Advisory 2: PLDT and Smart aid typhoon-hit Cagayan with free calls, SMS, Wi-Fi, charging

PLDT and its wireless unit Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) are stepping up their relief efforts to assist communities in Northern Luzon devastated by recent typhoons. The companies have activated multiple Libreng Tawag (free calls), Libreng WiFi (free Wi-Fi), and Libreng Charging (free charging) stations in typhoon-hit areas.

To help connect affected residents to their loved ones, the PLDT group is also providing Smart and TNT customers in Cagayan with 30 minutes of free calls to all networks, 100 free text messages to all networks, and free 100 MB data.

"Communication serves as a lifeline during emergency situations. We are committed to helping our fellow Filipinos during these challenging times," said Cathy Yang, FVP and Group Head for Corporate Communications at PLDT and Smart. "By providing essential communication services and relief assistance, we aim to alleviate the challenges faced by our communities."

As of Thursday, PLDT and Smart have activated Libreng Tawag, Libreng WiFi, Libreng Charging stations at the following locations, with more to be activated in the coming days taking into consideration the safety of the location, personnel, and communities: 

Isabela:
Nov. 14
- GX3 Corp/Tech Ave Store, Panganiban St. cor. Alfonso St., Centro East Santiago City
- Baringin covered court, Baringin Sur, Cauayan City
- Purok 5, Malini, Santiago City

Nov. 15
- Purok 8, Calao East, Santiago City
- GX3 Corp/Tech Ave Store, Centro East, Santiago City

Beyond providing immediate communication support, PLDT and Smart continue to collaborate with local government units to distribute relief aid to severely impacted areas.

The Group’s Libreng Tawag, Libreng WiFi initiative and relief efforts underscore its dedication to building a safe and smart Philippines. By ensuring network resilience, providing essential communication services, and extending a helping hand to those in need, PLDT and Smart are empowering communities to recover and rebuild.

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Advisory: PLDT, Smart bolster network, personnel preparedness as PH braces for 7th storm in a month

As the country braces for Typhoon Pepito which is expected to enter the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) this weekend, PLDT and Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) continue to monitor Ofel, the sixth weather disturbance following the wake of typhoons Julian, Kristine, Leon, Marce, and Nika.

“As we remain steadfast in our ongoing relief operations, we are constantly resupplying our prepositioned teams and resources in preparation for Super Typhoon Ofel and the brewing storm Pepito,” said Cathy Yang, FVP and Group Head for Corporate Communications, PLDT and Smart. "We continue our restoration and fortification work to improve our network resilience against potential service disruptions during this unprecedented typhoon deluge."

Network services remain stable in areas in the path of Typhoon Ofel which has intensified even further. PLDT and Smart urge everyone in the affected areas to take necessary precautions and follow the advice of local authorities. The companies will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as needed.

Typhoon Ofel intensified further and has been upgraded into super typhoon category. PAGASA has tracked the center of the eye of Super Typhoon Ofel located 165 km East Southeast of Tuguegarao City, Cagayan and moving Northwestward at 15 kph with maximum sustained winds of 185 kph near the center and gustiness of up to 230 kph.