Following the national launching of the country’s Unified 911 on September 11, 2025, the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) officially launched the Unified 911 Visayas Regional Command Center in Central Visayas on October 25, held at PLDT Jones, Cebu City. This initiative aims to further provide better and more comprehensive emergency responses across the Visayas Regions, anchored on the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to enhance government services and ensure that every Filipino can access immediate emergency assistance.
The event was led by DILG Secretary Juanito Victor “Jonvic” C. Remulla, marking another significant step toward building a more integrated and responsive emergency response system nationwide.
Joining him at the historic launch was Police Lieutenant General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr., Acting Chief of the Philippine National Police (PNP), who reaffirmed PNP’s commitment to strengthen coordination among government agencies for faster and more reliable emergency operations across the country.
“This project brings to life the vision of the President for a Bagong Pilipinas—a safer, more organized, and more responsive nation. PNP fully supports the Unified 911 System as an essential instrument for saving lives. Through this initiative, help will reach people faster, more efficiently, and more meaningfully,” said PLtGen Nartatez.
Meanwhile, Cebu Governor Pamela S. Baricuatro expressed her gratitude to Police Regional Office 7 led by Police Brigadier General Redrico A. Maranan, Regional Director, for achieving a 41% reduction in crime rates throughout the province. She likewise extended her appreciation to President Marcos and Secretary Remulla for making the Unified 911 System a reality, pledging the full support of the provincial government in its implementation.
Also in attendance during the event were Cebu City Mayor Nestor Archival, Mandaue City Mayor Thadeo Jovito “Jonkie” Ouano, Lapu-Lapu City Mayor Cindi King Chan, DILG Region 7 Director Leocadio T. Trovela, Atty. Lecel R. Llamedo of National Police Commission 7, and Fire Director Jesus P. Fernandez of the Bureau of Fire Protection.
In his message, Secretary Remulla emphasized that the Unified 911 System is designed to “respect the language, culture, and traditions of every Filipino,” underscoring inclusivity as a core feature of the initiative.
He further announced that 200 new police vehicles will be distributed to Central Visayas by January 2026, a move aimed at enhancing police mobility and strengthening law enforcement capabilities in the region.
Secretary Remulla also introduced the “Skynet” initiative, a pioneering project deploying long-range drones capable of real-time aerial surveillance during emergencies.
“For 24 hours a day, seven days a week, drones will patrol our skies. When a 911 call comes, these drones will take off immediately to observe, capture live images, and ensure everyone’s safety,” he said.
He likewise issued a strong warning against prank callers, noting that offenders may face legal charges for Unjust Vexation, as such actions delay real emergency responses and put lives at risk.
In this new era of governance, this initiative reflects the spirit of true public service,ensuring that every call for help receives an immediate, coordinated, and compassionate response for every Filipino in times of need.
