PLDT and its wireless unit Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) continue to be on heightened alert and are closely monitoring Severe Tropical Storm Opong (international name: Bualoi) as it moves across the Philippine landmass, bringing heavy rains and strong winds over affected regions.
“Our teams remain on standby to respond to any disruptions and to assist customers and communities. We strongly urge everyone in affected areas to heed the warnings of local authorities and prioritize safety above all else,” according to Roby Alampay, head of Public Engagement at PLDT and Smart.
The PLDT group has scaled up its disaster response coordination, focused on providing vital communication links and aid to affected areas. This includes coordination with Local Government Unit (LGU) partners and provision of communication support to local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Offices (DRRMOs) of Albay, the Albay Provincial Safety and Emergency Management Office (APSEMO), and the Southern Leyte Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO).
PLDT and Smart are also working closely with the Alagang Kapatid Foundation, Inc. (AKFI) to provide communications support to their team, which will be deployed in Babuyan Islands, Northern Samar, Eastern Samar, Masbate, and possibly Romblon and Oriental Mindoro, to deliver help from the MVP Group. Their deployment will include setting up “Libreng Tawag” (Free Call) stations as they move through various parts of the country, using the PLDT and Smart Ligtas Kits for emergency communications.
“We are committed to maintaining connectivity and extending assistance to those impacted by the severe weather. We also urge everyone to charge their cellphones and power banks, and to follow the guidance of local authorities and prioritize safety,” added Alampay.
