BIZ BUZZ: Tech wiz to fuel telco to ‘techco’ shift

Converge ICT is betting big on a young tech executive as it sets new targets beyond telecommunications.

All eyes are on Paulo Martin Santos, a 36-year-old digital transformation expert with a rich track record of leading network modernization efforts not just in telco but also in the banking sector.

After serving as the group’s chief network transformation officer since 2022, Santos—the youngest among Converge’s executive leadership—now holds the position of chief technology officer.

During his previous post, Santos beefed up the telco’s operations with artificial intelligence and automated troubleshooting, a revamp that Converge said had resulted in “tremendous efficiencies in the network process.”

Capitalizing on his tech expertise and digital solutions, Santos is “now tasked to spearhead technology initiatives with particular focus on the enterprise and/or global business,” Converge said.

For the new role, Santos is expected to focus on exploring more emerging technologies that could be a game changer for Converge’s broadband services and tech initiatives, particularly as the firm gears up to become not just a telco but a “techco.”

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Before joining Converge, Santos, an alumnus of the University of the Philippines-Diliman, was also a key player in transforming UnionBank into a cloud-ready software-defined network. He was also a crucial mind behind the lender’s first 5G-enabled Bank on Wheels.

Not only that, Santos founded WiFi Nation PH, a startup offering wireless connectivity solutions. Seeing a potential, PLDT’s wireless arm Smart Communications later acquired this.

Previously leading PLDT’s digital transformation unit, Santos also helped digitize corporate operations and customer experience across the Pangilinan-led group.