PLDT Enterprise, together with PLDT and Smart Communications Inc., deployed Starlink satellite broadband to hospitals and emergency command centers while network teams worked to restore affected services.
The group said most of its network facilities remained operational, with disruptions largely caused by commercial power outages rather than damage to telecommunications infrastructure.
“During emergencies, connectivity becomes deeply personal. It allows people to reach loved ones, enables responders to coordinate more effectively and helps communities begin the difficult work of rebuilding,” PLDT chief operating officer Menardo “Butch” Jimenez Jr. said in a statement on Wednesday.
Hospitals get satellite links
Starlink connections were deployed at Malungon Sarangani Provincial Hospital and Alabel Sarangani Provincial Hospital, as well as command and rescue centers supporting emergency operations.
PLDT teams were also sent to General Santos City and several municipalities in South Cotabato to assess facilities and support network restoration.
The deployments were coordinated with the Department of Information and Communications Technology and local governments as responders worked to maintain communications in affected communities.
Backup from space
Satellite broadband can be deployed where terrestrial networks or power infrastructure have been knocked offline, providing responders with a temporary communications link while conventional services are restored.
PLDT Enterprise said it aims to be the “first responders for the first responders,” using rapidly deployable connections to support government agencies and emergency teams on the ground.
PLDT, Smart and their enterprise unit said they would continue supporting communities as recovery efforts shift from emergency response to rebuilding.
—Edited by Miguel R. Camus
