PLDT, Smart provide free calls to OFWs in Lebanon

Filipinos with relatives and friends living in war-torn Lebanon and Israel can now make a free two-minute call to their loved ones this weekend using any of the two million PLDT landlines and over 21 million Smart and Talk N Text mobile phones.

This will be done under an emergency assistance program for the benefit of overseas Filipino workers families launched by PLDT using PLDT Pwede! Cards and PLDT Budget Cards.

At the same time, PLDT wireless subsidiary Smart Communications Inc. has also set up "Libreng Tawag" Centers in Metro Manila, Cebu City and Davao City. The "Libreng Tawag" Centers will provide free voice and SMS services for the families and relatives of OFWs affected by the ongoing conflict between Israel and Lebanon.

Under this program, Pwede! Card and Budget Card users will be given one 2-minute free call to Lebanon or Israel on Saturday and Sunday, July 22 and 23.

Users of these call cards can utilize PLDT landlines to make voice calls to Lebanon and Israel following the usual procedure prescribed for these cards. Moreover, PLDT Pwede! Card users can also make voice calls through Smart and Talk N Text cell phones.

"We are trying to do our share in helping our fellow Filipinos working abroad. We also hope that this program will help their families get through this difficult period," said PLDT and SMART spokesperson Ramon Isberto.

The Smart "Libreng Tawag" Centers are located at the OWWA national office in Pasay City; OWWA Region 7 office at the Mezzanine floor, LDM Bldg., MJ Cuenco cor. Legaspi St., Cebu City; and at the OWWA Region 11 office located at Door #8, PTA Complex, Magsaysay Park, Davao City.