Government officials and telecommunications firms have stepped up efforts to improve disaster preparedness, holding an emergency communications workshop to refine crisis response strategies.
The event, organized by the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), the Philippine Disaster Resilience Foundation (PDRF), and telecom providers PLDT Inc. and Smart Communications, Inc., brought together representatives from 15 regions across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. Each region presented localized emergency communication plans to a panel of disaster management and telecommunications experts.
“The consecutive storms from last year highlight the crucial role of emergency communications in mitigating the impact of disasters,” DICT Assistant Secretary for Regional Development Maria Teresa M. Camba said. “Strengthening these systems will help build a more resilient nation.”
Officials from the Office of Civil Defense-National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council, the World Food Programme, and Help.NGO provided technical insights to improve response strategies.
PLDT and Smart reaffirmed their commitment to supporting national disaster resilience efforts. “By working with government agencies and local stakeholders, we can enhance communication networks that help save lives,” said Stephanie V. Orlino, PLDT and Smart’s assistant vice president and head of stakeholder management.
The workshop’s outcomes will contribute to the Philippines’ national emergency communications plan, ensuring better coordination during future calamities.
Article by Bilyonaryo
