The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) and the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) have restored internet connectivity in evacuation centers and key disaster response hubs in Negros Occidental after Typhoon Tino damaged telecommunications lines on November 4.
As of Tuesday, 12 Starlink satellite internet units have been deployed and activated across affected areas. DICT-Negros Occidental’s Mary Jane Agonace emphasized the importance of connectivity during disasters. “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 said.
She added, “Internet is also needed in government services for rapid response, timely coordination, and updated reports.” Units were activated between November 6 and 18, with one installed at the Office of Civil Defense-Negros Island Region headquarters.
In La Castellana, units were set up at the municipal government office, MDRRMO, and La Castellana Elementary School evacuation center. Other deployments included Moises Padilla’s municipal offices and schools, La Carlota City and its evacuation center, Roberto S. Benedicto Elementary School, and the MDRRMOs of Isabela, Binalbagan, and Don Salvador Benedicto.