PLDT and wireless unit Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) have restored wireless services in most parts of Mindanao after the southern Philippine region was pounded by typhoon Odette.

“PLDT and Smart personnel braved impassable roads and felled trees to reach downed sites and quickly repair affected network equipment,” said Cathy Yap-Yang, First Vice President and Group Head, Corporate Communications for PLDT and Smart.

Following this, SMS and mobile internet services have been up since early Saturday morning in most parts of Mindanao. Repairs have also commenced to restore affected fixed-line services in the region.

PLDT and Smart are also sending technical teams to Siargao to assess damage in the area and immediately begin restoration activities. Repairs are also on going in affected sites in the Visayas and Palawan. PLDT and Smart assure customers round-the-clock repairs, until all services have been fully restored.

In the meantime, Libreng Tawag and Charging stations have been deployed to connect affected residents with their loved ones.

PLDT and Smart have also engaged local government units and local suppliers for the distribution of relief aid in heavily impacted areas.

These efforts to provide immediate response through network resilience, continuous availability of communication services, and relief assistance to communities affected by disasters are part of PLDT and Smart’s #SafeandSmart Philippines program.