The first 911 regional command center is now operational, and is expected to provide faster emergency response, improved delivery of public service and real time coordination in the Visayas, the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) said Sunday, Oct. 26.
DILG Secretary Juanito Victor “Jonvic’’ Remulla said the unified 911 system uses next-generation technology and ensures that no Filipino is left behind in an emergency.
Remulla explained that for an archipelago like the Philippines with over 100 dialects, the 911 Regional Command Center in the Visayas enables the people from Cebu, Bohol, and nearby provinces to talk to a Visayan-speaking 911 operator on the other line, a service that respects the language, culture, and traditions of the people.
“For the Philippines, being an archipelago of 100 plus languages. We must respect each other. And we must tolerate and respect and be together. Despite our differences in politics, differences, and everything else. We must realize that we are Filipinos. And the service must come as one,” he added.
The first 911 Regional Command Center in Cebu revolutionizes emergency response by integrating the fire, medical and rescue services under one unified system, aligning Cebu with global standards for rapid, coordinated, and effective crisis intervention.
It uses next-generation advanced (NGA) technology with call handling and system capabilities that can pinpoint the exact location of the caller and first responders for faster emergency response. It also comes with an incident management system, consolidation of all communication channels, integration with Active Directory for call convenience, and report generation.
In support of this initiative, Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) Fire Chief Director Jesus P. Fernandez committed the full integration of the BFP with partners from the Philippine National Police (PNP), DILG, and the local government units (LGUs), and pledged to support all public information campaigns to ensure responsible use of 911.
PNP Chief Jose Melencio Corpuz Nartatez Jr. said the police force is ready with its vehicle support and equipment, such as body-worn cameras, to ensure improved emergency response.