Smart deploys emergency comms team for quake drill

A rescue worker uses Smart’s satellite phone during the Nationwide Simultaneous Earthquake Drill in Cebu City. Smart has deployed its multi-equipment on wheels, including its free calls and charging and satellite communication services, as part of the drill.


During the simulated 7.2-magnitude earthquake situation held at the Armed Forces of the Philippines Central Command and Capitol Social Hall in Cebu City, Smart deployed its multi-equipment on wheels with provisions for free calling, charging stations and satellite communications services.

Smart also provided LTE SIM packs to the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) and the local government unit to beef up their communication activities.

Leading the nationwide quake drill in Cebu City were National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) Executive Director and OCD Administrator Ricardo Jalad and Department of Science and Technology Undersecretary (DOST) Renato Solidum, among other key officials.

As a member of the emergency telecommunications cluster of the NDRRMC, Smart has provided communication aid during calamities, including free calls and charging and satellite solutions to LGUs and response units.

“Communications as aid play a crucial role during disasters,” said Ramon R. Isberto, Smart public affairs head. “Our satellite services are a viable alternative to traditional fixed and wireless communications during extraordinary events especially when other infrastructures like power facilities are down.”

Through its #SafePH advocacy, Smart promotes resilience in times of calamities using technology and communications as aid. The company’s disaster risk reduction initiatives, which include emergency mobile solutions and on-ground community caravans, have helped instill a culture of preparedness among its partners and the general public.