to 2011 by filing a Petition with the Regional Trial Court, or RTC, of the City of Makati on July 8, 2011. In an order dated October 12, 2012, the RTC, following a Motion to Dismiss filed by the City of Tuguegarao, dismissed the petition for lack of jurisdiction. Upon denial of its Motion for Reconsideration, PLDT filed a Petition for Review before the Court of Tax Appeals, or CTA, which dismissed the said Petition and upheld the decision of the RTC. On July 28, 2014, PLDT filed a Motion for Reconsideration which was also denied by the CTA. PLDT filed a Petition before the CTA En Banc on November 3, 2014. On June 17, 2016, CTA En Banc affirmed the Decision of CTA Division and dismissed the petition for lack of jurisdiction. PLDT filed its Motion for Reconsideration on the said Decision of CTA En Banc last July 12, 2016.

PLDT also contested the imposition of local business tax in addition to local franchise tax by the City of Tuguegarao for the years 2012 to 2014. The case was filed on January 14, 2015 before the Second Judicial Region of Tuguegarao City. Upon motion by both parties and considering that the case involves legal issues, the Court issued an Order terminating the pre-trial conference and ordering the parties to submit their respective Memorandum last July 27, 2016 and the case is now submitted for decision.

Smart’s Local Business and Franchise Tax Assessments

The Province of Cagayan issued a tax assessment against Smart for alleged local franchise tax. In 2011, Smart appealed the assessment to the RTC of Makati on the ground that Smart cannot be held liable for local franchise tax mainly because it has no sales office within the Province of Cagayan pursuant to Section 137 of the Local Government Code (Republic Act No. 7160). The RTC issued a Temporary Restraining Order and a writ of preliminary injunction. On April 30, 2012, the RTC rendered a decision nullifying the tax assessment. The Province of Cagayan was also directed to cease and desist from imposing local franchise taxes on Smart’s gross receipts. The Province of Cagayan then appealed to the CTA. In a Decision promulgated on July 25, 2013, the CTA ruled that the franchise tax assessment is null and void for lack of legal and factual justifications. Cagayan’s Motion for Reconsideration was denied. Cagayan then appealed before the CTA En Banc. The CTA En Banc issued a Decision dated December 8, 2015 affirming the nullity of the tax assessment.

In 2015, the City of Manila issued assessments for alleged business tax deficiencies and cell sites regulatory fees and charges. Smart protested the assessments. After Manila denied the protest, Smart appealed to the RTC of the City of Manila, arguing that it is not liable for local business taxes on income realized from its telecommunications operations and that the assessments were a clear circumvention of Manila City Ordinance No. 8299 exempting Smart from the payment of local franchise tax. The assessment for regulatory fees was contested for being void, as they were made without a valid and legal basis. In the Decision promulgated on March 9, 2016, the RTC declared the local business tax and cell site regulatory fee assessments as invalid and void. The City of Manila filed a Petition for Review with the Court of Tax Appeals seeking to reverse the Decision. Smart has already filed its Comment to the Petition and awaiting for further orders from the Court.

Digitel’s Franchise Tax Assessment and Real Property Tax Assessment

In the case of Digitel vs. Province of Pangasinan (G.R. No. 152534, February 23, 2007), the Supreme Court held that Digitel is liable to the Province of Pangasinan for franchise tax from November 13, 1992 and real property tax only on real properties not actually, directly and exclusively used in the franchise operations from February 17, 1994. Digitel has fully settled its obligation with the Province of Pangasinan with respect to franchise tax and is currently in talks with the Province for the settlement of the real property tax.

DMPI’s Local Business and Real Property Taxes Assessments

In DMPI vs. City of Cotabato, DMPI filed a Petition in 2010 for Prohibition and Mandamus against the City of Cotabato due to their threats to close its cell sites due to alleged real property tax delinquencies. The RTC denied the petition. DMPI appealed with the CTA. The CTA ordered the City of Cotabato to file their Comment.

In the DMPI vs. City of Davao, DMPI filed in 2011 a Petition for Prohibition and Mandamus and sought the Court’s intervention due to the threats issued by the City of Davao to stop the operations of DMPI business centers in the locality due to lack of business permits. DMPI contended that the City of Davao’s act of refusing to process its applications due to failure to pay real property taxes and business taxes is unwarranted. Davao’s Legal Officer and City Assessor confirmed that DMPI’s machinery is exempt from real property tax. On March 20, 2015, the Court has approved DMPI’s Motion which prayed for the dismissal of the case.

In the DMPI vs. City Government of Malabon, DMPI filed in 2011 a Petition for Prohibition and Mandamus against the City of Malabon to prevent the auction sale of DMPI sites in its jurisdiction for alleged real property tax liabilities. DMPI was able to secure a TRO to defer the sale. As at
November 14, 2016, there is an ongoing mediation and the parties are exploring the possibility of settling amicably.

DMPI’s Local Tower Fee Assessments

In DMPI vs. Municipality of San Mateo, DMPI filed in 2011 a petition for Prohibition and Mandamus with Preliminary Injunction and TRO against the Tower Fee Ordinance of the Municipality of San Mateo.  In 2014, the RTC ruled in favor of DMPI and declared the ordinance void and without legal force and effect. The Municipality of San Mateo appealed with the CA. The case has been submitted for resolution.

Meanwhile, in DMPI vs. the City Government of Santiago City and the City Permits and License Inspection Office of Santiago City, Isabela (CA-G.R. SP No. 127253) (Special Civil Action Case No. 36-0360, February 2011), the City Government of Santiago City filed an appeal with the CA after the lower court granted DMPI’s petition and ruled as unconstitutional the provision of the ordinance imposing the Php200 thousand per cell site per annum. On May 5, 2015, the Appeal was dismissed and the ruling issued by the trial court was affirmed.

DMPI vs. City of Trece Martires – In 2010, DMPI petitioned to declare void the City of Trece Martires ordinance of imposing tower fee of Php150 thousand for each cell site annually. Application for the issuance of a preliminary injunction by DMPI is pending resolution.

Globe Telecom, et al. vs. City of Lipa – In 2006, Globe filed a Protest of Assessment questioning the act of the City of Lipa in assessing tower fees for its sites amounting to Php105 thousand per year. Smart, Digitel and DMPI submitted a joint memorandum in June 2013 pertaining to the issue. However, the Sangguniang Panglungsod has since repealed the ordinance, and issued instead Tax Ordinance No. 177, which imposes a one-time regulatory fee of Php50 thousand for every tower to be constructed in the City of Lipa. The Joint Motion to Dismiss filed by Smart and DMPI on June 8, 2015 is pending resolution.

Arbitration with Eastern Telecommunications Philippines, Inc., or ETPI

Since 1990, PLDT and ETPI have been engaged in legal proceedings involving a number of issues in connection with their business relationship. While they have entered into compromise agreements in the past (one in February 1990, and another one in March 1999), these agreements have not put to rest their issues against each other. Accordingly, to avoid further protracted litigation and improve their business relationship, both PLDT and ETPI have agreed in April 2008 to submit their differences and issues to voluntary arbitration. For this arbitration (after collating various claims of one party against the other) ETPI, on one hand, submitted its claims with a cap of Php2.8 billion against PLDT; while PLDT, on the other hand, submitted its claims of about Php2.8 billion against ETPI. Pursuant to an agreement between PLDT and ETPI, the arbitration proceedings were suspended and eventually terminated.

In an agreement, Globe and PLDT have agreed that they shall cause ETPI, within a reasonable time after May 30, 2016, to dismiss Civil Case No. 17694 entitled Eastern Telecommunications Philippines, Inc. vs. Philippine Long Distance Telephone Company, and all related or incidental proceedings (including the voluntary arbitration between ETPI and PLDT), and PLDT, in turn, simultaneously, shall withdraw its counterclaims against ETPI in the same entitled case, all with prejudice.

In the Matter of the Wilson Gamboa Case and Jose M. Roy III Petition

On June 29, 2011, the Supreme Court of the Philippines, or the Court, promulgated a Decision in the case of Wilson P. Gamboa vs. Finance Secretary Margarito B. Teves, et. al. (G.R. No. 176579) (the “Gamboa Case”), holding that “the term ‘capital’ in Section 11, Article XII of the 1987 Constitution refers only to shares of stock entitled to vote in the election of directors and thus only to voting common shares, and not to the total outstanding capital stock (common and non-voting preferred shares)”. This decision reversed earlier opinions issued by the Philippine SEC that non-voting preferred shares are included in the computation of the 60%-40% Filipino-alien equity requirement of certain economic activities, such as telecommunications (which is a public utility under Section 11, Article XII of the 1987 Constitution).

Although PLDT is not a party to the Gamboa Case, in its decision, the Court directed the Philippine SEC “to apply this definition of the term ‘capital’ in determining the extent of allowable foreign ownership in PLDT, and if there is a violation of Section 11, Article XII of the 1987 Constitution, to impose the appropriate sanctions under the law.” Although the parties to the Gamboa Case filed Motions for Reconsideration of the decision and argued their positions before the Court, the Court ultimately denied the motions on October 9, 2012.

Meanwhile, on July 5, 2011, the Board of Directors of PLDT approved the amendments to the Seventh Article of Amended Articles of Incorporation of PLDT, or the Amendments to the Articles, which subclassified its authorized preferred capital into preferred shares with full voting rights, or Voting Preferred Shares, and serial preferred shares without voting rights. The Amendments to the Articles were subsequently approved by the stockholders of PLDT and the Philippine SEC. 

