Law Summary
Composition of the Emergency 911 National Program
- National Hotline Public Safety Answering Center managed by the DILG.
- Local government units (LGUs) encouraged to run their own 911 call centers under supervision of the national center.
- Primary Service Responders: Bureau of Fire Protection (lead in fire and medical emergency services) and Philippine National Police (lead in public safety and crime prevention).
- Major Support Service Responders include DPWH, DOH, DOTr, Armed Forces, NBI, Bureau of Immigration, Philippine Coast Guard, PDEA, MMDA, LGUs, NGOs, medical institutions, and other recommended entities.
- Private telecommunications companies must ensure uninterrupted connectivity to the 911 hotline.
- Alternative communication methods like SMS, online platforms, and social media may be integrated.
Call Reception and Charges
- All calls made to the 911 service are free of charge.
Establishment and Structure of the Emergency 911 Commission
- Replaces the Patrol 117 Commission as the policy-making and supervisory body.
- Composed of key government secretaries, agency representatives, LGU president, and two private sector members.
Functions and Responsibilities of the Emergency 911 Commission
- Formulate policies and guidelines for the 911 program.
- Recommend crime prevention and public safety measures to the President.
- Submit semi-annual reports on program implementation.
- Perform additional duties as directed by the President.
Emergency 911 National Office
- The former Patrol 117 Development Office is renamed and functions as the implementing office.
- Headed by an Executive Director appointed by the President.
- May establish regional offices.
Duties of the Emergency 911 National Office
- Acts as Secretariat to the Commission.
- Implements and monitors the emergency program.
- Institutionalizes service responder networks.
- Conducts readiness tests and personnel training.
- Accredits NGOs, medical facilities, and volunteers.
Government and Private Sector Cooperation
- All government agencies and LGUs are mandated to assist in program implementation.
- Private sector encouraged to participate and advocate public safety.
Handling of Fraudulent or Prank Calls
- Such calls are punishable under existing laws and regulations.
Implementation Guidelines and Organizational Structure
- DILG to formulate implementing rules within 60 days.
- The Emergency 911 National Office will review and revise its organizational structure subject to DBM approval.
Funding
- Initial funding charged to FY 2018 911 Emergency Services budget.
- LGUs fund their local call centers.
- Service responders fund their support roles.
Transition and Continuity
- Transition from Patrol 117 structures to 911 structures to occur within 60 days without service disruption.
- Existing call rate arrangements continue until full implementation.
Repeal and Amendment of Previous Orders
- EO No. 226, AO No. 36, and inconsistent issuances are repealed or modified.
Separability Clause
- Invalid provisions do not affect the validity of the remainder of the Order.
Effectivity
- The Order takes effect immediately upon publication in a newspaper of general circulation.