As Philippine businesses move deeper into cloud adoption, cybersecurity priorities, and AI-powered operations, the role of trusted technology partners has never been more critical. In this fast-changing digital environment, Eastern Communications has taken a major step forward by earning recognition as a Cisco Preferred Networking Partner, placing it among the first in the country to receive this designation ahead of Cisco’s global program rollout.
This recognition comes under the upcoming Cisco 360 Partner Program, which officially launches worldwide in January 2026. Being awarded Preferred Partner status early signals that Eastern Communications is not only aligned with Cisco’s future vision, but is already operating at the level required for the next phase of enterprise technology.
What the Cisco Preferred Partner Status Really Means
The Cisco 360 Partner Program represents one of Cisco’s biggest partner transformations in over two decades. The updated framework shifts focus from traditional product-based metrics to long-term value creation. Partners are now evaluated based on technical expertise, customer lifecycle management, service delivery, and their ability to help clients grow sustainably in an AI-driven economy.
Under this model, Cisco Preferred Partners are organizations that have demonstrated advanced technical skills, strong customer engagement practices, and mature lifecycle services. Eastern Communications’ inclusion in this group reflects years of investment in both technology and people.
For local enterprises, this designation translates to better outcomes. It means access to faster deployments, stronger cybersecurity foundations, and solutions designed for scalability and resilience. More importantly, it ensures that businesses are supported by a partner with deeper access to Cisco’s expertise and AI-ready network architectures.
A Milestone Built on Innovation and Consistency
For Eastern Communications, the recognition validates the strategic direction of its product and service roadmap.
“On behalf of Eastern, we are incredibly proud of our entire team's relentless drive for innovation,” said Edsel Paglinawan, Chief Revenue and Innovation Officer of Eastern Communications. “This recognition and new designation as Cisco’s Preferred Networking Partner signifies a validation of the quality and strategic relevance of our product roadmap, positioning us to deliver even more advanced, high-impact solutions to our customers.”
Earning the designation before the formal program rollout highlights Eastern Communications’ readiness for what lies ahead. It shows that the company is not preparing for the future of enterprise technology. It is already working within it.
Years of Collaboration with Cisco
Eastern Communications’ early elevation did not happen overnight. It is the result of sustained collaboration with Cisco since 2020, alongside continuous investment in workforce development, service maturity, and innovation-led solutions.
Over the years, this partnership has produced tangible results. Eastern Communications has been recognized as Cisco’s Top Small Business Partner of the Year in 2021 and later as Breakthrough Partner of the Year in 2024. These milestones reflect the company’s consistent performance across networking, cloud, cybersecurity, and managed connectivity solutions.
By strengthening its lifecycle services and deepening technical capabilities, Eastern Communications has positioned itself as a dependable partner for organizations navigating complex digital requirements.
Supporting Businesses Beyond Technology
Beyond commercial success, Eastern Communications has also focused on empowering the local business community. Through its thought leadership initiative, Access Eastern, the company provides organizations with insights on digital transformation, AI adoption, and evolving security challenges.
This approach reinforces Eastern Communications’ belief that technology should be paired with guidance and education. For many Philippine enterprises, especially those transitioning to AI-enabled operations, having access to both infrastructure and strategic insight is essential.
Meeting the Demands of an AI-Driven Economy
As more organizations integrate AI into their operations, expectations for technology partners are rising. The Cisco 360 Partner Program emphasizes the ability to deliver bundled, outcome-driven solutions that address real business challenges.
Eastern Communications’ Preferred Networking Partner status confirms its capability to meet these demands. Its service philosophy blends advanced technical expertise with personalized support, often described as combining “High Tech” with “High Touch.” This balance ensures that while solutions are cutting-edge, customer relationships remain hands-on and responsive.
The recognition also aligns with Eastern Communications’ 2025 commitment to exceeding customer expectations. By offering secure, future-ready solutions while maintaining close client engagement, the company continues to differentiate itself in a competitive ICT landscape.
A Trusted Partner with a Long-Term Vision
With over 145 years of service, Eastern Communications has evolved alongside the country’s technological landscape. From being a pioneer in telecommunications to becoming a trusted ICT solutions provider, the company continues to adapt to the needs of modern enterprises.
This latest recognition from Cisco reinforces Eastern Communications’ growing role as a strategic partner for businesses nationwide. As organizations navigate rapid digital change, the company remains focused on providing the expertise, infrastructure, and support needed to thrive in an increasingly connected world.