PLDT Enterprise has partnered with the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) and local government units in Mindanao to deploy Starlink satellite connectivity in hospitals affected by the recent earthquake in southern Mindanao, helping strengthen emergency communications and healthcare operations during recovery efforts.
The initiative has already enabled connectivity at the Malungon Sarangani Provincial Hospital and Alabel Sarangani Provincial Hospital, ensuring critical communication services remain available for healthcare workers and local communities.
The deployment forms part of the PLDT Group’s communications-as-aid program, which leverages digital infrastructure and connectivity solutions to support disaster response and recovery operations in affected areas.
In parallel, PLDT Enterprise, together with the PLDT-Smart Foundation, has begun distributing relief assistance to impacted families. The initial aid package includes food packs, potable water, and hot meals for communities affected by the earthquake.
To help residents stay connected, PLDT and Smart continue to provide Libreng Tawag, Libreng Charging, and Libreng WiFi services in General Santos, Glan, and Jose Abad Santos. Smart and TNT subscribers in affected locations also received emergency load assistance to facilitate communication with family members and access to essential information.
The PLDT Group said it continues to coordinate with the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC), disaster risk reduction and management offices, local government units, and community partners to sustain communications support throughout ongoing relief efforts.
Through its #KonektedForResilience initiative, the company aims to strengthen disaster preparedness and ensure communities remain informed, connected, and supported during emergencies.