On October 15, 2012, PLDT and BTFHI, a Filipino corporation and a wholly-owned company of The Board of Trustees for the Account of the Beneficial Trust Fund created pursuant to the PLDT’s Benefit Plan, entered into a Subscription Agreement, pursuant to which PLDT issued 150 million Voting Preferred Shares to BTFHI at Php1.00 per share reducing the percentage of PLDT’s voting stock held by foreigners from 56.62% (based on Voting Common Stock) as at October 15, 2012 to 18.37% (based on Voting Common and Preferred Stock) as at April 15, 2013.

On May 20, 2013, the Philippine SEC issued SEC Memorandum Circular No. 8, Series of 2013, or the Philippine SEC Guidelines, which we believe was intended to fulfill the Court’s directive to the Philippine SEC in the Gamboa Case. The Philippine SEC Guidelines provided that “the required percentage of Filipino ownership shall be applied to BOTH: (a) the total number of outstanding shares of stock entitled to vote in the election of directors; AND (b) the total number of outstanding shares of stock, whether or not entitled to vote in the election of directors.” PLDT believes it was, and continues to be, compliant with the Philippine SEC Guidelines. As at November 9, 2016, PLDT’s foreign ownership was 28.82% of its outstanding shares entitled to vote (Common and Voting Preferred Shares), and 15.84% of its total outstanding capital stock. Therefore, we believe that as at November 9, 2016, PLDT is in compliance with the requirement of Section 11, Article XII of the 1987 Constitution.

On June 10, 2013, Jose M. Roy III filed a petition for certiorari with the Supreme Court against the Philippine SEC, Philippine SEC Chairperson Teresita Herbosa and PLDT, claiming: (1) that the Philippine SEC Guidelines violates the Court’s decision in the Gamboa Case (on the basis that
(a) the 60-40 ownership requirement be imposed on “each class of shares” and (b) Filipinos must have full beneficial ownership of 60% of the outstanding capital stock of corporations subject to the foreign ownership requirements); and (2) that the PLDT Beneficial Trust Fund is not a Filipino-owned entity and consequently, the corporations owned by PLDT Beneficial Trust Fund, including BTFHI, cannot be considered Filipino-owned corporations.

PLDT raised several procedural and substantive arguments against the petition, including in particular, that (a) the Philippine SEC Guidelines merely implemented the dispositive portion of the decision in the Gamboa Case, and that the dispositive portion of the Gamboa Case that defines “capital” is properly reflected in the Philippine SEC Guidelines, and (b) the fundamental requirements which need to be satisfied in order for PLDT Beneficial Trust Fund and BTFHI to be considered Filipino (for PLDT Beneficial Trust Fund’s Trustees to be Filipinos and for 60% of the Fund to accrue to the benefit of Philippine nationals) are satisfied with respect to the PLDT Beneficial Trust Fund, and therefore, PLDT Beneficial Trust Fund and BTFHI are Filipino shareholders for purposes of classifying their 150 million Voting Preferred Shares in PLDT. As a result, more than 60% of PLDT’s total voting stock is Filipino-owned and PLDT is compliant with the Constitutional ownership requirements.

In 2013, the Philippine SEC and Chairperson Teresita Herbosa also raised a number of arguments for dismissal of the petition for being procedurally flawed and for lack of merit.

In May 2014, the petitioner filed a consolidated reply and a motion for the issuance of a temporary restraining order to prevent PLDT from holding its 2014 annual stockholders meeting. The temporary restraining order was denied and PLDT held its 2014 annual meeting on June 10, 2014 as scheduled.

On February 10, 2015, PLDT filed a consolidated memorandum setting forth its arguments against the petition.

The Supreme Court, in a Resolution dated June 14, 2016, granted the Omnibus Motion: (i) for Leave to Intervene; and (ii) to Admit Comment-in-Intervention, dated May 30, 2016, filed by counsel for Intervenor Shareholders Association of the Philippines, Inc., or Sharephil, noted the aforesaid Comment-in-Intervention, and required the adverse parties to file a Reply to the Comment-in-Intervention within a non-extendible period of 10 days from receipt thereof. On July 5, 2016, PLDT was furnished a copy of the Opposition and Reply to Interventions of the PSE and Sharephil dated June 30, 2016 and filed by Petitioner Jose M. Roy III.

As at November 14, 2016, the resolution of the petition remains pending with the Supreme Court.

Arbitration Cast between Smart and Harris Caprock Communications, Inc. (U.S.A.), or HCC, and Caprock Communications International Limited (United Kingdom), or CCI, together “Claimants”

In December 2011, Smart engaged the services of HCC and CCI for the expansion of its SmartLink GSM. Subsequently, the parties executed three Agreements: (1) Agreement for Bandwidth and Teleport Services with CCI, a wholly-owned subsidiary of HCC, dated May 21, 2012 (the “Bandwidth Agreement”);
(2) Agreement for Warehousing and Installation Services with CCI dated August 27, 2012 (the “Installation Agreement”); and (3) Agreement for the Sale and Purchase of Equipment with HCC dated September 27, 2012.

HCC failed to deliver the equipment in accordance with the delivery schedule and delivered defective equipment. Claimants also failed to activate Phase 1 of the satellite beams and installed only 13 units of antennas and beams. Thus, Smart issued a Termination Notice dated December 15, 2012 for all the three agreements. In their letter dated December 18, 2012, Claimants requested Smart to keep the contracts alive. Thus, Smart issued its commercial response on December 29, 2012. Claimants requested Smart to withdraw the termination notice; otherwise, they will claim damages, premised on their position that Smart cannot terminate the contracts for convenience. Smart did not withdraw the termination notice. The parties failed to reach an amicable settlement with Claimants claiming US$35 million in damages, while Smart wanted reimbursement of its deposit.

On October 19, 2016, a Singapore International Arbitration Centre — Arbitral Tribunal issued a Final Partial Award adjudging Smart liable to the Claimants in the amount of US$6.5 million, consisting of equipment delivered to Smart, liability to third parties, performance bond, monthly service fees, loss of profit, installation fees, and interest.

The Arbitral Award does not yet include costs. Based on their submission, Claimants demand payment of approximately US$1.6 million for costs which include legal fees, professional fees for experts, fees for party witnesses, and other expenses relating to the arbitration. Management is still evaluating available legal portions.

Other disclosures required by PAS 37 were not provided as it may prejudice our position in on-going claims, litigations and assessments. See Note 3 – Management’s Use of Accounting Judgments, Estimates and Assumptions – Provision for legal contingencies and tax assessments.

28. Financial Assets and Liabilities

We have various financial assets such as trade and non-trade receivables, cash and short-term deposits, which arise directly from our operations. Our principal financial liabilities, other than derivatives, comprise of bank loans and overdrafts, finance leases, trade and non-trade payables. The main purpose of these financial liabilities is to finance our operations. We also enter into derivative transactions, primarily principal only-currency swap agreements, currency options, interest rate swaps and forward foreign exchange contracts to manage the currency and interest rate risks arising from our operations and sources of financing. Our accounting policies in relation to derivatives are set out in Note 2 – Summary of Significant Accounting Policies – Financial Instruments.

The following table sets forth our consolidated financial assets and financial liabilities as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015:

                                                         
                                            Financial    
                    Financial           Available-for-sale   liabilities carried   Total financial
    Loans           instruments   Derivatives used   financial   at amortized   assets and
    and receivables   HTM investments   at FVPL   for hedging   investments   cost   liabilities
                            (in million pesos)                        
Assets as at September 30, 2016 (Unaudited)
                                               
Noncurrent:
                                                       
Available-for-sale financial investments
                            12,647             12,647  
Investment in debt securities and other long-term investments – net of current portion
    598       150                                748  
Derivative financial assets – net of current portion
                      270                    270  
Advances and other noncurrent assets – net of current portion
    9,148                                     9,148  
Current:
                                                       
Cash and cash equivalents
    26,395                                     26,395  
Short-term investments
    1,017             653                         1,670  
Trade and other receivables
    26,138                                     26,138  
Current portion of derivative financial assets
                116       82                    198  
Current portion of investment in debt securities and other long-term investments
          253                                253  
Current portion of advances and other noncurrent assets
    7,942                                     7,942  
Total assets
    71,238        403        769        352       12,647             85,409  
 
                                                       
Liabilities as at September 30, 2016 (Unaudited)
                                               
Noncurrent:
                                                       
Interest-bearing financial liabilities – net of current portion
                                  128,121       128,121  
Derivative financial liabilities – net of current portion
                      311                    311  
Customers’ deposits
                                  2,432       2,432  
Deferred credits and other noncurrent liabilities
                                  15,431       15,431  
Current:
                                                       
Accounts payable
                                  46,901       46,901  
Accrued expenses and other current liabilities
                                  82,216       82,216  
Current portion of interest-bearing financial liabilities
                                  32,761       32,761  
Dividends payable
                                  1,540       1,540  
Current portion of derivative financial liabilities
                335       148                    483  
Total liabilities
                 335        459             309,402       310,196  
 
                                                       
Net assets (liabilities)
    71,238        403        434       (107 )     12,647       (309,402 )     (224,787 )
 
                                                       
Assets as at December 31, 2015 (Audited)
                                                       
Noncurrent:
                                                       
Available-for-sale financial investments
                            15,711             15,711  
Investment in debt securities and other long-term investments – net of current portion
    595       357                                952  
Derivative financial assets – net of current portion
                      145                    145  
Advances and other noncurrent assets – net of current portion
    2,580                                     2,580  
Current:
                                                       
