Philippine regions unite to strengthen emergency communications at nationwide workshop

In a vital step towards enhancing disaster resilience, representatives from various regions of the Philippines convened at Smart's TechnoLab in Makati City for an intensive Emergency Communications Plan workshop. The event, a collaborative effort among the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), the Philippine Disaster Resilience Foundation (PDRF), and leading telecommunications providers PLDT and Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) aimed to strengthen the nation’s communication infrastructure during emergencies.

During the workshop, fifteen regions from Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao presented their localized emergency communication strategies before a panel of experts, comprised of seasoned disaster management professionals and telecommunications specialists, who provided valuable feedback for enhancement.

Leading the expert panel, representatives from the Office of Civil Defense-National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (OCD-NDRRMC) shared key insights on strengthening emergency communications. Their contribution was a cornerstone of the session, alongside expertise shared by the World Food Programme, Help.NGO and PDRF.

From the opening remarks of Maria Teresa M. Camba, Assistant Secretary for Regional Development of the Department of Information and Communications Technology, "The consecutive storms from last year brings to light an undeniable truth; that disaster preparedness and effective emergency communications are crucial in mitigating the impact of such crises. At the core of our disaster response efforts, lies emergency communications planning." ASec. Camba finished her speech saying "Let's continue to strengthen our Emergency Communications Systems, including our partnerships, and our collective resolve to build a disaster resilient nation. One that can withstand and recover from any challenge that comes our way."

Dennis E. Morales, Infostructure Management Bureau Director of DICT mentioned, “The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), as the lead ETC agency, plays a critical role in securing this network, with a strong focus on resilience, confidentiality, and vulnerability management.”

“PLDT and Smart are committed to supporting the nation’s disaster resilience efforts for a #SafeandSmart Philippines,” said Stephanie V. Orlino, PLDT and Smart AVP and Head of Stakeholder Management. “By collaborating with government agencies and regional stakeholders, we can build a stronger and more reliable communication network that saves lives.”

The workshop’s outcomes will contribute to the ongoing development and refinement of the national emergency communications plan, ensuring a coordinated and effective response to future disasters. The event served as a testament to the Philippines' commitment to proactive disaster management and the power of collaboration in building a safer nation.

This engagement also highlights the PLDT Group’s wider commitment to promote disaster resilience among Filipinos, towards a #SafeandSmart Philippines through continuous availability of communication services, mobile solutions, and activities to help communities mitigate disaster risks. This is aligned with the UNSDG No. 11 on Sustainable Cities and Communities.