Metro Manila, Philippines – DITO Telecommunity Corporation mobilized emergency communications support for families affected by the ash explosion of Mayon Volcano on May 2, deploying personnel and connectivity resources at the designated evacuation center in Barangay Tagaytay Elementary School, Camalig, Albay, approximately six kilometers from the identified danger zone.
By mobilizing its Oplan Libreng Tawag and Tulung-Tulong DITO programs, DITO is providing critical connectivity and aid to hundreds of residents currently sheltering just outside the perimeter of the volcano’s danger zone.
The ash explosion on May 2 prompted precautionary evacuations from the municipalities of Guinobatan and Camalig. As of May 8, more than a hundred families or 435 people and counting are sheltering at the evacuation center who are primarily residents of Brgy. Anoling. A total of 137 evacuees have connected to DITO WiFi service — and still counting.
To address the immediate needs of the evacuees, DITO Telecommunity has established the following on-site services:
· Uninterrupted connectivity: Free WiFi access and dedicated call services are available to all evacuees to ensure they remain connected with loved ones during the crisis.
· 24/7 on-site Assistance: DITO personnel are stationed at the center to manage operations and provide around-the-clock support to oversee operations and assist the affected families.
· Essential provisions: In addition to connectivity, DITO is distributing free drinking water to families through the Tulung-Tulong DITO booth.
· LGU coordination: DITO is working in active coordination with Local Government Units (LGU) and Barangay officials to manage nighttime operations and scale support as the number of evacuees increases.
“In times of crisis, staying connected is not a luxury. It is a lifeline,” stated DITO Telecommunity CEO and President Eric Alberto.
“We remain committed to ensuring that no evacuee is left without the means to reach their family or access critical information as we continue to monitor the situation in Bico,” he said.
This initiative is part of the company’s commitment to public safety and disaster resilience through sustained connectivity programs across the Bicol Region. As local authorities anticipate a further increase in the number of displaced residents from the municipalities of Guinobatan and Camalig, DITO has confirmed it is prepared to scale its emergency resources and deploy additional mobile connectivity units to new evacuation sites as needed.
DITO’s network infrastructure in the area remains fully operational , providing the critical foundation needed to sustain and expand these relief efforts. Adel Tamano, chief commercial officer of DITO, added, “The company continues to closely coordinate with LGU officials and relevant government agencies to ensure seamless communication support for all evacuees and emergency responders on the ground.”
For updates on DITO’s relief efforts and network services, visit www.dito.ph or follow DITO’s official social media channels.
