Army deploys communications equipment to typhoon-hit areas

MANILA – The Philippine Army (PA) on Tuesday announced that it has deployed additional satellite phones, very small aperture terminal (VSAT), and electric generators to typhoon-affected areas to provide a communication system to hasten the government’s disaster response.

“As of today (Tuesday), we already deployed a satellite phone and VSAT at Headquarters, Western Command in Puerto Princesa, Palawan, and three VSAT in Visayas Command (VISCOM). One VSAT installed in Mactan Cebu is now functional and provides internet connectivity to the Philippine Air Force in Mactan Air Base. The other two VSAT will be installed today at VISMIN Headquarters in Lahug, Cebu City, and Tacloban City,” said PA chief, Maj. Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr., in a statement.

The newly deployed equipment is over and above the issued satellite phones, VSAT, and military radios deployed in all Army units nationwide. “In this time of crisis, communication is vital for our commanders and leaders to address the needs of our people better. Hence, we put a premium on the installation of needed communication equipment in critical areas while waiting for our telecom companies to restore their services,” Brawner added.

Private telecom companies’ telephone and internet services are not available in areas hit by Typhoon Odette since December 16.

Aside from providing critical communication to government officials, the PA also supported the humanitarian assistance and disaster relief efforts of the local government units (LGUs) in Northern and Eastern Mindanao, Eastern Visayas, and some areas in Southern Luzon.

“In collaboration with the LGUs and local disaster response unit, our soldiers conducted preemptive evacuation as early as December 15 before Odette hit Mindanao, Visayas, and some areas in Southern Luzon. Search and rescue operations followed on December 16. Our engineering units are also helping the clearing of roads while the majority of our units are helping the government in its continuing relief operation Odette affected areas,” Brawner said.

He also assured the Filipino people that the PA is working 24/7 with other government agencies and sectors to expedite the necessary assistance to reach the affected residents.