A rescue worker uses Smart’s satellite phone during the nationwide earthquake drill in Cebu City. (Contributed photo)
Smart Communications provided emergency communications support at the recent National Simultaneous Earthquake Drill (NSED) in Cebu City.
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.
During the drill, Cebu provincial government workers assumed the duck, cover and hold position, while soldiers were deployed to the affected areas.
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 play a crucial role during disasters,” said Smart public affairs head Ramon Isberto.
“Our satellite services are a viable alternative to traditional fixed and wireless communications during extraordinary events especially when other infrastructure like power facilities are down,” he added. /PR