Cash and cash equivalents
    46,455                                     46,455  
Short-term investments
    744             685                         1,429  
Trade and other receivables
    26,138                                     26,138  
Current portion of derivative financial assets
                10       16                   26  
Current portion of investment in debt securities and other long-term investments
          51                               51  
Current portion of advances and other noncurrent assets
    7,936                                     7,936  
Total assets
    83,208        408        695        161       15,711             100,183  
 
                                                       
Liabilities as at December 31, 2015 (Audited)
                                               
Noncurrent:
                                                       
Interest-bearing financial liabilities – net of current portion
                                  143,982       143,982  
Derivative financial liabilities – net of current portion
                659       77                    736  
Customers’ deposits
                                  2,430       2,430  
Deferred credits and other noncurrent liabilities
                                  19,788       19,788  
Current:
                                                       
Accounts payable
                                  51,542       51,542  
Accrued expenses and other current liabilities
                                  66,844       66,844  
Current portion of interest-bearing financial liabilities
                                  16,911       16,911  
Dividends payable
                                  1,461       1,461  
Current portion of derivative financial liabilities
                22       284                    306  
Total liabilities
                 681        361             302,958       304,000  
 
                                                       
Net assets (liabilities)
    83,208        408       14       (200 )     15,711       (302,958 )     (203,817 )
 
                                                       

18

The following table sets forth our consolidated offsetting of financial assets and liabilities recognized as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015:

                         
            Gross amounts of    
            recognized    
            financial assets    
    Gross amounts   and liabilities   Net amount
    of recognized   set-off in the   presented in the
    financial assets   statement of   statement of
    and liabilities   financial position   financial position
            (in million pesos)        
September 30, 2016 (Unaudited)
                       
Noncurrent Financial Assets
                       
Derivative financial instruments
                       
Interest rate swap – net of current portion
    821       819       2  
Current Financial Assets
                       
Trade and other receivables
                       
Foreign administrations
    9,669       3,910       5,759  
Domestic carriers
    16,688       16,007        681  
Derivative financial instruments
                       
Current portion of interest rate swap
    379       360       19  
Total
    27,557       21,096       6,461  
 
                       
Noncurrent Financial Liabilities
                       
Derivative financial instruments
                       
Interest rate swap – net of current portion
    1,140       830        310  
Current Financial Liabilities
                       
Accounts payable
                       
Suppliers and contractors
    42,358       15       42,343  
Carriers and other customers
    6,617       2,501       4,116  
Derivative financial instruments
                       
Current portion of interest rate swap
    446       333        113  
 
                       
Total
    50,561       3,679       46,882  
 
                       
                         
            Gross amounts of    
            recognized    
            financial assets    
    Gross amounts of   and liabilities   Net amount
    recognized   set-off in the   presented in the
    financial assets   statement of   statement of
    and liabilities   financial position   financial position
            (in million pesos)        
December 31, 2015 (Audited)
                       
Noncurrent Financial Assets
                       
Derivative financial instruments
                       
Interest rate swap – net of current portion
    1,788       1,714       74  
Current Financial Assets
                       
Trade and other receivables
                       
Foreign administrations
    9,623       4,424       5,199  
Domestic carriers
    12,777       12,323        454  
Derivative financial instruments
                       
Current portion of interest rate swap
    327       311       16  
Total
    24,515       18,772       5,743  
 
                       
Noncurrent Financial Liabilities
                       
Derivative financial instruments
                       
Interest rate swap – net of current portion
    1,826       1,748       78  
Current Financial Liabilities
                       
Accounts payable
                       
Suppliers and contractors
    46,532       45       46,487  
Carriers and other customers
    9,109       6,095       3,014  
Derivative financial instruments
                       
Current portion of interest rate swap
    496       233        263  
 
                       
Total
    57,963       8,121       49,842  
 
                       

There are no financial instruments subject to an enforceable master netting arrangement as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015.

The following table sets forth our consolidated carrying values and estimated fair values of our financial assets and liabilities recognized as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015 other than those whose carrying amounts are reasonable approximations of fair values:

                                 
    Carrying Value   Fair Value
    September 30,           September 30,
    2016   December 31, 2015   2016   December 31, 2015
    (Unaudited)   (Audited)   (Unaudited)   (Audited)
            (in million pesos)        
Noncurrent Financial Assets
                               
Investment in debt securities and other long-term investments
    748       952       751       972  
Advances and other noncurrent assets
    9,148       2,580       7,855       2,305  
 
                               
Total
    9,896       3,532       8,606       3,277  
 
                               
Noncurrent Financial Liabilities
                               
Interest-bearing financial liabilities:
                               
Long-term debt
    128,120       143,982       131,649       145,731  
Obligations under finance leases
    1             1        
Customers’ deposits
    2,432       2,430       1,956       1,868  
Deferred credits and other noncurrent liabilities
    15,431       19,788       14,259       17,973  
 
                               
Total
    145,984       166,200       147,865       165,572  
 
                               

Below are the list of our consolidated financial assets and liabilities carried at fair value that are classified using a fair value hierarchy as required for our complete sets of consolidated financial statements as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015. This classification provides a reasonable basis to illustrate the nature and extent of risks associated with those financial statements.

                                                 
    September 30, 2016   December 31, 2015
    (Unaudited)   (Audited)
   Level 1(1)
  Level 2(2)   Total   Level 1(1)   Level 2(2)   Total
 
                                               
      (in million pesos)
               
Noncurrent Financial Assets
                                               
Available-for-sale financial investments – Listed equity securities
    10,629             10,629       14,695             14,695  
Derivative financial assets – net of current portion
          270        270             145        145  
Current Financial Assets
                                               
Short-term investments
          653        653             685        685  
Current portion of derivative financial assets
          198        198             26       26  
 
                                               
Total
    10,629       1,121       11,750       14,695        856       15,551  
 
                                               
Noncurrent Financial Liabilities
                                               
Derivative financial liabilities
          311        311             736        736  
Current Financial Liabilities
                                               
Derivative financial liabilities
          483        483             306        306  
 
                                               
Total
           794        794             1,042       1,042  
 
                                               

  (1)   Fair values determined using observable market inputs that reflect quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities.

  (2)   Fair values determined using inputs other than quoted market prices that are either directly or indirectly observable for the assets or liabilities.

As at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, we have no financial instruments measured at fair values using inputs that are not based on observable market data (Level 3). As at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, there were no transfers into and out of Level 3 fair value measurements.

As at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, there were no transfers between Level 1 and Level 2 fair value measurements.

The following methods and assumptions were used to estimate the fair value of each class of financial instrument for which it is practicable to estimate such value:

Long-term financial assets and liabilities:

Fair value is based on the following:

         
Type   Fair Value Assumptions   Fair Value Hierarchy
Noncurrent portion of advances and
other noncurrent assets
 
Estimated fair value is based on the discounted
values of future cash flows using the
applicable zero coupon rates plus
counterparties’ credit spread.
 


Level 3
   
 
   
Fixed Rate Loans:  

 
U.S. dollar notes  
Quoted market price.
  Level 1
   
 
   
Investment in debt securities  
Fair values were determined using quoted prices.
For non-quoted securities, fair values were
determined using discounted cash flow based on
market observable rates.
 

Level 1
Level 2
Other loans in all other currencies  
Estimated fair value is based on the discounted
value of future cash flows using the applicable
Commercial Interest Reference Rate and PDST-F
(valid until March 31, 2015) and PDST-R2*
(valid after March 31, 2015) rates for similar
types of loans plus PLDT’s credit spread.
 




Level 3
   
 
   
Variable Rate Loans  
The carrying value approximates fair value
because of recent and regular repricing based
on market conditions.
 

Level 2
   
 
   

  *   PDST-F was replaced by PDST-R2 on April 1, 2015 per BAP Memo dated January 8, 2015.

Derivative Financial Instruments:

Forward foreign exchange contracts, foreign currency swaps and interest rate swaps: The fair values were computed as the present value of estimated future cash flows using market U.S. dollar and Philippine peso interest rates as at valuation date.

The valuation techniques considered various inputs including the credit quality of counterparties.

Available-for-sale financial investments: Fair values of available-for-sale financial investments, which consist of listed shares, were determined using quoted prices. For investments where there is no active market and fair value cannot be determined, investments are carried at cost less any accumulated impairment losses.

Due to the short-term nature of the transactions, the fair value of cash and cash equivalents, short-term investments, trade and other receivables, accounts payable, accrued expenses and other current liabilities and dividends payable approximate their carrying values as at the end of the reporting period.

Derivative Financial Instruments

Our derivative financial instruments are accounted for as either cash flow hedges or transactions not designated as hedges. Cash flow hedges refer to those transactions that hedge our exposure to variability in cash flows attributable to a particular risk associated with a recognized financial asset or liability and exposures arising from forecast transactions. Changes in the fair value of these instruments representing effective hedges are recognized directly in other comprehensive income until the hedged item is recognized in our consolidated income statement. For transactions that are not designated as hedges, any gains or losses arising from the changes in fair value are recognized directly to income for the period.

As at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, we have taken into account the counterparties’ credit risks (for derivative assets) and our own non-performance risk (for derivative liabilities) and have included a credit or debit valuation adjustment, as appropriate, by assessing the maximum credit exposure and taking into account market-based inputs which considers the risk of default occurring and corresponding losses once the default event occurs. The changes in counterparty credit risk had no material effect on the hedge effectiveness assessment for derivatives designated in hedge relationships and other financial instruments recognized at fair value.

