PLDT Inc. and its wireless arm Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) recently supported the 2nd Quarter Nationwide Simultaneous Earthquake Drill (NSED), led by the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) and the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC), as part of the Group’s ongoing commitment to strengthening the country’s disaster preparedness and community resilience.

Conducted in Dipolog City, Zamboanga del Norte, this quarter’s NSED highlighted the critical role of local governments and communities in advancing disaster risk reduction efforts. PLDT and Smart main and regional offices and stores also participated in the drill to simulate safety protocols in the event of an earthquake.

As part of their #SafeandSmart advocacy, PLDT and Smart deployed emergency communications, including the group’s Libreng Tawag and Libreng Charging services as part of the nationwide drill. These services help ensure the timely delivery of alerts, coordination, and public information before, during, and after emergencies.

“We recognize our important role in providing communication as aid during times of disaster,” said Roby A. Alampay, PLDT and Smart FVP and Head of Public Engagement. “Our regular participation in the NSED reaffirms our commitment to building safer, more resilient communities with the help of technology.”

PLDT and Smart’s disaster response initiatives include the rapid restoration of network services in disaster-affected areas, cell broadcast emergency alerts, load assistance, and the provision of free calls, charging stations, and Wi-Fi services. The Group also works closely with local governments and response teams to help ensure that timely and relevant information reaches communities when it is needed most.

Aligned with Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities, and SDG 13: Climate Action, PLDT and Smart continue to embed disaster risk reduction in their operations—supporting nationwide efforts to build a more resilient Philippines.