OCD condemns use of emergency alert system for political campaigning

DAVAO CITY (April 7)—The Office of Civil Defense (OCD) has strongly condemned the unauthorized and inappropriate use of the Emergency Cell Broadcast System (ECBS) for political campaigning. It warns that the misuse of this life-saving technology could endanger public safety and undermine national disaster response efforts.

In an official statement, the OCD confirmed it had received multiple reports from residents in various provinces who claimed to have received ECBS alerts containing political content—including messages urging voters to support specific candidates.

“These messages were designed to mimic emergency alerts, creating confusion and potentially fostering public complacency during actual disasters,” the OCD said.

The OCD clarified that the ECBS is strictly intended for emergencies, such as issuing immediate alerts during earthquakes, typhoons, flooding, tsunamis, and other serious public safety threats. It is not authorized for political messaging, advertising, or private communication.

What Is ECBS?

The Emergency Cell Broadcast System is a government-mandated, carrier-supported alert mechanism that allows agencies like the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) to deliver real-time alerts to mobile users within specific geographic areas.

Unlike SMS or app-based notifications, ECBS messages are pushed directly to phones and appear on screen without user intervention, making them vital tools during life-threatening situations when seconds matter.

The system cooperates with the country’s major telecommunications providers, Globe Telecom and Smart Communications. Both telcos issued statements affirming they do not permit the use of ECBS for non-emergency purposes or provide ECBS services to private individuals, companies, or political organizations.

The OCD has referred the matter to the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) for further investigation and legal action.

“We are actively coordinating with relevant agencies to ensure that those responsible are held accountable to the fullest extent of the law,” the OCD said.

Officials warned that misuse of the system violates national protocols and jeopardizes public trust, especially in a country frequently exposed to natural disasters. The OCD emphasized that desensitizing the public to emergency alerts could have life-threatening consequences, particularly in high-risk areas.

The OCD urged citizens to remain vigilant and to report any further suspicious ECBS messages, especially those that appear to contain political, commercial, or misleading content.

“Together, we can protect the integrity of our emergency alert systems and ensure they serve their intended purpose—keeping the public safe,” the statement read.

As election-related activities intensify ahead of the May 2025 national and local elections, authorities are also reminding political parties and candidates to adhere to ethical campaign standards and to avoid misusing public safety infrastructure for partisan purposes.

The NDRRMC and OCD reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining the integrity and reliability of the ECBS.

“The ECBS is a public safety tool—not a political platform,” the OCD stressed. “Its misuse will not be tolerated.”

The OCD reiterated that any manipulation of the system, especially during the campaign season, threatens to erode public confidence in emergency alerts, and may lead to legal consequences for those responsible.