PCOO, PIA and DICT launch
unified website for COVID-19 info
To disseminate all relevant COVID-19 information into one
platform, the Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO), in
partnership with the Department of Information and Communications Technology
(DICT), launches the Laging Handa Unified Website in its beta version on 20
July 2020, harmonizing all information from different sources and giving the
general public easier access to information.
The website is powered by the Philippine Information Agency
(PIA). Partner developer Dashboard Philippines created a Content Management
System (CMS) and administrative interface for the unified website for easier
and efficient interface. The DICT also ensures the security and privacy of the
website against internal and external threats.
As recommended by the Inter-Agency Task Force Technical Working
Group for Anticipatory and Forward Planning, the Laging Handa Unified Website
will be designated as an official platform for all COVID-19-related matters.
The website features the 4Ks: Kalusugan, Kabuhayan, Kaayusan,
Kinabukasan -- explaining the government's whole-of-nation approach in beating
the pandemic. It also acts as a guide to direct the public to the information
they need to acquire based from the 4Ks.
“Kalusugan” provides epidemiological data of COVID-19 cases,
COVID-19 case maps, advisories and issuances from the Department of Health.
“Kabuhayan” Tab contains direct links to other government
programs which are relevant to jobs, cash assistance, and other economic
advisories and safety nets.
“Kaayusan” Tab provides practical information for interzonal and
intrazonal guidelines, timeline of government policies and actions, and #DismissDisinformation,
which debunks unverified reports and other forms of disinformation that may
affect the overall unified response to the COVID-19.
Finally, the “Kinabukasan” Tab, contains list of government
projects which aims to help the country rise aa one. There are sections
explaining guidelines for the incoming school year, the Balik Probinsya
program, small business wage subsidy programs, and the Bayanihan to Heal as One
Act accomplishment and transparency tracker.
The website also contains frequently asked questions (FAQs)
regarding COVID-19. It also features government resolutions, issuances,
memorandum, and guidelines. It also contains news, presidential briefings, and
Laging Handa briefings.
PIA Director-General Ramon L. Cualoping III emphasized the
importance of having a unified message and a streamlined communication platform
such as Laging Handa.
"The Laging Handa Unified Website will provide accurate
information in the time of COVID-19. This will fight fake news and
disinformation that only foster panic in people,” Cualoping said.
He added, “This is in line with our mandate as government
communicators. We will Explain, Explain, Explain, until we kill the virus
called fake news.”
The website can be accessed thru: <laginghanda.gov.ph>,
<wehealasone.gov.ph>, or <covid19.gov.ph>.
