Connecting Communities in Catanduanes
- Agata Klat | Communications Director
- 6 days ago
- 3 min read
Updated: 5 days ago
The island province of Catanduanes, situated along the Pacific Ring of Fire, is among the areas in the Philippines most exposed to natural disasters. Regularly affected by typhoons and flooding, the island often experiences disruptions to power, communication, and transport networks, making coordination and recovery more difficult.
Help.NGO has been working in Catanduanes for several years, supporting the Provincial Government and Catanduanes State University (CatSU) in strengthening local resilience and improving access to technology. In early 2024, Help.NGO’s field team—Nicole, Ian, and Osh —visited the island to deploy connectivity equipment, document impact stories, and train partners in the use of satellite systems and digital tools.
Supported by Amazon Web Services (AWS), these efforts combine modern satellite technology with community partnerships to improve access to information and strengthen resilience across the island’s most vulnerable sectors—from healthcare and disaster response to education, research, and sustainable livelihoods.
Catanduanes Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO)
The Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office serves as the island’s central coordination hub during typhoons and emergencies. Help.NGO provided a Starlink terminal to the PDRRMO’s Emergency Operations Center, ensuring uninterrupted access to weather data, communication, and coordination even when traditional networks fail.
Juan M. Alberto Memorial District Hospital
Located on the island’s western coast, the Juan M. Alberto Memorial District Hospital is one of four district hospitals serving nearly 300,000 residents. Unstable internet connections and a lack of cellular signal had long limited the hospital’s ability to communicate with the Department of Health and access national systems. With a Starlink terminal provided by Help.NGO, hospital staff can now transmit reports, coordinate referrals, and access databases in real time. The improved connectivity supports timely healthcare delivery and more efficient management of essential services.
Catanduanes State University and ACE-HEMS Programme
At Catanduanes State University, connectivity now supports both research and community engagement. The university’s Climate Change Center and its programme Academe for Community Empowerment through Holistic and Ecosystem-based Approaches for Mangrove Crab Sustainability (ACE-HEMS) use satellite internet to coordinate with coastal communities and fisherfolk. Researchers and local farmers can now exchange data and best practices in real time, supporting sustainable aquaculture and improving livelihoods.
Cabuyoan Fisherfolk Association
In the coastal barangay of Cabuyoan, home to more than 50 fishing families, internet access was once unavailable. Through Help.NGO’s installation of a Starlink terminal, fisherfolk can now communicate directly with researchers at Catanduanes State University and sell their products without intermediaries. This connection helps reduce costs, increase profits, and strengthen sustainable fishing practices, contributing to both economic stability and marine conservation.
Nisos Variety Store in Pandan
The Nisos Variety Store in Pandan, locally known as a sari-sari store, has become a model of digital inclusion in rural Catanduanes together with award winning Philippine Start-up Packworks. With reliable internet, the store operates cashless payments, online inventory management, and digital coordination with nearby resellers. Beyond its business use, the open Wi-Fi connection supports residents with access to education, communication, and online services, transforming the local shop into a impactful community hub.
HABI Foundation
In Baras, Help.NGO’s collaboration with the HABI Foundation has revitalized the traditional abaca weaving industry. Before the installation, unstable connectivity made it difficult for weavers to reach customers and markets. With consistent internet access, artisans now promote their crafts online, coordinate with partners, and participate in virtual workshops. This integration of technology and tradition helps sustain livelihoods while preserving a centuries-old cultural heritage.
By combining satellite communication and community-based technology initiatives, Help.NGO and its partners continue to support communities in one of the Philippines’ most disaster-prone provinces, helping them stay connected, prepared, and better equipped to face future challenges.
This initiative forms part of Help.NGO’s broader Connectivity and Resilience Programme, supported by Amazon Web Services (AWS), which enables the scaling of technology-driven solutions for disaster response and sustainable development across the Philippines.
Acknowledgements
This project was made possible through the work and dedication of the Help.NGO field team:
Nicole Fernando, Cloud Advocate and Engagement Engineer
Ian Tianchon, Cloud Engineer
Matt Cua, Innovation Director
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