Smart phones turn into disaster-preparedness kits with new app

MANILA, Philippines - A new mobile application that could turn smart phones and tablets into disaster preparedness kits was launched on Monday, with officials are optimistic that it would help reduce casualties in times of calamities.

'Batingaw' provides users tools they can use during emergency like siren, compass, flashlight and strobe light.

The program also allows users to share information about the situation in their respective areas and to access useful information like the contact numbers of responders and safety tips.

Named after the Tagalog term for a large bell, Batingaw can give agencies and the public immediate access to disaster warnings, advisories, location data and disaster mappings.

It can also serve as a reference tool as it contains the texts of the Philippine Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Act of 2010, national disaster response plan, national crisis management core manual and other related documents.

“We are confident that if used properly, the application can help reduce casualties. This is part of our information and education campaign,” National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) Executive Director Alexander Pama said.

“With this mobile application, we have added another strategy to reach out to people with helpful tools right at their fingertips,” he added.

Defense Secretary and NDRRMC Chair Voltaire Gazmin said the application could save many lives because it promotes awareness about the need to prepare for disasters.

“It will definitely lower the number of casualties,” he added.

Batingaw can be downloaded for free at the App Store and the Google Play Store. The program was developed through the efforts of the Office of Civil Defense, Smart Communications and Tudlo, a technology startup based in Cebu.

“We support initiatives that utilize mobile phone as a tool for disaster preparedness. These days, almost everyone has a mobile phone and this can be a valuable lifeline during emergencies,” Smart public affairs group head Ramon Isberto said.

Vince Loremia, co-founder of Tudlo, said Batingaw would provide ordinary people the opportunity to promote safety.

“Even ordinary people can do their part by sharing accurate on-ground information that could save lives and proactively eek safety during disasters using their mobile device,” Loremia said. (with a report from Irene Bongcales)