From connectivity and clean water to road safety and rescue operations, companies under the MVP Group—including PLDT, Smart, Meralco, Maynilad, Metro Pacific Tollways Corp. (MPTC), and affiliated foundations—have activated coordinated efforts to help keep the public safe and connected.
“I’m proud of how quickly our people sprang into action,” said MVP Group chair and CEO Manuel V. Pangilinan. “They all have a deep understanding of our Group’s purpose—making sure that Filipinos have access to essential services, particularly communication, power, transportation, and clean water, especially during times like these.”
To help families stay connected, PLDT Inc. and Smart Communications Inc. provided one day of free calls, texts, and 250MB of data in the most impacted areas. Libreng Tawag, WiFi, and Charging stations were set up in multiple provinces, while the Smart Cares Crisis Hotline (+63288457799) remains active to assist customers in emergencies.
Meralco deployed rescue and restoration teams equipped with high-bed trucks and motorized fiberglass boats to assist flooded communities. By July 23, power had been restored to nearly all affected customers. Relief operations by the One Meralco Foundation are ongoing in Marikina City, Quezon City, Bulacan, and Cavite.
Marikina City, Quezon City, Bulacan, and Cavite.
On the water front, Maynilad has delivered over 3,500 four-liter water packs and 2,760 bottled water packs to evacuation centers and LGUs. Deployment teams are on standby to scale up distribution as needs arise.
Meanwhile, MPTC activated a crisis response spanning both north and south Luzon toll networks.
At NLEX, flood pumps were deployed in key areas, while patrol teams continue 24/7 assistance for stranded motorists. Temporary U-turn slots have been opened to divert traffic away from flooded zones, and snacks and bottled water were distributed to stranded passengers. Real-time traffic updates and safety tips are being shared through official social media channels.
The Alagang Kapatid Foundation Inc. (AKFI), along with MVP Group’s foundations, is distributing thousands of relief packs and hot meals to displaced families.
In partnership with Maya Philippines, AKFI also launched a digital donation drive, allowing the public to scan a Maya QR Code and contribute to relief efforts covering food, clothing, shelter, and other essentials.
“As the situation evolves, so will the response,” Pangilinan said. “The MVP Group remains on the ground, focused on restoring access to vital services. We will continue working closely with national and local authorities to deliver support where it’s needed most.”
Each company within the MVP Group is contributing in its own area of expertise, reinforcing a whole-of-enterprise approach to disaster response. —Ed: Corrie S. Narisma
