Smart deploys record number of ‘Libreng Tawag’ stations

Network resiliency, readiness key to quick emergency response

MANILA, Philippines - A combined supercharged and resilient network, well-placed business continuity plan and ready organization proved to be critical elements in ensuring reliable mobile telecommunications services especially during times of disaster and emergency situations.

These were some insights shared by Smart Communications Inc. as the wireless telco leader quickly deployed a record number of “Libreng Tawag” stations in areas severely affected by Tropical Storm Maring and torrential monsoon rains.

“Network preparedness is critical before, during and after disaster and emergency situations. Learning from past experiences, we have worked toward making our entire network and organization ready. And because of these preparations, our network was fully operational with only minimal disruptions.” said Ramon Isberto, Smart Public Affairs Group head.

Smart previously made geographical scanning of the locations of its cellsites and made the necessary adjustments in ensuring that its equipment are out-of-reach of potential flooding. All Smart cellsites have also been equipped with generator sets and higher capacity batteries that can run for longer periods of time.

Meanwhile, in anticipation of adverse weather conditions, Smart engineers are deployed in identified critical areas for immediate response to any possible outage.

Smart also activated its domestic roaming for Sun subscribers in affected areas.

Since Monday, Smart has deployed over 25 “Libreng Tawag” stations in 17 cities and municipalities severely affected by the flooding.

At present, “Libreng Tawag” services continue to be operational in the following places: H. Bautista Elementary School, Barangay Concepcion, Marikina City; San Jose National High School in Barangay San Jose, E. Rodriguez, Rizal; Culis National High School in Barangay Culis, Hermosa, Bataan; Rizal Triangle covered court, Olongapo City Hall, Olongapo City; Sindalan High School in Sindalan, San Fernando, Pampanga; Dela Paz Norte Elementary School in Dela Paz Norte, San Fernando, Pampanga; Del Pan Sports Complex, Binondo, Manila; Landayan covered court, San Pedro, Laguna; Barangay Poblacion, Marilao, Bulacan; San Nicholas Barangay Hall, Hagonoy, Bulacan; Barangays Bagabac and Florida, Camiling, Tarlac; Sta. Rita Elementary School and Sta. Rita High School, Sta. Rita, Pampanga; Binakayan National High School, Kawit, Cavite; and St. Michael Parish Church, Bacoor, Cavite.

Smart also provided quick access to messaging and mobile financial services.

Early this week, Smart, through its partner Youphoric Labs, activated access to its SMS gateway for the social media initiative #RescuePH for reporting of rescue cases.

Smart subscribers who want to donate can do also do so through the Smart Money Account number 5577-5193-3483-6104 or by texting MARING <amount> to 270. They can also donate to Red Cross by texting RED <10, 25, 50, or 100> then send to 4143.  

Smart continues its relief efforts, distributing rice, canned goods and other necessities in several evacuation areas in Kawit and Bacoor, Cavite.