Organized by the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) in partnership with the Philippine Disaster Resilience Foundation (PDRF), PLDT, and Smart Communications Inc., the event aimed to fortify the nation’s communication infrastructure during emergencies.
The workshop provided a platform for each region to present its localized emergency communication strategies before a panel of disaster management experts and telecommunications specialists.
These professionals, including representatives from the Office of Civil Defense-National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (OCD-NDRRMC), the World Food Programme, Help.NGO, and PDRF, offered crucial insights to refine and enhance these strategies.
DICT Assistant Secretary for Regional Development Maria Teresa M. Camba emphasized the importance of disaster resilience and emergency communications in her speech.
“The consecutive storms from last year bring to light an undeniable truth: disaster preparedness and effective emergency communications are crucial in mitigating the impact of such crises,” she said. “Let’s continue to strengthen our Emergency Communications Systems, our partnerships, and our collective resolve to build a disaster-resilient nation.”
DICT Infostructure Management Bureau Director Dennis E. Morales highlighted the agency’s role in securing emergency communication networks, focusing on resilience, confidentiality, and vulnerability management.
PLDT and Smart, key partners in the initiative, reaffirmed their commitment to disaster preparedness.
Stephanie V. Orlino, AVP and head of stakeholder management at PLDT and Smart, stated, “PLDT and Smart are committed to supporting the nation’s disaster resilience efforts for a #SafeandSmart Philippines. By collaborating with government agencies and regional stakeholders, we can build a stronger and more reliable communication network that saves lives.”
The outcomes of this workshop will contribute to the ongoing development of a national emergency communications plan, ensuring a coordinated and effective disaster response, according to PLDT.
The initiative aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (UNSDG) No. 11 on Sustainable Cities and Communities, reinforcing the commitment to enhancing disaster resilience in the Philippines. — Ed: Corrie S. Narisma
