ZAMBOANGA CITY (PIA) β The City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO) has officially activated the 911 emergency hotline, a significant initiative to deliver faster and more efficient emergency responses in the city and neighboring provinces.
The 911 hotline aims to streamline emergency assistance, ensuring prompt action for those in need. However, the CDRRMO faces a persistent challenge: prank calls that disrupt operations and hinder effective service delivery.
CDRRMO Chief Dr. Elmeir Apolinario expressed concern over the high volume of prank calls received daily, which sometimes overwhelms the hotline. He emphasized that these calls not only delay genuine emergencies but also waste valuable resources.
“We receive thousands of calls daily, but many are prank calls. These interfere with our operations. We are working closely with local police to investigate and address this issue because prank calls must not occur at the local center,” he said.
The CDRRMO has issued a stern warning that prank callers will be identified and held accountable once their actions are validated. The office is coordinating with local law enforcement to track down offenders and impose appropriate penalties.
Apolinario urged the public to act responsibly, reminding everyone that prank calls could cost lives by delaying critical assistance.
In response to the increasing demand, the CDRRMO is also working with telecommunications companies to acquire additional lines, further enhancing their capacity to handle emergency calls across Zamboanga City, nearby provinces, and the region.
The public is encouraged to use the hotline which is available 24/7 and use it responsibly to ensure that emergency services remain efficient and accessible to those who genuinely need them. (EDT/MLE/PIA Region 9-Zamboanga City)