The table below sets out the information about our consolidated derivative financial instruments as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015:

                                                                                 
                                                    September 30, 2016   December 31, 2015
                                                    (Unaudited)   (Audited)
                       
Underlying
                  Weighted Average                           Net Mark-to-market
        Original Notional          
Transaction in
  Termination   Weighted Average   Foreign Exchange           Net Mark-to-market           Gains
        Amount   Trade Date  
U.S. Dollar
  Date   Hedge Cost   Rate in Php   Notional   Gains (Losses)   Notional   (Losses)
                       
 
                                                       
        (in millions)          
(in millions)
                                  (in millions)        
Transactions not designated as hedges:
PLDT
Long-term currency swaps   US$ 262     2001 and 2002  
300 Notes 2017
  March 6, 2017     3.42 %     49.85     US$ 202     (Php327)   US$ 202     (Php655)
Forward foreign exchange contracts           Various dates in  
U.S. dollar
  Various dates           46.97                   22       6  
                  2015    
liabilities
  in 2015 and 2016                                                
                Various dates in  
U.S. dollar
  Various dates in           46.79       19       5              
                  2016    
liabilities
    2016                                                  
          37     October 2016  
U.S. dollar
  November 29, 2016           48.52                          
                       
liabilities
                                                       
Smart
Forward foreign exchange contracts           March and May 2015  
200 Mizuho facility
  Various dates in           44.83                          
                       
 
    2015                                                  
                Various dates in  
U.S. dollar
  Various dates in           46.95                   13       4  
                  2015    
liabilities
  2015 and 2016                                                
                Various dates in  
U.S. dollar
  Various dates in           47.01       50       76              
                  2016    
liabilities
    2016                                                  
                August and  
U.S. dollar
  Various dates in           46.79       17       31              
                September 2016  
liabilities
    2017                                                  
          8     October and  
U.S. dollar
  January 2017           48.46                          
                November 2016  
liabilities
                                                       
Foreign exchange options     5(a)     August 10, 2016  
U.S. dollar
  November 14, 2016           46.82       5       4              
                       
liabilities
                    46.90                                  
                       
 
                    47.98                                  
          6(b)     October 2016  
U.S. dollar
  April 2017           47.96                          
                       
liabilities
                    48.75                                  
                       
 
                    49.75                                  
DMPI
Interest rate swaps     54     October 7, 2008  
59 loan facility
  March 30, 2017     3.88 %           3       (2 )     10       (14 )
          47     October 7, 2008  
51 loan facility
  June 30, 2017     3.97 %           6       (6 )     9       (12 )
                       
 
                                                       
                       
 
                                  (Php219)           (Php671)
                       
 
                                                       
Transactions designated as hedges:
PLDT
Interest rate swaps(c)     30     January 23, 2015  
150 term loan
  March 7, 2017     2.11 %         US$ 8     Php1   US$ 23     Php2
          240     2013 and 2015  
300 term loan
  January 16, 2018     2.17 %           100       12       167       10  
          100     August 2014  
100 PNB
  August 21, 2020     3.46 %           98       (169 )     99       (86 )
          50     September 2014  
50 MBTC
  September 2, 2020     3.47 %           49       (90 )     50       (47 )
          150     April and June  
200 term loan
  February 25, 2022     2.70 %           150       (100 )     150       (95 )
                  2015  
Long-term currency swaps(d)     140     October 2015 to  
300 term loan
  January 16, 2018     2.20 %     46.67       94       136       90       18  
                June 2016
Smart
Interest rate swaps(e)     45     May 8, 2013  
60 loan facility
  June 6, 2016     1.53 %                       7        
          38     May 9, 2013  
50 loan facility
  August 19, 2016     1.43 %                       13       1  
          44     May 16, 2013  
50 loan facility
  May 29, 2017     1.77 %           11       2       17       2  
          110     Various dates in  
120 loan facility
  June 20, 2018     2.22 %           60       2       75       6  
                2013 and 2014
          85     Various dates in  
100 loan facility
  March 7, 2019     2.23 %           49       (6 )     68       (9 )
                2014 and 2015
          50     October 2, 2014  
50 loan facility
  May 14, 2019     2.58 %           33       (12 )     39       (10 )
          200     Various dates in  
200 loan facility
  March 4, 2020     2.10 %           156       (30 )     200        
                  2015  
          30     February 2016  
100 loan facility
  December 7, 2021     2.03 %           30       (4 )            
Long-term currency swaps(f)     100     Various dates in  
200 loan facility
  March 5, 2018     2.21 %     46.66       60       92       100       7  
                  2015  
          45     Various dates in  
100 loan facility
  December 7, 2018     1.93 %     46.55       45       60              
                  2016  
                       
 
                                    (107 )             (200 )
                       
 
                                                       
                       
 
                                  (Php326)           (Php871)
                       
 
                                                       

  (a)   If the Philippine peso to U.S. dollar spot exchange rate on maturity date settles within Php46.90 to Php47.98, Smart will purchase the U.S. dollar at an exchange rate of Php46.90. On the other hand, if on maturity, the Philippine peso to U.S. dollar spot exchange rate settles beyond Php47.98, Smart will purchase U.S. dollar at an exchange rate of Php46.90 plus the excess above the agreed threshold rate. If on maturity, the Philippine peso to U.S. dollar spot exchange rate is lower than Php46.90, Smart will purchase at the prevailing Philippine peso to U.S. dollar spot exchange rate subject to a floor of Php46.82.

  (b)   If the Philippine peso to U.S. dollar spot exchange rate on maturity date settles within Php48.75 to Php49.75, Smart will purchase the U.S. dollar at an exchange rate of Php48.75. On the other hand, if on maturity, the Philippine peso to U.S. dollar spot exchange rate settles beyond Php49.75, Smart will purchase U.S. dollar at an exchange rate of Php48.75 plus the excess above the agreed threshold rate. If on maturity, the Philippine peso to U.S. dollar spot exchange rate is lower than Php48.75, Smart will purchase at the prevailing Philippine peso to U.S. dollar spot exchange rate subject to a floor of Php47.96.

  (c)   PLDT’s interest rate swap agreements outstanding as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015 were designated as cash flow hedges, wherein the effective portion of the movements in fair value is recognized in our consolidated statements of other comprehensive income, while any ineffective portion is recognized immediately in our consolidated income statements. The mark-to-market losses amounting to Php331 million and Php172 million were recognized in our consolidated statements of other comprehensive income as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively. Interest accrual on the interest rate swaps amounting to Php15 million and Php44 million were recorded as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively. There were no ineffective portion in the fair value recognized in our consolidated income statements for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015.

  (d)   PLDT’s long-term principal only-currency swap agreements entered into in 2015 and 2016 were designated as cash flow hedges, wherein effective portion of the movements in the fair value is recognized in our consolidated statements of other comprehensive income, while any ineffective portion is recognized immediately in our consolidated income statements. The mark-to-market gains amounting to Php157 million and Php18 million were recognized in our consolidated statements of other comprehensive income as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively. Hedge cost accrual on the long-term principal only-currency swaps amounting to Php21 million and nil were recognized as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively. The amounts recognized as other comprehensive income are transferred to profit or loss when the hedged loan is revalued for changes in the foreign exchange rate. The ineffective portion of the movements in the fair value amounting to Php6 million and nil were recognized in our consolidated income statements for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015, respectively.

  (e)   Smart’s interest swap agreements outstanding as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015 were designated as cash flow hedges, wherein the effective portion of the movements in fair value is recognized in our consolidated statements of other comprehensive income, while any ineffective portion is recognized immediately in our consolidated income statements. The mark-to-market loss amounting to Php44 million and mark-to-market gain amounting to Php14 million were recognized in our consolidated statements of other comprehensive income as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively. Interest accrual on the interest rate swaps amounting to Php4 million and Php24 million were recognized as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively. There were no ineffective portion in the fair value recognized in our consolidated income statements for the nine months ended September 30, 2015 and 2016.

  (f)   Smart’s long-term principal only-currency swap agreements outstanding as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015 were designated as cash flow hedges, wherein the effective portion of the movements in fair value is recognized in our consolidated statements of other comprehensive income, while any ineffective portion is recognized immediately in our consolidated income statements. The mark-to-market gains amounting to Php174 million and Php27 million were recognized in our consolidated statements of other comprehensive income as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively. Hedge cost accrual on the long-term principal only-currency swaps amounting to Php23 million and Php20 million were recognized as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively. The amounts recognized as other comprehensive income are transferred to profit or loss when the hedged loan is revalued for changes in the foreign exchange rate. The ineffective portion of the movements in the fair value amounting to Php5 million and nil were recognized in our consolidated income statements for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015, respectively.

                 
    September 30,   December 31,
    2016   2015
    (Unaudited)   (Audited)
    (in million pesos)
Presented as:
               
Noncurrent assets
    270       145  
Current assets
    198       26  
Noncurrent liabilities
    (311 )     (736 )
Current liabilities
    (483 )     (306 )
 
               
Net liabilities
    (326 )     (871 )
 
               

Movements of our consolidated mark-to-market losses for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and for the year ended December 31, 2015 are summarized as follows:

                 
    September 30,   December 31,
    2016   2015
    (Unaudited)   (Audited)
    (in million pesos)
Net mark-to-market losses at beginning of the period
    (871 )     (1,618 )
Gains on derivative financial instruments (Note 4)
    916       781  
Settlements, accretions and conversions
    274       320  
Reclassification of principal only-currency swaps from non-hedge to hedge
    (21 )      
Effective portion recognized in the profit or loss for the cash flow hedges
    (266 )     (359 )
Net fair value gains (losses) on cash flow hedges charged to other comprehensive income
    (358 )     5  
Net mark-to-market losses at end of the period
    (326 )     (871 )
 
               

Our consolidated analysis of gains on derivative financial instruments for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015 are as follows:

                 
    September 30,
    2016   2015
    (Unaudited)
    (in million pesos)
Hedge costs
    (405 )     (240 )
Gains on derivative financial instruments (Note 4)
    916       687  
 
               
Net gains on derivative financial instruments
     511        447  
 
               

Financial Risk Management Objectives and Policies

The main risks arising from our financial instruments are liquidity risk, foreign currency exchange risk, interest rate risk and credit risk. The importance of managing those risks has significantly increased in light of the considerable change and volatility in both the Philippine and international financial markets. Our Board of Directors reviews and approves policies for managing each of these risks. Our policies for managing these risks are summarized below. We also monitor the market price risk arising from all financial instruments.

