quezon city: The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) initiated an emergency procurement process to repair infrastructure damaged by Super Typhoon Pepito (Man-yi). DICT Assistant Secretary for Legal Affairs Renato Paraiso announced that DICT Secretary Ivan Uy issued the order on Monday evening. According to Philippines News Agency, Paraiso assured the public that DICT's emergency response services would be prompt. He made these remarks during the 'Kapihan sa Bagong Pilipinas' event hosted by the Philippine Information Agency (PIA). As part of the response efforts, DICT has deployed emergency response vehicles and the newly acquired Commsbox units to affected areas. The Commsbox, developed by Stellarsat Solutions Inc. and Kacific Broadband Satellites, is a portable satellite communications system designed for rapid deployment, featuring solar power and minimal setup requirements. Paraiso also mentioned that the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) is closely monitoring mobil e network operators and has tasked them with repairing the damaged lines. In cases where mobile services are disrupted, the DICT will deploy the Commsbox to maintain essential government services. In support of President Ferdinand R. Marcos' directive for government agencies to avoid extravagant Christmas celebrations, Paraiso noted that the DICT is considering reallocating funds intended for their Christmas party to a donation drive for typhoon victims. Furthermore, Paraiso highlighted the progress of the DICT's National Fiber Backbone Project. Phase one, which is a 1,245-kilometer cable network from Laoag, Ilocos Norte to Roces, Quezon City, has been completed. Phases two and three will be implemented simultaneously, with procurement already finalized and construction slated to begin in early 2025. These phases aim to connect Luzon to the Visayas, while phases four and five will extend connectivity to Mindanao, funded by a World Bank loan. The project's final phase, phase six, will complete nationwide co nnectivity by 2028, aligning with the end of President Marcos' term.