Advisory 3: PLDT, Smart deploy restoration team to Batanes, following 'Julian'
The Philippine Air Force's C-130 cargo plane and a chartered flight of the MVP Group's aviation unit Pacific Global One Aviation have ferried PLDT and Smart engineers and communication equipment to restore telco services in Batanes, following the devastation by Super Typhoon Julian. The group’s technical teams are working round-the-clock to provide vital communication links to the province.
"Our engineers are now conducting an overall assessment, restoration where needed as well as replacement of any damaged equipment due to the typhoon," said Cathy Yang, FVP & Group Head of PLDT & Smart.
PLDT and Smart, together with the group’s social outreach arm, PLDT Smart Foundation (PSF), are also coordinating with local response teams to assist heavily impacted areas in the wake of Julian. The group is also set to deploy hygiene and sleeping kits to affected communities, together with Alagang Kapatid Foundation, Inc. (AKFI).
All these efforts are part of PLDT and Smart's broader commitment towards a #SafeandSmart Philippines and are aligned with the UNSDG No. 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities.
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Advisory 2: PLDT, Smart network infrastructure remains resilient amid “Julian”
The network infrastructure of PLDT and its wireless unit Smart Communications, Inc. remains resilient amid the onslaught of Supertyphoon "Julian," except in areas affected by commercial power interruptions. Some customers in Batanes may also experience service issues.
"PLDT group is working closely with our local partners as we monitor areas that have been heavily impacted by Julian. We are committed to provide assistance in emergency response operations to reach affected communities," said Cathy Yang, FVP and Group Head, Corporate Communications at PLDT and Smart.
As of 11 a.m. today, Philippine Standard Time, PAGASA reported that Julian has slightly intensified, with maximum sustained winds of 195 kph and gustiness of up to 240 kph. It is now outside the Philippine area of responsibility but may re-enter tomorrow.
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Advisory: PLDT, Smart network stable amid “Julian,” ready to help North Luzon communities
PLDT Inc. and its wireless unit Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) have doubled down on preparations for Typhoon "Julian" (international name: Krathon) as it rapidly intensifies.
"Our network services remain stable except for areas affected by commercial power interruptions. The group has prepositioned personnel, equipment, and resources to ensure quick response in areas in the path of the typhoon," said Cathy Yang, PLDT and Smart FVP and Head of Group Corporate Communications.
PLDT and Smart are likewise ready to work with local government units, provincial and municipal information agencies, and local disaster risk reduction and management offices and emergency response teams to keep communities connected.
As of 11:00 AM today, Philippine Standard Time, weather bureau PAGASA reported that the center of the eye of Typhoon #JulianPH has passed the coastal waters of Sabtang Island, Batanes, packing maximum sustained winds of 175 kph, and gustiness of up to 240 kph.
Typhoon #JulianPH’s devastating winds will be felt over areas under Wind Signal No. 4, which include Batanes and the northern part of Babuyan Islands. Furthermore, the possibility of hoisting Wind Signal No. 5 has not been ruled out.
PLDT and Smart urge everyone to take necessary precautions and heed the alerts and warnings of local governments and disaster response authorities.