The PVD requires that the LOC be tuned, and the PVD turned on. It makes more sense to simply check the Nav Display to see if the FMC position is located on the runway symbol. If it is not, then either the FMC position is wrong or the wrong runway is being used. This method does not require any specific action by the flight crew and can be used on any runway. It quickly becomes second nature. Keep it Simple.
Of course it only works if the airplane has GPS, which I assume the accident airplane did have.
And in case some of you remember the incorrect datum used at Taipei, that problem was fixed several years ago and the positions shown in the data base are accurate.