This suggestion doesn't help you or your friend right now, but a true satellite phone is made to order for times like this. It's independent of any earthbound service or facility, and all you or your friend have to do is smile and dial.
But I understand what it's like to inhabit the purgatory of 'not knowing'.
My thoughts are with you and your friend.
I haven't heard from him yet but that's not unusual. We can go weeks at a time and not talk because it's still, as he puts it "strictly 3rd world here". I've not been there but he only has a dial up internet service at work and very spotty cell coverage. He has to drive closer to town to get a signal.
checking the NZ/Australia papers and I see headlines like this..
"Two strong quakes shake Vanuatu; no reports of damage Tsunami warning passed".
He's fine. I'll catch up with him in a few days.
Thanks everyone. I wasn't in a good mood last night. That's a big quake. A "flatten everything, kill all the people" type.