MANILA, Philippines – In the aftermath of the powerful earthquake that struck parts of Mindanao, PLDT Enterprise, together with PLDT and Smart, deployed Starlink satellite connectivity solutions and mobilized emergency communications support to assist communities, responders, and local government units in maintaining critical links during a time of urgent need.
PLDT and Smart immediately dispatched field and operations teams to assess network facilities and support restoration activities in affected areas, including General Santos City and several municipalities in South Cotabato. This was made possible through close coordination among PLDT Enterprise, the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), and local government units on the ground. Assessments showed that most PLDT and Smart network facilities remained stable and operational, with service disruptions largely caused by commercial power interruptions affecting certain sites.
PLDT Enterprise successfully rolled out Starlink connectivity solutions in areas where communications infrastructure had been affected, helping provide vital connectivity for emergency response operations and local communities. These deployments serviced impacted areas, including Malungon Sarangani Provincial Hospital and Alabel Sarangani Provincial Hospital, as well as command centers and rescue operation centers supporting emergency response and coordination efforts in affected areas.
“During emergencies, connectivity becomes deeply personal. It allows people to reach loved ones, enables responders to coordinate more effectively, and helps communities begin the difficult work of rebuilding,” said Menardo “Butch” G. Jimenez Jr., chief operating officer of PLDT.
Support for the Front Lines of Disaster Response When and Where Communication Matters Most
The deployment of Starlink solutions reflects PLDT Enterprise’s broader commitment to delivering resilient and rapidly deployable connectivity to communities and institutions facing challenging circumstances, particularly in locations affected by disaster-related disruptions, power outages, or geographic limitations.
“We strive to be the first responders for the first responders because restoring connectivity at the front line of a disaster can be a powerful force multiplier,” said Blums Pineda, senior vice president and head of Enterprise Business Group at PLDT Enterprise. “That means getting our response teams on the ground quickly to assess needs, restore services, and support connectivity where it matters most. The faster we reconnect communities and response teams, the sooner every call, every update, and every connection can help make a difference.”
The initiative underscores the importance of dependable and flexible communications infrastructure in supporting disaster response and community resilience. Through solutions such as Starlink Satellite Broadband, PLDT Enterprise continues to equip local governments, emergency responders, and institutions with technology that can help sustain communications when conventional networks face significant challenges.
As Mindanao communities move forward from disaster response to rebuilding, PLDT Enterprise, PLDT, and Smart remain committed to working alongside local partners to support response and rebuilding efforts, ensuring that connectivity remains available when it matters most.
