Government sets up emergency radio communications for disasters

MANILA, Philippines – The government has established an emergency radio communications protocol in Metro Manila to ensure the timely exchange and dissemination of information during times of disasters.

Gabriel Cordoba, commissioner of the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC), has issued an order setting up an emergency radio communications protocol for the Metro Manila Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (MMDRRMC).

Cordoba said common communication system under Memorandum Order 04-09-2012 would serve as an effective means of obtaining and providing relevant information to MMDRRMC and would establish a basic and alternate means of communication between MMDRRMC, the Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA), and other government agencies.

He added that the system would help set communications and messaging protocols that would ensure timely, accurate and correct handling of messages.

According to him, the agency would issue four channels for the radio communication requirements of MMDRRMC with four Metro Manila sectors.

Under the MMDRRMC Interim Organization, these sectors include West Metro Manila (Manila and Navotas), East Metro Manila (Pasig, Marikina, Taguig, San Juan, Pateros and Mandaluyong), North Metro Manila (Caloocan, Malabon, Valenzuela and Quezon City), and South Metro Manila (Las Pinas, Makati, Paranaque, Muntinlupa and Pasay).

Furthermore, he said the NTC also assigned two standby frequencies on Simplex mode that could be used by the MMDRRMC.

Cordoba stated in the order that the agency would coordinate with all civic and volunteer groups in relaying messages to MMDRRMC during times of disasters.

An average of 20 tropical cyclones or storms enters the Philippine area of responsibility every year.