Procurement of at least one (1) satellite phone per electric cooperative (EC) was recommended by the National Electrification Administration (NEA) for an efficient way of communication and reporting during and after the onslaught of calamities, disasters and other emergencies.

The Philippines is vulnerable to frequent earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, typhoons and other related calamities or disasters due to its location along the Pacific Ring of Fire and Pacific Typhoon Belt.

"With these natural disasters present, not only the electric cooperatives' distribution lines and facilities, but also telecommunication towers and equipment are vulnerable to damages and destruction that can hinder the immediate reporting of vital information about the status of damages and restoration efforts in the ECs' franchise areas," the agency wrote in its advisory signed by NEA Deputy Administrator for Technical Services Engr. Ernesto O. Silvano, Jr.

The procurement of satellite phones must strictly adhere to the provision of R.A. 10531 and its Implementing Rules and Regulations, particularly on the Revised Procurement Guidelines and Simplified Bidding Procedures for Electric Cooperatives.

Prompt reporting of the status of damages and restoration will guide the NEA in the process of extending assistance to the ECs. ###