Liquidity Risk

Our exposure to liquidity risk refers to the risk that our financial requirements, working capital requirements and planned capital expenditures are not met.

We manage our liquidity profile to be able to finance our operations and capital expenditures, service our maturing debts and meet our other financial obligations. To cover our financing requirements, we use internally generated funds and proceeds from debt and equity issues and sales of certain assets.

As part of our liquidity risk management program, we regularly evaluate our projected and actual cash flows, including our loan maturity profiles, and continuously assess conditions in the financial markets for opportunities to pursue fund-raising initiatives. These activities may include bank loans, export credit agency-guaranteed facilities, debt capital and equity market issues.

Any excess funds are primarily invested in short-term and principal-protected bank products that provide flexibility of withdrawing the funds anytime. We also allocate a portion of our cash in longer tenor investments such as fixed income securities issued or guaranteed by the Republic of the Philippines, and Philippine banks and corporates, managed funds and other structured products linked to the Republic of the Philippines. We regularly evaluate available financial products and monitor market conditions for opportunities to enhance yields at acceptable risk levels. Our investments are also subject to certain restrictions contained in our debt covenants. Our funding arrangements are designed to keep an appropriate balance between equity and debt and to provide financing flexibility while enhancing our businesses.

Our cash position remains sufficient to support our planned capital expenditure requirements and service our debt and financing obligations; however, we may be required to finance a portion of our future capital expenditures from external financing sources. We have cash and cash equivalents, and short-term investments amounting to Php26,395 million and Php1,670 million, respectively, as at September 30, 2016, which we can use to meet our short-term liquidity needs. See Note 16 – Cash and Cash Equivalents.

The following table discloses a summary of maturity profile of our financial assets based on our consolidated undiscounted claims outstanding as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015:

                                         
            Less than                   More than
    Total   1 year   1-3 years   3-5 years   5 years
                    (in million pesos)                
September 30, 2016 (Unaudited)
                                       
Loans and receivables:
    85,992       76,045       6,874       2,920        153  
Advances and other noncurrent assets
    17,291       7,942       6,276       2,920       153  
Cash equivalents
    19,760       19,760                    
Short-term investments
    1,017       1,017                    
Investment in debt securities and other long-term investments
     598             598              
Retail subscribers
    21,580       21,580                    
Corporate subscribers
    10,920       10,920                    
Foreign administrations
    5,995       5,995                    
Domestic carriers
     789       789                    
Dealers, agents and others
    8,042       8,042                    
HTM investments:
     403        253              150        
Investment in debt securities and other long-term investments
     403       253               150        
Financial instruments at FVPL:
     653        653                    
Short-term investments
     653       653                    
Available-for-sale financial investments
    12,647                         12,647  
 
                                       
Total
    99,695       76,951       6,874       3,070       12,800  
 
                                       
December 31, 2015 (Audited)
                                       
Loans and receivables:
    91,978       88,602       2,697        516        163  
Advances and other noncurrent assets
    10,717       7,936       2,102       516       163  
Cash equivalents
    39,103       39,103                    
Short-term investments
     744       744                    
Investment in debt securities and other long-term investments
     595             595              
Retail subscribers
    19,750       19,750                    
Corporate subscribers
    9,263       9,263                    
Foreign administrations
    5,514       5,514                    
Domestic carriers
     540       540                    
Dealers, agents and others
    5,752       5,752                    
HTM investments:
     408       51        207        150        
Investment in debt securities and other long-term investments
     408       51       207       150        
Financial instruments at FVPL:
     685        685                    
Short-term investments
     685       685                    
Available-for-sale financial investments
    15,711                         15,711  
 
                                       
Total
    108,782       89,338       2,904        666       15,874  
 
                                       

The following table discloses a summary of maturity profile of our financial liabilities based on our consolidated contractual undiscounted obligations outstanding as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015:

                                         
    Payments Due by Period
            Less than                   More than
    Total   1 year   1-3 years   3-5 years   5 years
                    (in million pesos)                
September 30, 2016 (Unaudited)
                                       
Debt(1):
    192,791       21,343       54,918       53,416       63,114  
Principal
    161,493       20,584       40,354       46,511       54,044  
Interest
    31,298       759       14,564       6,905       9,070  
Lease obligations:
    18,346       10,823       3,552       1,918       2,053  
Operating lease
    18,346       10,823       3,552       1,918       2,053  
Unconditional purchase obligations(2)
     132       24       48       49       11  
Other obligations:
    141,055       122,706       16,319        123       1,907  
Derivative financial liabilities(3):
     884        465        344       75        
Long-term currency swap
     444       444                    
Interest rate swap
     440       21       344       75        
Various trade and other obligations:
    140,171       122,241       15,975       48       1,907  
Suppliers and contractors
    57,308       42,343       14,965              
Utilities and related expenses
    41,110       41,043       67              
Liability from redemption of preferred shares
    7,887       7,887                    
Employee benefits
    7,121       7,121                    
Carriers and other customers
    2,630       2,630                    
Customers’ deposits
    2,432             477       48       1,907  
Dividends
    1,540       1,540                    
Others
    20,143       19,677       466              
 
                                       
Total contractual obligations
    352,324       154,896       74,837       55,506       67,085  
 
                                       
December 31, 2015 (Audited)
                                       
Debt(1):
    195,603       1,716       78,007       41,890       73,990  
Principal
    161,568       1,411       61,847       34,355       63,955  
Interest
    34,035       305       16,160       7,535       10,035  
Lease obligations:
    17,920       10,161       3,640       2,003       2,116  
Operating lease
    17,919       10,160       3,640       2,003       2,116  
Finance lease
    1       1                    
Unconditional purchase obligations(2)
     150       27       47       47       29  
Other obligations:
    139,148       110,874       23,378       3,012       1,884  
Derivative financial liabilities(3):
    6,067       10       6,050       7        
Long-term currency swap
    5,670             5,670              
Interest rate swap
     397       10       380       7        
Various trade and other obligations:
    133,081       110,864       17,328       3,005       1,884  
Suppliers and contractors
    66,229       46,487       16,788       2,954        
Utilities and related expenses
    38,155       38,155                    
Employee benefits
    6,262       6,262                    
Liability from redemption of preferred shares
    7,906       7,906                    
Carriers and other customers
    3,014       3,014                    
Customers’ deposits
    2,430             495       51       1,884  
Dividends
    1,461       1,461                    
Others
    7,624       7,579       45              
 
                                       
Total contractual obligations
    352,821       122,778       105,072       46,952       78,019  
 
                                       

  (1)   Consists of long-term debt, including current portion; gross of unamortized debt discount and debt issuance costs.

  (2)   Based on the Amended ATPA with AIL. See Note 25 – Related Party Transactions – Air Time Purchase Agreement between PLDT and AIL Related Party Agreements.

  (3)   Gross liabilities before any offsetting application.

     

Debt

See Note 21 – Interest-bearing Financial Liabilities – Long-term Debt for a detailed discussion of our debt.

Operating Lease Obligations

The PLDT Group has various lease contracts for periods ranging from one to ten years covering certain offices, warehouses, cell sites telecommunications equipment locations and various office equipment. These lease contracts are subject to certain escalation clauses.

The consolidated future minimum lease commitments payable with non-cancellable operating leases as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015 are as follows:

                 
    September 30,   December 31,
    2016   2015
    (Unaudited)   (Audited)
    (in million pesos)
Within one year
    10,995       10,318  
After one year but not more than five years
    5,298       5,485  
More than five years
    2,053       2,116  
 
               
Total
    18,346       17,919  
 
               

Finance Lease Obligations

See Note 21 – Interest-bearing Financial Liabilities – Obligations under Finance Leases for the detailed discussion of our long-term finance lease obligations.

Unconditional Purchase Obligations

See Note 25 – Related Party Transactions – Air Time Purchase Agreement between PLDT and AIL Related Agreements for a detailed discussion of PLDT’s obligation under the Original and the Amended ATPA.

Under the Amended ATPA, PLDT’s aggregate remaining minimum obligation is approximately Php132 million and Php150 million as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively.

Other Obligations – Various Trade and Other Obligations

PLDT Group has various obligations to suppliers for the acquisition of phone and network equipment, contractors for services rendered on various projects, foreign administrations and domestic carriers for the access charges, shareholders for unpaid dividends distributions, employees for benefits and other related obligations, and various business and operational related agreements. Total obligations under these various agreements amounted to approximately Php140,171 million and Php133,081 million as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively. See Note 23 – Accounts Payable and Note 24 – Accrued Expenses and Other Current Liabilities.

