Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, December 16) — NOW Telecom, an affiliate of Velarde-led media and technology holding firm NOW Corp., received the US government’s support to finance the advancement of 5G network in the Philippines.

In a statement on Friday, the company said the United States Trade and Development Agency (USTDA) has approved grant funding for NOW Telecom’s development and implementation of a mobile and fixed wireless network using 5G technology. It did not disclose the amount.

NOW Telecom is set to work with global technology leaders Nokia of America and Nokia Bell Labs.

Deploying a 5G stand-alone network could improve the internet state nationwide, its top official said.

“The TA (technical assistance) and pilot launch of a 5G network in the Philippines through NOW Telecom will include a development plan and execution of a pilot 5G Stand-Alone Network and the design of a completely clean and secured stand-alone 5G network,” NOW Telecom President and COO Rene L. Rosales said.

The company said the grant was “an initial step” to its partnership with the US government.

READ: NOW Corp confirms 5G talks with US