The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) and the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) have ensured internet connectivity in evacuation centers and vital disaster response hubs in Negros Occidental after Typhoon Tino downed telecommunication lines on Nov. 4.
As of Tuesday, at least 12 Starlink satellite internet units have been turned over and activated in affected areas.
DICT-Negros Occidental’s Mary Jane Agonace said they fulfilled their mandate of providing connectivity to Tino-hit areas.
“Internet is crucial during disasters since it is through connectivity that people are able to communicate with their families and communities and be updated with the right information,” she added.
“Internet is also needed in government services for rapid response, timely coordination, and updated reports.”
Data from the Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council emergency telecommunications cluster showed 12 Starlink units were activated between Nov. 6 and 18.
One of the units was set up at the Office of Civil Defense-Negros Island Region headquarters here.
In La Castellana, the recipients included the municipal government, municipal disaster risk reduction and management office (MDRRMO), and La Castellana Elementary School, which serves as an evacuation center.
Starlink units were also provided to Moises Padilla and its MDRRMO, Moises Padilla Elementary School, and Jose Pepito Montilla Sr. National High School.
Other recipients are La Carlota City, including its permanent evacuation center; Roberto S. Benedicto Elementary School; and the MDRRMOs of Isabela, Binalbagan and Don Salvador Benedicto.*PNA