MANILA, Philippines -- In a bid to fight bogus alarmist messages that cause unnecessary panic, Malacañang has launched the "Official Text Message" system to provide accurate updates to the public in times of disasters and other emergencies.

The government has linked up with major telecommunications firms, namely PLDT/Smart, Globe, and Digitel/Sun, for the establishment of the free public safety advisory system via text messaging.

In a public-private partnership in public safety and disaster communication, the telecom firms have volunteered for the timely broadcast of accurate messages to their subscribers during typhoons, floods, earthquakes and other emergencies.

The “Official Text Message,” that will come from concerned government agencies, will come from the mobile number 1456.

Secretary Herminio Coloma Jr. of the Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) said the new public safety advisory program seeks to avoid panic and provide guidance to citizens to safeguard lives and properties during typhoons, floods, earthquakes and even security emergencies.

“In times of crisis, accurate information breeds confidence and silence breeds fear. It is vital for the government to give the correct advisories to the public to avoid panic over unverified statements and hoax messages,” Coloma said.

The National Telecommunications Commission has already issued a memorandum on the guidelines for public safety broadcast of text messages during calamities and other emergencies. (Genalyn D. Kabiling)