OLONGAPO CITY — The local government of Olongapo formally launched Tuesday its 911 emergency hotline number during its 55th cityhood anniversary.
Mayor Rolen Paulino Jr. said they have tested the system for a few months now as part of its fine tuning, adding that essential personnel were also trained by the 911 system in the US.
Paulino disclosed that last month it was Olongapo 911 that handled the call all over the country, to as far as Basilan, after the 911 system in National Capital Region (NCR) went down.
“I am proud that we are more than capable with this system, this is another achievement for the city. Now Olongapoenos will just have to remember 911 and not every hotline number for emergency such as fire, accidents, or medical emergencies,” Paulino said.
The 911 command center is under the office of the city disaster risk and reduction management office headed by Angie Layug.
“Our command center is composed of our rescue personnel, PNP, BFP and barangay so that easy access to our personnel and assets can be deployed immediately,” Paulino said.
He also appealed to the public to use the hotline number for emergencies only.
“I am very happy and proud that Olongapo is one of the few LGU that has this kind of system, it is a big help for our residents.” He added.
Olongapo City is known for its Gawad Kalasag Hall of Fame awarded rescue personnel.
