PLDT Group Brings Connectivity and Relief Support to Earthquake-Affected Communities

To help support critical communications following the recent earthquake in southern Mindanao, PLDT Enterprise, the B2B arm of the PLDT Group, has partnered with the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) and the local government units of General Santos, Saranggani, and South Cotabato, to deploy Starlink connectivity in key Mindanao hospitals, now operational at the Malungon Sarangani Provincial Hospital, Alabel Sarangani Provincial Hospital. The deployment forms part of the Group's communications-as-aid initiatives to support emergency response and recovery efforts in affected communities.

Together with its social outreach arm, PLDT-Smart Foundation (PSF), PLDT and Smart have begun distributing the first tranche of relief assistance to affected families. The assistance includes food packs, potable water, and hot meals. Libreng Tawag (including free NDD calls), Libreng Charging, and Libreng WiFi services also remain available in General Santos City; Glan, Sarangani; and Jose Abad Santos, Davao Occidental. Smart and TNT subscribers in affected areas also received emergency load assistance to help them communicate with loved ones and access important information.
The Group continues to work closely with the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC), DRRMOs, local government units, government agencies, and community partners in ongoing relief efforts. Personnel are working around the clock to provide communications support where needed while prioritizing the safety of employees and facilities. Through its #KonektedforResilience advocacy, the Group helps communities stay informed, supported, and connected during emergencies.