Connectivity restored across Negros Occidental following Typhoon Uwan—DICT

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By TechWatch PH Staff

The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) continues to restore internet and mobile services across Negros Occidental, following widespread disruptions caused by Typhoon Uwan.

In line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to ensure that every Filipino remains connected even during calamities, the DICT, together with the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) and major telecommunications companies, has been working swiftly to bring back connectivity in 35 affected cities and municipalities.

As of 7:00 p.m. on November 11, the department reported steady progress in the restoration efforts. Network availability has reached 95 percent for DITO, 97 percent for Globe, 80 percent for Smart, and full restoration at 100 percent for Converge.

Under the ongoing Oplan Signal Matatag initiative, DICT and NTC are coordinating closely with telecom operators and local government units to address remaining connectivity gaps and ensure that services are fully restored in all affected areas.

The department’s efforts follow the last update from the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) on November 10, which reported that Typhoon Uwan (international name: Fung-wong) had weakened further as it moved over the coastal waters of Bacnotan, La Union, early Monday morning.

According to PAGASA’s 5 a.m. advisory, the typhoon’s eye was located over Bacnotan’s coastal waters, packing maximum sustained winds of 150 km/h near the center, gustiness of up to 230 km/h, and moving west-northwestward at 25 km/h.

DICT emphasized that the ongoing restoration showcases the spirit of Digital Bayanihan, reaffirming the government’s commitment to keep Filipinos online and connected—from Luzon to Visayas to Mindanao—no matter the circumstances.