Smart ECBS Boosts NDRRMC Disaster Preparedness Efforts

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The Philippines’ disaster preparedness and response agency is now better equipped to send alerts to the public in times of calamities.

PLDT wireless unit Smart Communications has turned over communications equipment to the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) so that the government disaster agency can access Smart’s Emergency Cell Broadcast System (ECBS) and use it to quickly send public warnings to mobile phone users in specific areas.

The ECBS is designed to send urgent messages, such as evacuation notices and earthquake and tsunami warnings to activated mobile devices within the affected area.  Cell broadcast is effective in disseminating quick hazard alerts because it operates on a radio channel separate from those used by voice calls and text messages or SMS (short messaging service), which may get congested in times of calamities.

NDRRMC, the National Telecommunications Commission, and Smart, launched ECBS on a trial basis in March last year. It has since been used to broadcast quick alerts during typhoons and post-earthquake situations.  Most recently, ECBS messages were sent to Albay residents in the wake of the eruption of the Mayon Volcano.  During this trial period, the alert messages were sent by the NDRRMC to Smart which then transmitted the messages. With the turnover, NDRRMC personnel will be trained on how to use the equipment to send out messages themselves.

“The roles of NDRRMC, warning agencies, and telecommunication companies are essential in the creation and dissemination of emergency alerts. The collaboration of these three components is vital in achieving a common goal—to reduce the damage caused by natural hazards,” said Office of Civil Defense (OCD) Deputy Administrator Nicanor Faeldon in his welcome remarks. OCD is the implementing arm of NDRRMC.

“For example, in case of a strong earthquake or tsunami, we have only a few minutes to prepare. If we have a system that delivers messages quickly, we can inform the residents right away and have enough time for evacuation,” Faeldon added.

Smart invested over P500 million on ECBS to fully comply with Republic Act No. 10639 or the Free Mobile Disaster Alerts Act. RA 10639 mandates telecommunications service providers to send free mobile alerts in the event of natural and man-made disasters and calamities.

PLDT and Smart public affairs head Ramon R. Isberto pointed out that ECBS was meant to complement other channels of information such as radio, TV, print, online, SMS, and other forms of media.

“In emergency situations, it is important to use all available channels of communications.  Cell broadcast provides another effective emergency alert system that will work very well with print media, radio and TV broadcasting, two-way radio systems and SMS.  Disaster agencies and organizations must learn how to use the various communications channels effectively,” said Isberto.

During the turnover ceremony, the NDRRMC also reconvened representatives of its warning agencies to discuss preparations for the use of ECBS. These officials presented their templates and draft messages for public warnings using ECBS which had been developed in an earlier workshop.  They also discussed guidelines to define the right scenarios for using ECBS and the proper ways for crafting alert messages.

ECBS can help the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa) in its information dissemination efforts, according to weather observer Resly George Amador, who attended the workshop. “In case of severe weather situations such as during tropical cyclones, ECBS can help spread information faster to all affected communities,” he said.

The ECBS is part of Smart’s #SafePH disaster preparedness advocacy, which aims to help build more resilient communities through technology and on-ground activities.

Apart from ECBS, the other programs under #SafePH include TNT Tropang Ready, which tours schools nationwide to educate the youth on preparedness and empower them to mobilize their communities in times of calamities; and the Batingaw disaster management app, which allows users to report incidents and features tools such as a flashlight, a siren, a radio, and a directory of emergency contact numbers.

Smart has also provided communications support during earthquake drills and in areas affected by calamities in the form of Libreng Tawag, Charging and Wi-Fi (free calls, charging and Wi-Fi) stations, free text and data bundles, portable cell sites, and satellite emergency solutions, among other services.

TNC Fares Now Regulated by Govt, Says New DOTr Order

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In an effort to ensure that fares are just and reasonable, the Department of Transportation (DOTr) released a new order giving the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) the full authority to regulate and determine the fares, rates, and other related charges being imposed by Transport Network Companies (TNCs).

The new Department Order (DO) effectively amends and supersedes an earlier DO issued in 2015 (DO No. 2015-011), wherein TNCs were allowed to set their own fares, subject only to oversight by the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB).

“Hindi naman yata tama ‘yun. You can’t engage in the business of public transportation and determine your own fares, your own rules. Naiintindihan natin na mayroon silang negosyong pino-protektahan, ngunit responsibilidad din ng estado na protektahan ang kapakanan ng mga commuters,” DOTr Secretary Arthur Tugade said.

Under the new DO, the DOTr ordered a centralized regulation of TNCs and the Transport Network Vehicle Service (TNVS) units that operate under them.

