COMMUNITY | PLDT-Smart Ligtas Kit boosts LGU disaster response
The kit has proven to be a critical tool in remote and high-risk areas, where communication infrastructure is often limited.
Source: Smart Communications
Local governments across the Philippines are improving disaster preparedness by adopting the PLDT-Smart Ligtas Kit, a compact emergency communications bundle aimed at addressing communication gaps during disasters.
The kit has proven to be a critical tool in remote and high-risk areas, where communication infrastructure is often limited. In Kapangan, Benguet, local officials once had to physically reach isolated barangays to deliver updates. Since receiving the Ligtas Kit, the municipality has seen improved information dissemination and continued zero disaster-related deaths, thanks to better coordination and community compliance.
“The ability to send information easily to barangays has led to real improvement,” said Erick Abangley, Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Officer (MDRRMO) of Kapangan.
In Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao del Norte, the Ligtas Kit played a key role during a nighttime flood that cut off several barangays. The MDRRMO was able to relay real-time updates, aiding in faster rescue coordination and preventing casualties.
“The Ligtas Kit helped us communicate real-time updates and manage rescue efforts more efficiently,” said Monesa Ayao-Sale, head of the MDRRMO. “Everyone was informed and ready.”
Beyond emergency alerts, LGUs are using the kit in a variety of ways. In Kapangan, it now functions as the emergency operations center’s 24/7 hotline. In Catarman, Northern Samar, the kit’s solar power bank enables responders and residents to keep devices charged during outages. In both Catarman and Datu Odin Sinsuat, the kit is also being used for hazard monitoring, community training, and disaster assessments.
The tool has also encouraged more community participation. In Catarman, residents in flood-prone barangays now send photos and updates to local officials, enabling earlier evacuations and quicker response times. Responders also noted an unexpected benefit: being able to stay in touch with family during operations, which has boosted morale.
All kit deployments include Emergency Communications Training, which equips responders to use the tool more effectively. Ayao-Sale said this training enhanced awareness campaigns and community outreach, especially in hard-to-reach areas.
“Knowing how and when to use the Ligtas Kit allows us to get the most from it,” Abangley added. “It’s not just about the tool—it’s about capacity.”
So far, PLDT and Smart have distributed 56 Ligtas Kits nationwide. The initiative supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals on sustainable cities and climate action by helping communities build resilience through innovation and training.
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