As part of its emergency response efforts, the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) deploys its Mobile Operations Vehicle for Emergencies (MOVE) to ensure connectivity amidst Typhoon Pepito. (Photo Courtesy of DICT)
QUEZON CITY, (PIA) – The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) has ensured the mobilization of emergency telecommunications services to communities affected by Typhoon Pepito.
In a Kapihan sa Bagong Pilipinas (KBP) media forum, Assistant Secretary for Legal Affairs Renato Paraiso recognized the crucial importance of communication in times of disaster to ensure that the affected residents can stay updated with the latest news and remain connected with their loved ones.
“Makakaasa kayo na lahat ng serbisyo ng DICT when it comes to emergency response would be there (You can rest assured that all of the services of the DICT when it comes to emergency response would be there),” said Paraiso.
In the National Capital Region (NCR), the DICT has deployed its Mobile Operations Vehicle for Emergencies (MOVE) which is equipped with an integrated communications system designed to provide reliable connectivity during emergencies when commercial telecommunications are down.
The DICT also mobilized its Government Emergency Telecommunications Team (GETT) and Starlink units to other regions in need of stable communications and uninterrupted disaster response coordination for the timely delivery of basic government services.
In addition, the DICT Secretary Ivan John Uy has directed the department to make the necessary emergency procurement for the repair of infostructures damaged by the onslaught of Typhoon Pepito.
Aside from shedding light on the emergency response initiatives of the DICT, Paraiso highlighted priority initiatives that are aimed at bridging the digital divide, including the implementation of the National Broadband Program which is fueled by the National Fibre Backbone project.
The National Fiber Backbone will particularly focus on the improvement of the country’s internet infrastructure to deliver high-speed internet access. The initial rollout of the project in Metro Manila and provinces in Luzon was able to benefit more than 346 government agencies which helped in enhancing public service delivery.
The Free Wi-Fi for All Program also stands as a supporting initiative towards advancing digital inclusion, particularly in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas (GIDAs). To date, over 13,000 access points have already been established for the Free Wi-Fi program which are serving more than 10 million unique users across the country.
“The DICT’s initiatives are about more than technology; they are about inclusion, resilience, and the promise of a future where no one is left behind in our digital journey,” Paraiso noted, reaffirming the government’s thrust to establish an inclusive and digitally empowered Filipino society.
The Kapihan sa Bagong Pilipinas is a nationwide media forum spearheaded by the Presidential Communications Office (PCO) and the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) to bring timely, relevant, and accurate information about government programs and services to grassroots communities nationwide. (JMP/PIA-NCR)
