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The Presidential Communications Office (PCO) is set to revolutionise government communication systems to enhance the efficiency and speed of information dissemination during disasters. This digital-first approach emphasises integrating traditional media with digital tools to ensure timely and widespread alerts to the public.
PCO Assistant Secretary and Natural Calamities and Disasters spokesperson Joey Villarama discussed the ongoing plans to synchronise government state media operations. The key players include the Philippine News Agency (PNA), People’s Television Network (PTV4), Radyo Pilipinas, and the Philippine Information Agency (PIA). These entities will be optimised as central hubs for distributing crucial information, especially in emergencies like typhoons, floods, and other calamities.
One of the key elements of this upgrade is the integration of digital alerts with traditional broadcast channels. For instance, when the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) issues warnings, they are promptly relayed to dam operators. Once dam operators anticipate flooding, the communication strategy expands beyond SMS alerts to include intensified efforts across online platforms and physical outreach.
“Communication needs to be more intensive – not just through SMS and phone alerts but also through actual community engagement,” Villarama emphasised. This comprehensive approach ensures that evacuation orders and other critical instructions reach even those in areas with limited digital access.
The PCO is spearheading efforts to establish more direct communication lines between various agencies. For example, the PIA has sought direct access to emergency information from key agencies like the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), PAGASA, the DILG, and dam operators. This direct access aims to eliminate bottlenecks and enable faster action.
Another significant aspect of this digital transformation is leveraging the extensive reach of state media. Beyond television and radio, PTV, Radyo Pilipinas, PNA, and PIA are increasingly focusing on social media platforms to amplify messages. Villarama stressed that this multi-platform approach ensures the widest possible audience coverage, especially in times of crisis. Social media has become a vital tool in cascading information, allowing messages to reach even remote areas.
In addition to enhancing digital communication, the PCO plans to tap into regional and provincial bureaus of state media outlets. These local units play a crucial role, especially during communication disruptions, by providing localised information and updates in real-time.
These initiatives align with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive issued during a situation briefing on July 24, amidst heavy monsoon rains worsened by Typhoon Carina. The President’s instruction focused on reducing disaster damage through effective communication and immediate evacuation of affected areas.
Villarama highlighted how government agencies discussed communication protocols at a recent conference on La Niña preparations held at Clark Freeport Zone. The event brought together representatives from the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), PCO, and other relevant agencies. The central issue was the need for direct and real-time communication among agencies to ensure swift responses during disasters.
OpenGov Asia reported that DICT introduced the Government Emergency Communications System-Mobile Operations Vehicle for Emergency (GECS-MOVE), a cutting-edge solution designed to maintain communication in disaster-affected areas where traditional infrastructure fails. Equipped with satellite connectivity, drones, and off-road vehicles, these units enable seamless disaster response coordination in remote areas, highlighting the government’s commitment to using advanced technology for resilient and efficient emergency communication.
The ongoing efforts to integrate traditional and digital media underscore the government’s commitment to building a resilient information network. By combining the strengths of broadcast, print, and digital channels, the PCO aims to create an agile and robust communication system that can effectively respond to the fast-evolving nature of disasters. This initiative is a clear demonstration of how digital innovation and strategic planning can work hand-in-hand to safeguard lives and properties during calamities.
