PLDT-Smart Ligtas Kit sustains safety and promotes resilience in Datu Odin Sinsuat

Datu Odin Sinsuat, the capital of Maguindanao del Norte and gateway to Cotabato City, is among the province’s largest and most dynamic municipalities. Known for its fertile lands and diverse communities, it is also geographically vulnerable—bordered by rivers, low-lying plains, and coastal areas that make it highly susceptible to flooding and typhoon-related hazards. Disaster preparedness is vital not only for its 100,000-plus residents but also for nearby towns that rely on it as a hub for commerce and governance.

To help strengthen resilience in this key area of Mindanao, PLDT Inc. and its wireless subsidiary Smart Communications, Inc. have equipped the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO) of Datu Odin Sinsuat with vital emergency communication tools and training. The initiative forms part of the companies’ broader commitment to support LGUs in boosting preparedness and response.

At the center of this effort is the PLDT-Smart Ligtas Kit, a comprehensive emergency communications package that ensures uninterrupted connectivity during disasters. The kit includes mobile phones and other tools for real-time coordination even when regular signals are down. It also comes with disaster preparedness training, ensuring that emergency responders are able to maximize the kit and its contents.

“Flooding remains our top hazard, affecting 25 of our 34 barangays,” shared Monesa D. Ayao-Sale, MDRRMO Head of Datu Odin Sinsuat. “The Ligtas Kit has been a game-changer, especially during Typhoon Paeng and flood events in 2022 and 2024. It enabled us to stay connected with provincial authorities and coordinate rescue efforts swiftly, even when some barangays were cut off.”

First deployed in 2022 after Typhoon Paeng, the Ligtas Kit has since proven indispensable during emergencies, enabling rapid information-sharing and coordination with various government agencies and partners.

One notable success story involved a sudden nighttime flood, where barangay officials were alerted in time through the Ligtas Kit’s equipment. This early warning facilitated swift evacuations, resulting in zero casualties and a quicker recovery.

Beyond emergency response, the Ligtas Kit also supports pre-disaster risk assessments, barangay-level training, and weather monitoring, ensuring that LGUs remain vigilant and prepared. It complements other communication tools like handheld radios, mobile phones, and Smart’s InfoCast system, which broadcasts real-time alerts and advisories to residents.

“Communication is now a lifeline during disasters or emergencies. As network operators, PLDT and Smart prioritize providing vital communication support before, during, and immediately after disasters,” said Stephanie V. Orlino, AVP and Head of Stakeholder Engagement at PLDT and Smart, emphasizing the importance of communication in disaster response.

This initiative is part of PLDT and Smart’s #SafeandSmart advocacy, which promotes safer, more resilient communities through technology and capacity-building. By equipping LGUs with reliable communication tools and training, PLDT and Smart continue to play a crucial role in disaster risk reduction and management across the Philippines.