Commercial Commitments

Our outstanding consolidated commercial commitments, in the form of letters of credit, amounted to Php13,376 million and Php46 million as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively. These commitments will expire within one year. The amount as at September 30, 2016 includes standby letters of credit issued in relation with PLDT’s acquisition of the telecommunications business of SMC. See Note 10 – Investments in Associates and Joint Ventures – Investment of PLDT in VTI, Bow Arken and Brightshare.

Collateral

We have not made any pledges as collateral with respect to our financial liabilities as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015.

Foreign Currency Exchange Risk

Foreign currency exchange risk is the risk that the fair value of future cash flows of a financial instrument will fluctuate because of changes in foreign exchange rates.

The revaluation of our foreign currency-denominated financial assets and liabilities as a result of the appreciation or depreciation of the Philippine peso is recognized as foreign exchange gains or losses as at the end of the reporting period. The extent of foreign exchange gains or losses is largely dependent on the amount of foreign currency debt. While a certain percentage of our revenues are either linked to or denominated in U.S. dollars, a substantial portion of our indebtedness and related interest expense, a substantial portion of our capital expenditures and a portion of our operating expenses are denominated in foreign currencies, mostly in U.S. dollars. As such, a strengthening or weakening of the Philippine peso against the U.S. dollar will decrease or increase in Philippine peso terms both the principal amount of our foreign currency-denominated debts and the related interest expense, our foreign currency-denominated capital expenditures and operating expenses as well as our U.S. dollar-linked and U.S. dollar-denominated revenues. In addition, many of our financial ratios and other financial tests are affected by the movements in the Philippine peso to U.S. dollar exchange rate.

To manage our foreign exchange risks and to stabilize our cash flows in order to improve investment and cash flow planning, we enter into forward foreign exchange contracts, currency swap contracts, currency option contracts and other hedging products aimed at reducing and/or managing the adverse impact of changes in foreign exchange rates on our operating results and cash flows. We use forward foreign exchange purchase contracts, currency swap contracts and currency option contracts to manage the foreign currency risks associated with our foreign currency-denominated loans. We accounted for these instruments as either cash flow hedges, wherein changes in the fair value are recognized in our consolidated other comprehensive income until the hedged transaction affects our consolidated income statement or transactions not designated as hedges, wherein changes in the fair value are recognized directly as income or expense for the period.

The following table shows our consolidated foreign currency-denominated monetary financial assets and liabilities and their Philippine peso equivalents as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015:

                                 
    September 30, 2016   December 31, 2015
    (Unaudited)   (Audited)
   U.S. Dollar
  Php(1)   U.S. Dollar   Php(2)
 
                               
      (in millions)
       
Noncurrent Financial Assets
                               
Investment in debt securities and other long-term investments
    12       599       26       1,206  
Derivative financial assets – net of current portion
    6       270       3       145  
Advances and other noncurrent assets – net of current portion
          18             16  
 
                               
Total noncurrent financial assets
    18        887       29       1,367  
 
                               
Current Financial Assets
                               
Cash and cash equivalents
    304       14,742       379       17,874  
Short-term investments
    34       1,652       24       1,156  
Trade and other receivables – net
    119       5,770       142       6,690  
Current portion of derivative financial assets
    4       198       1       26  
Current portion of advances and other noncurrent assets
          31             19  
 
                               
Total current financial assets
     461       22,393        546       25,765  
 
                               
Total Financial Assets
     479       23,280        575       27,132  
 
                               
Noncurrent Financial Liabilities
                               
Interest-bearing financial liabilities – net of current portion
    724       35,092       1,104       52,040  
Derivative financial liabilities – net of current portion
    7       311       16       736  
Other noncurrent liabilities
          6             6  
 
                               
Total noncurrent financial liabilities
     731       35,409       1,120       52,782  
 
                               
Current Financial Liabilities
                               
Accounts payable
    200       9,706       99       4,685  
Accrued expenses and other current liabilities
    164       7,936       153       7,216  
Current portion of interest-bearing financial liabilities
    503       24,397       341       16,058  
Current portion of derivative financial liabilities
    10       483       7       306  
 
                               
Total current financial liabilities
     877       42,522        600       28,265  
 
                               
Total Financial Liabilities
    1,608       77,931       1,720       81,047  
 
                               

  (1)   The exchange rate used to convert the U.S. dollar amounts into Philippine peso was Php48.48 to US$1.00, the Philippine peso-U.S. dollar exchange rate as quoted through the Philippine Dealing System as at September 30, 2016.

  (2)   The exchange rate used to convert the U.S. dollar amounts into Philippine peso was Php47.12 to US$1.00, the Philippine peso-U.S. dollar exchange rate as quoted through the Philippine Dealing System as at December 31, 2015.

As at November 11, 2016, the Philippine peso-U.S. dollar exchange rate was Php48.91 to US$1.00. Using this exchange rate, our consolidated net foreign currency-denominated financial liabilities would have increased in Philippine peso terms by Php485 million as at September 30, 2016.

Approximately 37% and 42% of our total consolidated debts (net of consolidated debt discount) were denominated in U.S. dollars as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively. Consolidated foreign currency-denominated debt decreased to Php59,138 million as at September 30, 2016 from Php67,620 million as at December 31, 2015. See Note 21 – Interest-bearing Financial Liabilities. The aggregate notional amount of our consolidated outstanding long-term principal only-currency swap contracts were US$401 million and US$392 million as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively. Consequently, the unhedged portion of our consolidated debt amounts was approximately 22% (or 11%, net of our consolidated U.S. dollar cash balances) and 30% (or 17%, net of our consolidated U.S. dollar cash balances) as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively.

Approximately, 16% of our consolidated service revenues were denominated in U.S. dollars and/or were linked to U.S. dollars for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 as compared with approximately 18% for the nine months ended September 30, 2015. Approximately, 9% of our consolidated expenses were denominated in U.S. dollars and/or linked to the U.S. dollar for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 as compared with approximately 10% for the nine months ended September 30, 2015. In this respect, the higher weighted average exchange rate of the Philippine peso against the U.S. dollar increased our revenues and expenses, and consequently, affects our cash flow from operations in Philippine peso terms. In view of the anticipated continued decline in dollar-denominated/dollar-linked revenues, which provide a natural hedge against our foreign currency exposure, we are progressively refinancing our dollar-denominated debts in Philippine pesos.

The Philippine peso depreciated by 2.89% against the U.S. dollar to Php48.48 to US$1.00 as at September 30, 2016 from Php47.12 to US$1.00 as at December 31, 2015. As a result of our consolidated foreign exchange movements, as well as the amount of our consolidated outstanding net foreign currency financial assets and liabilities, we recognized net consolidated foreign exchange losses of Php1,434 million and Php2,523 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015, respectively.

Management conducted a survey among our banks to determine the outlook of the Philippine peso-U.S. dollar exchange rate until December 31, 2016. Our outlook is that the Philippine peso-U.S. dollar exchange rate may weaken/strengthen by 0.55% as compared to the exchange rate of Php48.48 to US$1.00 as at September 30, 2016. If the Philippine peso-U.S. dollar exchange rate had weakened/strengthened by 0.55% as at September 30, 2016, with all other variables held constant, profit after tax for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 would have been approximately Php84 million lower/higher and our consolidated stockholders’ equity as at September 30, 2016 would have been approximately Php145 million lower/higher, mainly as a result of consolidated foreign exchange gains and losses on conversion of U.S. dollar-denominated net assets/liabilities and mark-to-market valuation of derivative financial instruments.

Interest Rate Risk

Interest rate risk is the risk that the fair value or future cash flows of a financial instrument will fluctuate because of change in market interest rates.

Our exposure to the risk of changes in market interest rates relates primarily to our long-term debt obligations and short-term borrowings with floating interest rates.

Our policy is to manage interest cost through a mix of fixed and variable rate debts. We evaluate the fixed to floating ratio of our loans in line with movements of relevant interest rates in the financial markets. Based on our assessment, new financing will be priced either on a fixed or floating rate basis. We enter into interest rate swap agreements in order to manage our exposure to interest rate fluctuations. We make use of hedging instruments and structures solely for reducing or managing financial risk associated with our liabilities and not for trading purposes.

The following tables set out the carrying amounts, by maturity, of our financial instruments that are expected to have exposure on interest rate risk as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015. Financial instruments that are not subject to interest rate risk were not included in the table.

