PLDT Inc. and its wireless unit Smart Communications Inc., and Globe Telecom Inc. yesterday said they are ready to deploy free calls as well as free charging and WiFi services in areas expected to be affected by tropical storm “Karding.”
In a statement, PLDT said it has activated quick response teams and prepositioned mission-critical equipment and additional personnel as Karding barrels towards Casiguran, Aurora.
PLDT and Smart’s free call and charging stations are on standby, ready to be deployed in areas that will be heavily impacted by the tropical cyclone. However, the telcos said for the safety of their personnel, operations will only commence once Karding has passed.
PLDT and Smart have likewise activated quick response teams and deployed generator sets in Tuguegarao and Gattaran, Cagayan.
Meanwhile, Globe has started preparations for the potential impact of Karding, which reached super typhoon category after “explosive intensification” early Sunday morning and is on track to cross Luzon.
Globe said its technical and support teams are on standby in areas forecast to be affected by the storm to ensure the stability of network operations. Network facilities also have generators ready in case of power outages in storm-hit areas.
The company also announced that itis ready to deploy free call, charging and WiFi services in areas that may be affected.
Globe added that customers may access the official National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) website free of data charges,to stay up-to-date on the latest weather developments.
Residents in areas that may be affected are advised to expect rains, possible flash floods and landslides, and are encouraged to store enough food and water, prepare first aid kits, emergency light sources and batteries, and ensure that their mobile phones are charged prior to the storm’s landfall. They should also watch out for text alerts from the NDRRMC.
