Every second counts during road accidents, and the government’s Unified 911 hotline is helping ensure faster coordination between citizens, police, and emergency responders to save lives.

In line with the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to strengthen public safety and protect the lives of Filipinos, the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) said the centralized emergency system allows authorities to deploy responders more quickly to vehicular incidents nationwide.

Earlier this year, the government tallied 1,113 road crash incidents following the holiday rush. The DILG said the National Call Center handled multiple emergency calls related to vehicular accidents, facilitating the rapid dispatch of police and emergency response teams.

In Biñan City, Laguna, a victim reported sustaining a minor knee injury after being struck by a public utility jeepney (PUJ). Responding police personnel administered first aid and assisted both parties at the police station to resolve the incident.

In Alitagtag, Batangas, a motorcycle collided with an automobile during a dragnet and hot pursuit operation, leaving two individuals injured after the car fled the scene. Police quickly brought the victims to a nearby hospital while authorities continued efforts to identify the driver.

Meanwhile, personnel from the Makilala Police Station in North Cotabato rescued a driver after his 10-wheeler truck fell off a cliff. The victim was immediately transported to the municipal hospital for treatment.

These incidents highlight how faster coordination through Unified 911 can mean the difference between life and death during emergencies on the road.

Last year, President Marcos called for stronger action to prevent further loss of lives caused by road accidents following deadly incidents at the SCTEX toll plaza and NAIA Terminal 1 that claimed 12 lives.

The government subsequently launched the Metro Manila Road Safety Plan 2024 to 2028, which seeks to reduce road crash fatalities by at least 35 percent by 2028.

Along with Unified 911, authorities continue to strengthen road safety programs aimed at improving emergency response and protecting motorists and commuters.

“Sa oras ng aksidente, hindi puwedeng mag-aksaya ng oras sa paghahanap kung sino ang tatawagan. Isang tawag lang sa 911, may tutugon agad,” the DILG said. “Unified 911 ensures that when Filipinos ask for help, the government responds immediately because saving lives will always be our highest priority.”