As mandated by law, the LTFRB was tasked to regulate and monitor the compliance of TNCs and TNVS with policies, laws, and regulations. It is primarily in charge of issuing franchises, setting routes, setting operating conditions, and imposing fines, suspensions, and cancellations when necessary. 

Meanwhile, the LTFRB assures TNCs and the riding public that public hearings and consultations will be conducted before fares and rates are adjusted and determined.

“Ayaw na nating maulit ‘yung nangyari noong mga nakaraang taon kung saan sila [TNCs] lamang ang nagdidikta sa presyo ng kanilang pasaheng sinisingil. Ayaw na rin natin maulit yung sobra-sobrang surge sa pricing lalo na kapag peak hours. Kawawa naman commuters natin na walang laban,” LTFRB Chairman Martin Delgra III said. 

The DO acknowledges the established roles of TNCs and TNVS in providing transport services to the public. However, DOTr Undersecretary for Road Transport and Infrastructure Tim Orbos emphasizes that state regulation is necessary in order to ensure that the interests of all parties, most especially the riding public, are protected.

“Ibang usapan na kapag may buhay na nakasalalay sa negosyo mo. Itama natin yung mga maling nakasanayan. We will regulate to ensure that our commuters will be safe and protected. Ayaw namin na may madedehado,” Usec. Orbos said.

Your Alabang Guide: Where to Stay for a Premium Experience

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Alabang is the premier district South of Metro Manila, and for good reason. It is home to some of the most exclusive gated subdivisions in the country. As such, its shopping centers, office buildings, country clubs, and other commercial establishments are equally upscale and world-class.

In fact, full service and boutique hotels in Alabang are considered to be among the best and most sought-after in the metro, especially for weekenders and staycationers. Living in Alabang affords a different kind of cosmopolitan city experience with its signature vibe of casual elegance—a suburban pace in an urban setting.

If you are looking to experience the understated elegance of Alabang, checkout online deal sites like Deal Grocer where you can find the best prices on hotel and restaurant deals are guaranteed all year round. You can start out with Customers’ Choice deals, which are given five star ratings by shoppers just like you. This way, you can look forward to a five-star experience when you avail of the package yourself.

To help you decide better, here are some of the best Alabang hotels you can choose from:


Acacia Hotel Manila
Recognized by TripAdvisor as one of the top 25 luxury hotels in the country, this hotel offers a distinctive ambiance with its unique works of art that comprise its overall design and architecture. It is one of the most preferred venues in the South for important family occasions such as weddings and birthdays, as well as corporate events like seminars and conferences. Apart from great deals on hotel stays, don’t forget to check out spa and massage packages to complete your staycation experience. Their in-house restaurant serves excellent dishes, too!


Crimson Hotel Filinvest City Manila
Another world-class hotel in the South that is a popular venue for family occasions and social gatherings, Crimson Hotel’s key F&B outlet Café Eight offers one of the most sought-after spreads of international cuisine, specializing in modern Mediterranean dishes. The hotel offers an overall ambiance of plush elegance coupled with legendary Filipino service and hospitality. Be sure to check out the great deals on lunch and dinner buffets.


Azumi Boutique Hotel
This boutique hospitality establishment is fast becoming a favorite especially among young travelers and tourists. Its accommodations provide utmost value for money, and its prime location makes it easy to enjoy Alabang’s popular shopping and dining spots. Most importantly, its fresh and contemporary interiors are truly Instagram-ready. Staycation deals start at very affordable prices for two.


The Bellevue Manila
This hotel is one of the most storied in Alabang and is regarded by many locals like a second home. Rightly so, as its interiors are warm, classic, and comforting. Its accommodations are sprawling, and the food and facilities are all in high demand all year round. A stay in this hotel will definitely feel like a weekend in a familiar family estate or abode.


B Hotel Alabang
Owned and managed as a sister hotel by The Bellevue Manila, this is a younger and more contemporary establishment that is geared toward modern travelers and business clientele. Its interiors are a mix of modern contemporary and industrial-looking design elements. The lifestyle that this hotel offers is likewise more cutting-edge, active, and dynamic. Its location in Madrigal Business Park brings it closer to the city conveniences of Alabang.


The best hotel deals in Alabang
The secret in snapping up the best deals online is to always be prepared. Even if you’re just surfing around, if you chance upon a deal too nice to give up, don’t hesitate to click! If you have your schedule on-hand and your budget in mind, it should not be difficult to latch on to a great deal with you see one. Always remember to check out the best and reputable online deal sites from time to time so that you don’t miss out on great hotel and restaurant offers in the metro.