Globe recently presented its innovative, technology-driven disaster resilience strategies and commitment to climate risk mitigation on the sidelines of the Asia Pacific Ministerial Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction (APMCDRR) 2024.
At a timely event jointly with Ayala Group, Globe outlined the company’s holistic approach to disaster risk reduction (DRR), which includes advanced technology solutions, robust infrastructure and community-based response measures.
“Reliable infrastructure is crucial to ensure less downtime during disasters. Globe builds and modernizes towers to withstand extreme weather, taking into account risks such as floods, earthquakes, tsunamis and volcanic eruptions. Backup power sources have also been installed to reduce network disruptions and ensure continuity,” said Yoly Crisanto, Globe’s Chief Sustainability and Corporate Communications Officer.
In partnership with the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC), Globe plays a critical role in disseminating geotagged disaster alerts as required by Republic Act 10639, or “The Free Mobile Disasters Alert Act.”
In addition to prevention, the mobile leader has established rapid response mechanisms to support affected communities, including pre-positioning resources such as Cell site on Wheels (COW), Tower on Wheels (TOW), Cell site at Less Footprint (CALF), Genset on a Truck (GOAT) and emergency base stations to maintain connectivity in disaster-affected areas.
Libracht Tawag, Libracht Charging (LTLC) stations are also deployed in disaster-affected areas to provide residents with essential communication services during power outages. Meanwhile, Globe’s telehealth provider KonsultaMD offers medical and mental health services to aid in disaster recovery.
Employee volunteers also help prepare and distribute relief supplies, reflecting Globe’s commitment to community recovery and rebuilding. Through Globe Rewards, customers can donate directly to partner organizations and provide assistance to those in need.
Globe’s commitment to climate action is also key to its disaster risk reduction strategy. In pursuing its net-zero ambition, the telecom giant is seeking to reduce the risks of extreme weather and other climate-related threats through climate mitigation.
On the other hand, during the panel discussion on “Leveraging Digital Advances for Early Warning Dissemination and Communication,” Emmanuel Estrada, Globe’s Vice President for Regulatory Development and Strategy, emphasized the importance of a multi-channel approach to emergency communications.
He emphasized that integrating mobile broadcasting with location-based SMS and various channels – such as sirens, billboards, TV, radio, mobile apps and social media – would significantly increase audience reach. Maintaining consistency across platforms is critical to avoiding confusion and ensuring information is delivered clearly and effectively.
“In times of emergency, it is critical that we leverage all existing and in-use technologies to send Emergency Alert Warning Messages (EAWM) to as many people as possible. This means that we cannot rely solely on mobile networks,” he stressed.
Estrada also shared that Globe is exploring low earth orbit (LEO) satellite technology. to ensure uninterrupted communications in areas where terrestrial networks may fail. These satellite services can extend connectivity to remote or disaster-affected areas, increasing the resilience of emergency teams.
With disaster preparedness embedded in its business model, Globe applies the principles of Resilience by Design (RD) throughout the network lifecycle, ensuring that critical infrastructure, such as satellite hubs, are safely positioned to ensure continuity of service retain.
The APMCDRR 2024 gave Globe a valuable opportunity to showcase its DRR achievements and reaffirm its commitment to protecting Filipinos through innovative technologies and sustainable practices. With more than 4,000 participants, this year’s conference focused on accelerating DRR efforts to mitigate the impacts of climate change and natural disasters across the region.
For more information about Globe, visit www.globe.com.ph.
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