Bacolod City – Twenty-one local government units of Negros Occidental received sets of High-Frequency Radio Single Side Band (SSB) intended for disasters or emergencies, particularly for coordinating rescue operations when established networks are down.
Each set of HF Radio SSB distributed to various LGUs has a 50-amps regulated power supply and automatic battery charger; a backup 21-plate battery, and coaxial cable connectors.
HF SSB can cover large distances and maintain communications when other systems may be compromised during disasters. It is especially helpful in remote areas where VHF and satellite communications are unavailable, according to a press statement issued by the provincial government of Negros Occidental.
Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson led the ceremonial turnover of the units recently at the Provincial Capitol Social Hall in Bacolod City.
It is part of the province’s commitment to strengthen the coordination and response of disaster managers and stakeholders during emergencies and disaster management, through the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office, according to Lacson.
The recipients are municipalities of Don Salvador Benedicto, Calatrava, Murcia, Toboso, E.B Magalona, Hinigaran, Hinoba-an, Moises Padilla, San Enrique, Pontevedra, Valladolid, Pulupandan, Isabela, La Castellana, and Manapla and cities of Sagay, Victorias, San Carlos, Kabankalan, Sipalay, and Bago. (Gilbert Bayoran via The Visayan Daily Star)