Smart backs SMS-based feedback initiative

Wireless communications leader Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) is supporting a short messaging service (SMS)-based citizen feedback initiative to promote the effective delivery of basic services towards the realization of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) by 2015.
TINGOG 2015, an innovative SMS-based service, has been piloted in Tabaco, Albay. The Bicolano and Cebuano word for voice, Tingog emphasizes that this initiatives seeks to provide ordinary citizens with a voice in the development process.
Through the initiative, Tabacoenos can report on, monitor and provide feedback via SMS on the delivery of public health services, including the expanded program on immunization, maternal and reproductive health services, medical consultation, tuberculosis and nutrition.
To have their feedback heard, Tabaco residents can simply text TINGOG <space> TAB <space> NAME OF BARANGAY <space> THEIR COMMENT and send to 2015. Citizen reports will then be fielded to the concerned government agencies for urgent action.
To support the initiative, the telecom industry, including Smart, has agreed to slash the rate to P1 per SMS report sent to the special number 2015, instead of the standard P2.50 per text.
“Smart recognizes the role of wireless technology in addressing urgent gaps in basic social services by enabling communities. TINGOG 2015 empowers citizens and encourages government to provide efficient and quality social services,” said Smart Public Affairs head Ramon Isberto.
“Through technology, real-time communication and feedback is established between the public and the government. We are very excited to work with the proponents of this initiative to ensure MDG progress in Albay,” added Isberto.
He said it came as no surprise that Albay’s Tabaco City is taking the lead on this initiative.
Albay was the pilot site for Smart’s Infoboard, a web-based group broadcast service. The Albay Infoboard service allows local government units to send out vital information during calamities and emergencies. Using its feedback module, subscribers can also easily send requests for government assistance during disasters.
The Philippines, including fourth-class cities like Tabaco, has been racing towards achieving the 2015 target on UN MDGs on ending hunger, universal education, gender equity, child health, maternal health, combatting HIV/AIDS, environmental sustainability, and global partnership for development.
Under the UN Millennium Campaign, the United Nations is advocating for increased efforts to effectively promote greater support for the MDGs, as it is more critical than ever that they remain a priority in the political and public agenda in the fight against global poverty.
Smart believes that eradicating poverty is not just the government’s business but everyone’s.
“The country’s race towards meeting the 2015 Millennium Development Goals continues and we are proud to be part of initiatives towards the realization of these goals,” said Isberto.