As at September 30, 2016 (Unaudited)

                                                                                             
                                                                Discount/    
                                                                Debt Issuance Cost   Carrying Value
    In U.S. Dollars           In Php   In Php   Fair Value
                                                                                In U.S.    
    Below 1 year   1-2 years   2-3 years   3-5 years   Over 5 years   Total   In Php                   Dollar   In Php
                                                                (in millions)
Assets:                                                                                    
Investment in Debt Securities and Other Long-term Investments                                                                                    
U.S. Dollar       10       2                   12       598              598       12       597  
Interest rate     4.0000% to 10.0000%     3.5000 %                                                
Philippine Peso   5                 3             8       403              403       8       407  
Interest rate   4.2180% to 4.2500%                 4.8400 %                                          
Cash in Bank                                                                                    
U.S. Dollar   27                             27       1,302             1,302       27       1,302  
Interest rate   0.0100% to 0.5000%                                                            
Philippine Peso   91                             91       4,407             4,407       91       4,407  
Interest rate   0.0010% to 1.6250%                                                            
Other Currencies                                     15             15             15  
Interest rate   0.0100% to 0.5000%                                                            
Temporary Cash Investments
                                                                               
U.S. Dollar   273                              273       13,208             13,208        273       13,208  
Interest rate   0.2500% to 4.7500%                                                            
Philippine Peso   135                              135       6,552             6,552        135       6,552  
Interest rate   0.1250% to 5.000%                                                            
Short-term
Investments
                                                                                   
U.S. Dollar   34                             34       1,670             1,670       34       1,670  
Interest rate   1.7500% to 3.3900%                                                            
                                                                                     
                                                                                     
     565     10       2       3              580       28,155             28,155        580       28,158  
                                                                                     
                                                                                     
Liabilities:                                                                                    
Long-term Debt                                                                                    
Fixed Rate                                                                                    
U.S. Dollar Notes
    228                                228       11,073       11       11,062       235       11,406  
Interest rate   8.3500%                                                            
U.S. Dollar Fixed Loans   3     49       11       15       4       82       3,961       25       3,936       84       4,081  
Interest rate   1.9000%   1.4100% to 2.8850%   1.4100% to 2.8850%     2.8850 %     2.8850 %                                    
Philippine Peso   157     37       150       537       1,051       1,932       93,673       241       93,432       1,983       96,137  
Interest rate   5.2854% to 5.5808%   4.0000% to 6.2600%   4.0000% to 6.2600%   4.0000% to 6.2600%   4.0000% to 6.2600%                                    
Variable Rate                                                                                    
U.S. Dollar   37     474       106       240       60        917       44,456       316       44,140       917       44,456  
Interest rate   0.3000% to 1.4600% over LIBOR   0.7900% to 1.6000% over LIBOR   0.7900% to 1.4500% over LIBOR   0.7900% to 1.4500% over LIBOR   0.7900% to 1.0500% over LIBOR                                    
Philippine Peso       3       2       167              172       8,330       19       8,311       172       8,330  
Interest rate     BSP overnight rate less 0.3500% to 1.0000% over PDST-R2   BSP overnight rate less 0.3500% to 1.0000% over PDST-R2   BSP overnight rate less 0.3500% to 1.0000% over PDST-R2                                          
                                                                                     
     425      563        269        959       1,115       3,331       161,493        612       160,881       3,391       164,410  
                                                                                     

As at December 31, 2015 (Audited)

                                                                                         
                                                            Discount/    
                                                            Debt Issuance Cost   Carrying Value
    In U.S. Dollars           In Php   In Php   Fair Value
                                                                            In U.S.    
    Below 1 year   1-2 years   2-3 years   3-5 years   Over 5 years   Total   In Php                   Dollar   In Php
                                                            (in millions)
Assets:                                                                                    
Investment in Debt Securities and Other Long-term Investments                                                                                    
U.S. Dollar       11       2                   13       596              596       13       605  
Interest rate     4.0000% to 10.0000%     3.5000 %                                                
Philippine Peso       5             3             8       407              407       9       418  
Interest rate       4.2500 %           4.8400 %                                          
Cash in Bank                                                                                    
U.S. Dollar   35                             35       1,651             1,651       35       1,651  
Interest rate   0.0100% to 1.0000%                                                            
Philippine Peso   82                             82       3,880             3,880       82       3,880  
Interest rate   0.0010% to 2.0000%                                                            
Other Currencies   1                             1       24             24       1       24  
Interest rate   0.0100% to 0.5000%                                                            
Temporary Cash Investments
                                                                               
U.S. Dollar   315                              315       14,829             14,829        315       14,829  
Interest rate   0.2500% to 4.7500%                                                            
Philippine Peso   515                              515       24,274             24,274        515       24,274  
Interest rate   0.2500% to 4.6875%                                                            
Short-term
Investments
                                                                                   
U.S. Dollar   24                             24       1,156             1,156       24       1,156  
Interest rate   2.1622% to 3.9940%                                                            
Philippine Peso   6                             6       273              273       6        273  
Interest rate   1.5000%                                                            
                                                                                     
     978     16       2       3              999       47,090             47,090       1,000       47,110  
                                                                                     
                                                                                     
Liabilities:                                                                                    
Long-term Debt                                                                                    
Fixed Rate                                                                                    
U.S. Dollar Notes
      228                          228       10,761       29       10,732       247       11,617  
Interest rate       8.3500 %                                                      
U.S. Dollar Fixed Loans   5     51       42       17       11        126       5,945       41       5,904       134       6,298  
Interest rate   1.9000%   1.4100% to 3.9550%   1.4100% to 3.9550%   1.4100% to 3.9550%     2.8850 %                                    
Philippine Peso       205       21       337       1,243       1,806       85,100       171       84,929       1,803       84,965  
Interest rate     4.4850% to 6.2600%   4.4850% to 6.2600%   4.4850% to 6.2600%   4.5500% to 6.2600%                                    
Variable Rate                                                                                    
U.S. Dollar   25     542       217       273       34       1,091       51,397       413       50,984       1,091       51,396  
Interest rate   0.8500% to 1.0000% over LIBOR   0.3000% to 1.8000% over LIBOR   0.7900% to 1.8000% over LIBOR   0.7900% to 1.4500% over LIBOR   0.9500% over LIBOR                                    
Philippine Peso       4       2       102       70        178       8,365       22       8,343       177       8,365  
Interest rate     BSP overnight rate - 0.3500% to BSP overnight rate   BSP overnight rate - 0.3500% to BSP overnight rate   BSP overnight rate - 0.3500% to BSP overnight rate   BSP overnight rate - 0.3500% to BSP overnight rate                                    
                                                                                     
    30     1,030        282        729       1,358       3,429       161,568        676       160,892       3,452       162,641  
                                                                                     

Fixed rate financial instruments are subject to fair value interest rate risk while floating rate financial instruments are subject to cash flow interest rate risk.

Repricing of floating rate financial instruments is mostly done on intervals of three months or six months. Interest on fixed rate financial instruments is fixed until maturity of the particular instrument.

Management conducted a survey among our banks to determine the outlook of the U.S. dollar and Philippine peso interest rates until December 31, 2016. Our outlook is that the U.S. dollar and Philippine peso interest rates may move 15 basis points, or bps, and 30 bps higher/lower, respectively, as compared to levels as at September 30, 2016. If U.S. dollar interest rates had been 15 bps higher/lower as compared to market levels as at September 30, 2016, with all other variables held constant, profit after tax for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and our consolidated stockholders’ equity as at September 30, 2016 would have been approximately Php27 million and Php17 million, respectively, lower/higher, mainly as a result of higher/lower interest expense on floating rate borrowings and loss/gain on derivative transactions. If Philippine peso interest rates had been 30 bps higher/lower as compared to market levels as at September 30, 2016, with all other variables held constant, profit after tax for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and our consolidated stockholders’ equity as at September 30, 2016 would have been approximately Php9 million and Php15 million, respectively, lower/higher, mainly as a result of higher/lower interest expense on floating rate borrowings and loss/gain on derivative transactions.

Credit Risk

Credit risk is the risk that we will incur a loss arising from our customers, clients or counterparties that fail to discharge their contracted obligations. We manage and control credit risk by setting limits on the amount of risk we are willing to accept for individual counterparties and by monitoring exposures in relation to such limits.

We trade only with recognized and creditworthy third parties. It is our policy that all customers who wish to trade on credit terms are subject to credit verification procedures. In addition, receivable balances are monitored on an on-going basis to reduce our exposure to bad debts.

We established a credit quality review process to provide regular identification of changes in the creditworthiness of counterparties. Counterparty limits are established and reviewed periodically based on latest available financial data on our counterparties’ credit ratings, capitalization, asset quality and liquidity. Our credit quality review process allows us to assess the potential loss as a result of the risks to which we are exposed and allow us to take corrective actions.

The table below shows the maximum exposure to credit risk for the components of our consolidated statements of financial position, including derivative financial instruments as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015:

                         
    September 30, 2016 (Unaudited)
            Collateral and    
    Gross   Other Credit   Net
    Maximum Exposure   Enhancements*   Maximum Exposure
    (in million pesos)
Loans and receivables:
 
 
 
Advances and other noncurrent assets
    17,090             17,090  
Cash and cash equivalents
    26,395       198       26,197  
Short-term investments
    1,017             1,017  
Investment in debt securities and other long-term investments
    598              598  
Retail subscribers
    7,185       47       7,138  
Corporate subscribers
    6,057       183       5,874  
Foreign administrations
    5,759             5,759  
Domestic carriers
    681              681  
Dealers, agents and others
    6,456             6,456  
HTM investments:
 
 
 
Investment in debt securities and other long-term investments
    403              403  
Financial instruments at FVPL:
 
 
 
Short-term investments
    653              653  
Forward foreign exchange contracts
    116              116  
Available-for-sale financial investments
    12,647             12,647  
Derivatives used for hedging:
 
 
 
Long-term currency swap
    331              331  
Interest rate swap
    21             21  
 
                       
Total
    85,409        428       84,981  
 
                       

  *   Includes bank insurance, security deposits and customer deposits. We have no collateral held as at September 30, 2016.

                         
    December 31, 2015 (Audited)
            Collateral and    
    Gross   Other Credit   Net
    Maximum Exposure   Enhancements*   Maximum Exposure
    (in million pesos)
Loans and receivables:
                       
Advances and other noncurrent assets
    10,516             10,516  
Cash and cash equivalents
    46,455       272       46,183  
Short-term investments
    744              744  
Investment in debt securities and other long-term investments
    595              595  
Retail subscribers
    10,210       46       10,164  
Foreign administrations
    5,199             5,199  
Corporate subscribers
    4,812       160       4,652  
Domestic carriers
    454              454  
Dealers, agents and others
    4,223       2       4,221  
HTM investments:
                       
Investment in debt securities and other long-term investments
    408              408  
Financial instruments at FVPL:
                       
Short-term investments
    685              685  
Forward foreign exchange contracts
    10             10  
Available-for-sale financial investments
    15,711             15,711  
Derivatives used for hedging:
                       
Interest rate swap
    90             90  
Long-term currency swap
    71             71  
 
                       
Total
    100,183        480       99,703  
 
                       

  *   Includes bank insurance, security deposits and customer deposits. We have no collateral held as at December 31, 2015.

