The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) and telecommunications companies have deployed free internet access, charging stations, and emergency communication services in areas affected by the magnitude 7.8 earthquake in Southeast Mindanao.
In a statement, the DICT said it activated its Government Emergency and Communications System (GECS) and Free Public Internet Access Program (FPIAP) in several locations across Sarangani Province. The agency deployed Starlink satellite internet kits and charging stations to help residents and emergency responders stay connected.
Free internet access is available at selected sites, including:
Meanwhile, Globe activated its satellite-to-mobile service in partnership with Starlink, providing free data and messaging services to customers in South Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, and Sarangani. The company said this is its first use of the technology for disaster response operations in the country.
PLDT and Smart also provided connectivity support to the command center in General Santos City to assist emergency responders with coordination and recovery efforts.
The companies are also offering free WiFi, device charging, and national direct dial calls at their service center in the city.
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