DIPOLOG City — PLDT Inc. and its wireless unit, Smart Communications Inc., took part in the second-quarter Nationwide Simultaneous Earthquake Drill on June 23, led by the Office of Civil Defense and the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council.
Held in Dipolog City, Zamboanga del Norte, the drill underscored the role of local governments and communities in disaster risk reduction. PLDT and Smart employees at company offices and retail stores practiced safety protocols and evacuation procedures.
As part of their disaster-preparedness efforts, the firms deployed free-call and charging stations through their Libreng Tawag and Libreng Charging services to ensure communication links remain open before, during and after an earthquake.
“We recognize our important role in providing communication as aid during times of disaster. Our regular participation in the NSED reaffirms our commitment to building safer, more resilient communities with the help of technology,” said Roby A. Alampay, senior vice president and head of public engagement for PLDT and Smart.
PLDT and Smart’s wider disaster-response initiatives include rapid network restoration, cell-broadcast emergency alerts and load assistance. The companies collaborate with local governments and response teams to deliver timely information to affected communities. (PR)
