Smart expands list of free government sites amid virus outbreak

Amid the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) outbreak, Pangilinan-led Smart Communications has boosted its service of providing free data access to government websites, allowing Filipinos to be updated about relevant news. 

Smart offers free access to relevant government sites

Smart extends the list of free government sites

The service, which began last March 11, has enabled Smart, Sun, and TNT subscribers to access the official websites of the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council and Philippine Information Agency for free using their smartphones.

The said websites are vital as they deliver official information and updates on the number and locations of persons under investigation (PUI), as well as advisories on what to do and how to stay protected.

The key to dealing with this situation is having the right information at all times. By providing free access to these sites, we empower the public by helping them get information that will enable them to protect themselves, their families, and communities, said PLDT-Smart public affairs head Ramon R. Isberto. 

The PLDT's wireless arm already offered free access to the websites of the Department of Health, especially its COVID-19 tracker, and the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology. 

Aside from free access to relevant government websites, subscribers can also make a call without being charged to the 911 emergency hotline and 8888 citizens' complaint center.