The table below provides information regarding the credit quality by class of our financial assets according to our credit ratings of counterparties as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015:

                                                 
            Neither past due            
            nor impaired   Past due but        
    Total   Class A(1)   Class B(2)   not impaired Impaired
                    (in million pesos)                
September 30, 2016 (Unaudited)
                                               
Loans and receivables:
    92,627       48,250               9,619       13,369       21,389  
Advances and other noncurrent assets
    17,291       15,331               1,756       3       201  
Cash and cash equivalents
    26,395       24,115               2,280              
Short-term investments
    1,017       1,017                            
Investment in debt securities and other long-term investments
     598       598                            
Retail subscribers
    21,580       1,975               2,772       2,438       14,395  
Corporate subscribers
    10,920       874               1,233       3,950       4,863  
Foreign administrations
    5,995       792               1,295       3,672       236  
Domestic carriers
     789       317               56       308       108  
Dealers, agents and others
    8,042       3,231               227       2,998       1,586  
HTM investments:
     403        403                            
Investment in debt securities and other long-term investments
     403       403                            
Financial instruments at FVPL(3):
     769        769                            
Short-term investments
     653       653                            
Forward exchange contracts
     116       116                            
Available-for-sale financial investments
    12,647       10,654               1,993              
Derivatives used for hedging:
     352        352                            
Long-term currency swap
     331       331                            
Interest rate swaps
    21       21                            
Total
    106,798       60,428               11,612       13,369       21,389  
                                     
December 31, 2015 (Audited)
                                               
Loans and receivables:
  99,330   57,471           12,033   13,704   16,122
Advances and other noncurrent assets
    10,717       10,204               307       5       201  
Cash and cash equivalents
  46,455   41,509             4,946              
Short-term investments
     744       744                            
Investment in debt securities and other long-term investments
     595       595                            
Retail subscribers
    19,750       1,549               3,449       5,212       9,540  
Corporate subscribers
    9,263       1,162               1,316       2,334       4,451  
Foreign administrations
    5,514       933               1,744       2,522       315  
Domestic carriers
     540       88               100       266       86  
Dealers, agents and others
    5,752       687               171       3,365       1,529  
HTM investments:
     408        408                            
Investment in debt securities and other long-term investments
     408       408                            
Available-for-sale financial investments
    15,711       14,721               990              
Financial instruments at FVPL(3):
     695        695                            
Short-term investments
     685       685                            
Forward foreign exchange contracts
    10       10                                  
Derivatives used for hedging:
     161        161                            
Interest rate swaps
    90       90                            
Long-term currency swap
    71       71                                  
 
                                               
Total
    116,305       73,456               13,023       13,704       16,122  
                                     

  (1)   This includes low risk and good paying customer accounts with no history of account treatment for a defined period and no overdue accounts as at report date; and deposits or placements to counterparties with good credit rating or bank standing financial review.

  (2)   This includes medium risk and average paying customer accounts with no overdue accounts as at report date, and new customer accounts for which sufficient credit history has not been established; and deposits or placements to counterparties not classified as Class A.

  (3)   Gross receivables from counterparties, before any offsetting arrangements.

The aging analysis of past due but not impaired class of financial assets as at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015 are as follows:

                                                         
                                Past due but not impaired    
                        Neither past due                
        Total   nor impaired   1-60 days   61-90 days   Over 91 days   Impaired
        (in million pesos)
September 30, 2016 (Unaudited)                                            
Loans and receivables:   92,627     57,869       4,473       1,536       7,360       21,389  
Advances and other noncurrent assets   17,291     17,087                   3       201  
Cash and cash equivalents   26,395     26,395                          
Short-term investments   1,017     1,017                          
Investment in debt securities and other long-term investments    598     598                          
Retail subscribers   21,580     4,747       1,649       146       643       14,395  
Corporate subscribers   10,920     2,107       1,307       446       2,197       4,863  
Foreign administrations   5,995     2,087       622       462       2,588       236  
Domestic carriers    789     373       81       48       179       108  
Dealers, agents and others   8,042     3,458       814       434       1,750       1,586  
HTM investments:    403      403                          
Investment in debt securities and other long-term investments    403     403                          
Financial instruments at FVPL:    769      769                          
Short-term investments    653     653                          
Forward foreign exchange contracts
     116       116                          
Available-for-sale financial investments   12,647     12,647                          
Derivatives used for hedging:    352      352                          
Long-term currency swap    331     331                          
Interest rate swaps   21     21                          
                                             
Total   106,798     72,040       4,473       1,536       7,360       21,389  
                                             
                                             
December 31, 2015 (Audited)                                            
Loans and receivables:   99,330     69,504       5,436       1,306       6,962       16,122  
Advances and other noncurrent assets   10,717     10,511                   5       201  
Cash and cash equivalents   46,455     46,455                          
Short-term investments    744     744                          
Investment in debt securities and other long-term investments    595     595                          
Retail subscribers   19,750     4,998       2,064       499       2,649       9,540  
Foreign administrations   5,514     2,677       314       290       1,918       315  
Corporate subscribers   9,263     2,478       1,165       335       834       4,451  
Domestic carriers    540     188       63       62       141       86  
Dealers, agents and others   5,752     858       1,830       120       1,415       1,529  
HTM investments:    408      408                          
Investment in debt securities and other long-term investments    408     408                          
Available-for-sale financial investments   15,711     15,711                          
Financial instruments at FVPL:    695      695                          
Short-term investments    685     685                          
Forward foreign exchange contracts   10     10                                  
Derivatives used for hedging:    161      161                          
Interest rate swaps   90     90                          
Long-term currency swap   71     71                                  
                                             
Total   116,305     86,479       5,436       1,306       6,962       16,122  
                                             

Impairment Assessments

The main consideration for the impairment assessment include whether any payments of principal or interest are overdue by more than 90 days or whether there are any known difficulties in the cash flows of counterparties, credit rating downgrades, or infringement of the original terms of the contract. Our impairment assessments are classified into two areas: individually assessed allowance and collectively assessed allowances.

Individually assessed allowance

We determine the allowance appropriate for each individually significant loan or advance on an individual basis. Items considered when determining allowance amounts include the sustainability of the counterparty’s business plan, its ability to improve performance once a financial difficulty has arisen, projected receipts and the expected dividend payout should bankruptcy ensue, the availability of other financial support, the realizable value of collateral, if any, and the timing of the expected cash flows. We also recognize an impairment for accounts specifically identified to be doubtful of collection when there is information on financial incapacity after considering the other contractual obligations between us and the subscriber. The impairment losses are evaluated at each reporting date, unless unforeseen circumstances require more careful attention.

Collectively assessed allowances

Allowances are assessed collectively for losses on loans and advances that are not individually significant and for individually significant loans and advances where there is no objective evidence of individual impairment. Allowances are evaluated on each reporting date with each portfolio receiving a separate review.

The collective assessment takes account of impairment that is likely to be present in the portfolio even though there is no objective evidence of the impairment in an individual assessment. Impairment losses are estimated by taking into consideration the following information: historical losses on the portfolio, current economic conditions, the approximate delay between the time a loss is likely to have been incurred and the time it is identified as requiring an individually assessed impairment allowance, and expected receipts and recoveries once impaired. The impairment allowance is then reviewed by credit management to ensure alignment with our policy.

Capital Management Risk

We aim to achieve an optimal capital structure in pursuit of our business objectives which include maintaining healthy capital ratios and strong credit ratings, and maximizing shareholder value.

In recent years, our cash flow from operations has allowed us to substantially reduce debts and, in 2005, resume payment of dividends on common shares. Since 2005, our strong cash flow has enabled us to make investments in new areas and pay higher dividends.

Our approach to capital management focuses on balancing the allocation of cash and the incurrence of debt as we seek new investment opportunities for new businesses and growth areas. On August 5, 2014, the PLDT Board of Directors approved an amendment to our dividend policy, increasing the dividend payout rate to 75% from 70% of our core EPS as regular dividends.  In declaring dividends, we take into consideration the interest of our shareholders, as well as our working capital, capital expenditures and debt servicing requirements. The retention of earnings may be necessary to meet the funding requirements of our business expansion and development programs.

However, in view of our current elevated capital expenditures to build-out a robust, superior network to support the continued growth of data traffic, plans to invest in new adjacent businesses that will complement the current business and provide future sources of profits and dividends, and management of our cash and gearing levels, the PLDT Board of Directors approved on August 2, 2016, the amendment of our dividend policy, reducing the regular dividend payout to 60% of core EPS.  As part of the dividend policy, in the event no investment opportunities arise, we may consider the option of returning additional cash to our shareholders in the form of special dividends or share buybacks. Philippine corporate regulations prescribe, however, that we can only pay out dividends or make capital distribution up to the amount of our unrestricted retained earnings.

Some of our debt instruments contain covenants that impose maximum leverage ratios. In addition, our credit ratings from the international credit ratings agencies are based on our ability to remain within certain leverage ratios.

No changes were made in our objectives, policies or processes for managing capital during the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015.

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