Mambajao boosts tourism with first emergency response command center already equipped with US Next Generation Advanced 911 technology

Camiguin Island -- one of the country’s most desired tourist destinations – is taking big steps to make itself safe, resilient and world-class in its emergency response and disaster-preparedness. Mambajao, the provincial capital, has launched its own next-generation advanced 911 emergency response center that will provide its citizens and tourists the advantages of modern, efficient emergency services related to public safety and disaster preparedness.

In order to deliver cutting-edge solutions that incorporate communication technology to enhance emergency services, the Mambajao local government unit has teamed with NGA 911, the world leader in next-generation emergency response systems that are now in use in the United States. In the amiable island with its volcanoes, lagoons, lakes, springs, waterfalls, beaches, and picturesque seascapes, the third-class municipality opened its state-of-the-art emergency response command center on Friday, October 18.

Mambajao officials led by Mayor Yñigo Jesus (Yggy) Romualdo said they knew there was a need for a centralized, advanced emergency response system that could provide real-time coordination and swift action during disasters to minimize the loss of life and property. The bustling tourist destination faces a growing demand for responsive and reliable emergency services that will ensure the safety of residents and visitors. This became the key motivation to set up the 911 system capable of quickly addressing medical, fire, police, and rescue emergencies, similar to that used in the USA and Europe.

“The increasing availability of new technology and digital infrastructure inspired us to harness the power of that technology to modernize our emergency services characterized by a more efficient, tech-based system that could offer quicker response times, better resource allocation, and seamless coordination between different agencies,” said Mayor Romualdo. He noted that existing emergency services were limited or fragmented, so local leaders invested in a next-generation 911 center that could centralize response efforts and improve service delivery across multiple sectors like healthcare, fire response, and public safety.

“As a top tourist destination, the safety and well-being of visitors is paramount. Having an advanced emergency response center adds to Mambajao's appeal as a safe and secure destination, thus contributing to its economic growth by boosting tourism and investor confidence,” the Mayor added.

He explained that tourism growth in Mambajao made them anticipate an uptick in emergencies – from accidents at popular destinations like beaches, diving spots and hiking trails to health emergency responses brought about by new viruses and other public health crises. Fires and road accidents, especially those that involve public and tourist transportation, made officials consider an integrated response system that could dispatch emergency services more quickly and accurately.

The municipality took cues from national and international cities that have successfully implemented 911 systems. The proven success of these systems in saving lives and managing emergencies more effectively became the driving force behind the decision to develop Mambajao's own center, Mayor Romualdo added.

These motivations reflect a broader vision to position the municipality as a forward-thinking, resilient, and safe community that prioritizes the well-being of its people and visitors. Mayor Romualdo said his big dream for Mambajao is for it to become “a model of excellence in disaster preparedness and emergency response, where every citizen feels safe and secure, knowing that the community is equipped to handle any crisis. We envision a Mambajao that is not only resilient in the face of natural disasters but also proactive, utilizing cutting-edge technology to predict, prepare for, and mitigate risks before they escalate. A state-of-the-art emergency response center would be the heart of this vision, seamlessly integrating services across medical, fire, police, and rescue departments to provide swift and coordinated action.”

“Every barangay would have trained volunteers, supported by a robust communication network that ensures rapid dissemination of information and resources. Whether it's a typhoon, volcanic activity, a health crisis, or daily emergencies like accidents, Mambajao would be known for its efficiency and readiness to respond. This dream encompasses not just survival but the protection of lives, livelihoods, and the continued growth of the municipality as a safe and thriving community,” Mayor Romualdo said.

NGA Philippines Country Head Robert Llaguno pledged that all 911 calls to the Mambajao DRRM Command Center will be fully recorded with seamless call and call transfer capabilities once the city's next-generation advanced 911 system goes online. The location of the caller is instantly known when someone dials 911, and the search radius is 90% accurate.

“We are proud and happy to partner with the Mambajao LGU in bringing Next Generation 911 technology of the United States to this island tourist destination. NGA's unique emergency location features, coupled with our IoT capabilities, provides the CDRRMO exceptional situational awareness information that will protect the lives of locals, tourists and responders alike. We are happy to play a role in boosting tourism in this beautiful part of our country,” Llaguno said.