PLDT and Smart, along with the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), the Philippine Disaster Resilience Foundation (PDRF), and Huawei Philippines, recently joined forces to strengthen the emergency communication capabilities of DICT offices nationwide.
This initiative comes as the country celebrates National Resilience Month. The partnership focuses on bridging the critical gap in communication during times of crisis. PLDT and Smart are achieving this by:
- Equipping DICT offices: Providing essential communication devices and reliable connectivity ensures uninterrupted communication channels during disasters.
- Training for resilience: Capacity-building workshops equip DICT personnel with the knowledge and skills to navigate emergency situations effectively.
- Early warning systems: Community-based early warning platforms are being established to keep residents informed and prepared for potential hazards.
- Post-disaster support: Emergency communication support will be readily available to affected communities in the aftermath of disasters.
This collaborative effort goes beyond just equipment. Integrating these tools with existing preparedness and response plans of local government units (LGUs) strengthens their overall institutional resilience.
The recently concluded training sessions are a key component of PLDT and Smart’s “Ligtas Kit,” an all-in-one emergency communication package. The Ligtas Kit includes essential equipment, comprehensive training programs, and access to the Infocast platform – a web-based broadcasting solution for efficient information dissemination during disasters.
Earlier this year, PLDT and Smart provided a Ligtas Kit to DICT Region 3. The rollout of these emergency communication kits continues, prioritizing partners in hazard-prone areas.
