Smart Communications has recently inked a new agreement with Thuraya (News - Alert) to offer Emergency Preparedness Solutions in the Philippines. Both of the companies signed this new multi-year deal to offer voice services and a handset registered as SmartSAT.
Thuraya will offer the SmartSAT package along with its SatSleeve (iPhone or Android (News - Alert)) or the rugged XT handset with new price plans. This entire bundled package is ideal for first responders, relief workers and government agencies during disaster recovery operations.
Smart’s Chief Wireless Adviser, Orlando Vea said, “The severity of Typhoon Haiyan demonstrated the importance of having mobile satellite services to support critical rescue and relief operations. We are appreciative of Thuraya’s collaboration with us in the on-going disaster recovery effort. We chose to partner with them again to leverage their innovative mobile satellite handsets and affordable price packages to offer a strong and reliable solution that will aid emergency preparedness for Filipinos.”
Thuraya will also offer its SmartSAT as part of an emergency preparedness kit for citizens and will also work as an important communications backup, broadcasted through satellite for enterprise, government, leisure and media customers.
Bilal El Hamoui, Vice President of Distribution at Thuraya, says, “The Philippines has one of the highest rates of natural disasters in the world. We are working with Smart to ensure that its citizens, government and humanitarian agencies are well prepared in case of any emergency with reliable mobile satellite connectivity.”
Hamoui said that Thuraya’s satellite handsets will provide high-quality, easy-to-use services in areas lacking terrestrial coverage or where communication infrastructure has been damaged or destroyed. “The expansion of our agreement is a testament to the growing confidence that Smart has in Thuraya since the launch of PhonePal,” Hamoui added.
Smart Communications, Inc. is the Philippines’ primary wireless provider, committed to strengthening the community service initiatives on various fronts.