PLDT’s #KonektedforInclusion initiative leverages technology to expand connectivity, learning, and livelihood opportunities for underserved sectors, including Indigenous communities, in observance of National Indigenous Peoples Month.
PLDT Inc. and Smart Communications are strengthening disaster preparedness among indigenous communities in Palawan alongside efforts to improve telecommunications network resilience through the Palawan Resiliency Submarine Cable Project.
More than 30 members of the Tagbanua Tandulanen Indigenous Cultural Community (ICC) from 11 barangays in El Nido participated in a disaster preparedness training session held in Barangay Sibaltan. The initiative aims to equip residents with practical skills to respond to emergencies while supporting reliable connectivity in their communities.
Led by Jonathan Palma of the Emergency Management Center, the training covered survival techniques and emergency response for earthquakes, typhoons, and storm surges. Participants also learned how to prepare emergency kits and use mobile phones during emergencies.
The session forms part of PLDT and Smart’s commitment to the community under a Memorandum of Agreement for the submarine cable project. The companies also turned over office equipment to the ICC for use in future tribal hall activities.
Stephanie V. Orlino, assistant vice president and head of stakeholder engagement at PLDT and Smart, emphasized the connection between telecommunications infrastructure and community preparedness.
“Resilient communities and resilient connectivity go hand in hand,” Orlino said, highlighting the importance of equipping indigenous communities with the knowledge and skills needed to prepare for emergencies.
The agreement with the Tagbanua ICC and the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples also reinforces commitments to protect Indigenous Peoples’ rights and observe cultural, social, and environmental safeguards during project implementation.
Conducted in line with National Indigenous Peoples Month, the initiative supports PLDT Group’s #KonektedforInclusion and #KonektedforResilience programs, which promote digital access, learning opportunities, and disaster preparedness among underserved communities.
Members of the Tagbanua Tandulanen Indigenous Cultural Community from 11 barangays in El Nido, Palawan, participate in a disaster preparedness training organized by PLDT to strengthen community resilience and emergency response skills.
