Local official advocates unification of Mandaue's emergency alert system with National Telecommunications Commission notices
Mandaue City to Integrate Early Warning System with National Telecom Commission's Emergency Cell Broadcast System
Mandaue City is set to enhance its disaster communication and preparedness by integrating its Early Warning System (EWS) with the National Telecommunications Commission's (NTC) Emergency Cell Broadcast System. This move aims to provide timely, localised, and direct alerts to residents via mobile phones, enabling faster and more precise evacuation actions.
The City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO) will be able to send flood warnings and evacuation notices specifically targeted to communities along vulnerable areas such as the Butuanon River basin. This localised and real-time alert system is expected to improve the relevance and clarity of disaster information.
Unlike traditional sirens that may be inaudible during heavy rain or over large areas, cell broadcast messages can reach residents directly on their mobile phones regardless of ambient conditions. This ensures that crucial information gets through when it is most needed.
Moreover, the messages can be transmitted alongside nationwide warnings issued by agencies such as PAGASA (Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration), the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC), and others. This integrated system consolidates local and national disaster information streams for comprehensive situational awareness.
The integration could provide critical extra minutes or hours for residents to prepare and evacuate, potentially reducing damage and loss of life. The model for expanded regional disaster preparedness is already being adopted by neighbouring Cebu City, indicating that integration promotes collaborative regional resilience through shared technological and procedural frameworks.
The Mandaue City Council has passed a resolution requesting the NTC to integrate Mandaue's EWS into its Emergency Cell Broadcast System. The City Government of Mandaue has also approved the establishment of 16 Early Warning Systems (EWS) across flood-prone areas. Councilor Carlo Fortuna, who proposed the EWS covering the Butuanon River and downstream communities, emphasised the need for Mandaue City to expand its EWS due to a recent flooding event.
The resolution directed the City Government of Mandaue to coordinate with the NTC and other relevant agencies to ensure technical compatibility and compliance with broadcast standards. Copies of the resolution will be furnished to the NTC Regional Office, the Office of Civil Defense, and the Office of the City Mayor for appropriate action.
However, the timeline for the integration of Mandaue's EWS into the NTC system, the specific number of Early Warning Systems that will be integrated, and which agencies, besides Pagasa, NDRRMC, and PhilHealth, will be involved in transmitting localised disaster alerts if the integration is successful, are yet to be determined. Additionally, the potential costs associated with the integration have not been mentioned.
Councilors Fritz Villamor and Eugene Andaya emphasised the importance of fast, localised alerts to minimise casualties and prevent further damage to property and livelihoods. Councilor Fortuna said that integrating the local EWS into the national system ensures that Mandaue City residents will never be caught off-guard again during sudden floods, as was the case during the flooding on August 15, 2025.
