In a disaster-prone nation like the Philippines, local government units (LGUs) are stepping up their emergency response capabilities through innovative communication tools.
At the heart of this shift is the PLDT-Smart Ligtas Kit, a compact yet powerful solution helping LGUs bridge critical communication gaps in disaster risk reduction and management (DRRM).
Reliable communication where it matters most
For remote and high-risk areas, maintaining reliable communication during emergencies remains a persistent challenge. In Kapangan, Benguet, officials once had to physically reach isolated barangays to deliver updates, delaying critical advisories like class suspensions.
Fortunately, the municipality has reported no disaster-related deaths over the years—a feat attributed to improved communication and stronger community compliance.
Erick Abangley, Municipal DRRM Officer of Kapangan, noted that, since receiving the PLDT-Smart Ligtas Kit, the ability to send information more easily to barangays has led to real improvement.
In Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao del Norte, the Municipal DRRM Office (MDRRMO) used the PLDT-Smart Ligtas Kit to issue timely and critical updates during a sudden nighttime flood, contributing to zero casualties and faster rescue coordination, even when entire barangays were cut off. “The Ligtas Kit helped us communicate real-time updates and manage rescue efforts more efficiently,” said Monesa D. Ayao-Sale, MDRRMO. “Everyone was informed and ready.”
A versatile lifeline for emergency response
More than just a communication bundle, the PLDT-Smart Ligtas Kit is a multi-functional resource designed for local needs. In Kapangan, its bundled mobile phone now serves as the main 24/7 hotline of the municipality’s Emergency Operations Center.
In the municipality of Catarman in Northern Samar, the PLDT-Smart Ligtas Kit’s solar power bank ensures that responders and even residents are able to keep their devices charged during power outages. It complements existing tools such as mobile phones, radio, internet, social media, and traditional “bandilyo” announcements.
In Datu Odin Sinsuat, the kit is also used for pre-disaster risk assessments and barangay-level training, while Kapangan LGU utilizes it for monitoring during holidays and local events — further embedding the technology into everyday preparedness.
Strengthening communities and supporting responders
The Ligtas Kit has also fostered greater community involvement. In Catarman, Northern Samar, residents in remote barangays now actively assist in hazard monitoring by sending photos and updates, particularly during floods. Following a major flooding event in 2023, early evacuation behavior has notably improved.
An unexpected yet meaningful benefit has also emerged: the kit has become a vital tool for responders to stay in touch with their families during operations—boosting morale and reinforcing the human side of disaster response. Emerald Guevara, Catarman MDRRMO, emphasized that the ability for responders to communicate with their families has been very important and has significantly boosted their morale.
Training makes the difference
Each Ligtas Kit deployment includes Emergency Communications Training (ECT), equipping responders to maximize the kit’s potential.
In Datu Odin Sinsuat, this training enabled more targeted awareness campaigns and better use of the kit in barangay-level DRR activities—especially in remote areas. MDRRMO head Ayao-Sale noted that while consistent IEC efforts had been in place, the training allowed the MDRRMO to better connect with the community and enhance responsiveness during crises.
In Kapangan, combining technology with capacity building training proved essential. According to MDRRMO Abangley, “Knowing how and when to use the Ligtas Kit allows us to get the most from it. It’s not just about the tool—it’s about capacity.”
Resilience through innovation and collaboration
To date, PLDT and Smart have deployed 56 Ligtas Kits across the country, enhancing local governments’ ability to respond swiftly, coordinate effectively, and keep communities safe—before, during, and after disasters.
This initiative supports United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities and SDG 13: Climate Action. Through innovation, training, and partnership, PLDT and Smart are helping build disaster-resilient communities across the Philippines, ensuring no one is left behind in times of crisis.
