PLDT, Smart operating normally in Taal-affected areas, back evacuation efforts

Pangilinan-led PLDT Inc. on Monday said it, along with its mobile subsidiary Smart Communications Inc., has provided communications support to facilitate evacuation efforts following the eruption of the Taal Volcano.

"PLDT and subsidiary Smart Communications have provided communication support and load credits to Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) volunteers to help facilitate the evacuation, rescue and relief of affected Batangas residents," the company said in a statement.

The company said it is also coordinating with the Philippine Red Cross and the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) for the same purpose.

"The communication services of PLDT and Smart are operating normally in affected areas, except for those that are experiencing commercial power outages," it said.

The Manila Electric Co. (Meralco), another Pangilinan-led company, on Monday said power has been restored in portions of Sta. Rosa, Cabuyao, and Calamba in Laguna.

Meanwhile, the following areas remain affected:

• portions of Bacoor, Silang, Amadeo, Indang, Naic, Trece Martirez City, Alfonso, Cavite City, Dasmarinas City of Cavite;
• portions of Cabuyao and Calamba, Laguna; and
• portions of Talisay, Batangas.

Alert level 4 had already been raised since the phreatic eruption of the Taal Volcano, which means a hazardous eruption is "imminent."

According to the latest reports from the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council, the ashfall has also reached areas in Metro Manila. —NB, GMA News