12/01/2017
Prepare for zero phone signal
Planning to be active online from the streets during the Sinulog? You might want a Plan B as the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) may approve the request of the authorities to shut down cellphone signals at certain areas this weekend.
Telecommunication companies themselves support the move if only to ensure the safety of everyone taking part in the festivities.
Police Regional Office-7 Director Noli Taliño has requested the NTC for the temporary shutdown of cellphone signals covering critical areas to ensure security during the Solemn Procession on Saturday and the Sinulog Grand Parade on Sunday where thousands of devotees and spectators are expected to attend.
The police will announce the areas that will be affected once the NTC gives a go signal.
The police and Cebu City officials agreed to the move in an effort to prevent terrorists from detonating bombs with the use of cellphones.
The plan came following the recent bombing incidents in Hilongos, Leyte and Davao City.
Councilor Dave Tumulak, deputy mayor on police matters, asked the public for understanding should the NTC approve the request.
He urged attendees and hospitals in the areas affected to come up with contingency plans for emergency situations.
"I hope makasabot sila nga this is for their safety. We also request the public to make contingency plans on their side labi na sa pamilya asa sila dapita mag-abot if, in case, dunay emergency," he told reporters.
Engineer Jesus Laureno, NTC-7 director, told The Freeman he has already endorsed the request to the NTC head office. He said it is "good as approved" albeit no written approval has been issued as of press time.
"Safety is our number one consideration," he said.
He explained that once cell sites are shut down, cellphone signals and mobile data, which are used for wireless access to the Internet, are affected.
Full Story: http://www.philstar.com/cebu-news/2017/01/12/1662001/prepare-zero-phone-signal
Planning to be active online from the streets during the Sinulog? You might want a Plan B as the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) may approve the request of the authorities to shut down cellphone signals at certain areas this weekend.
