ILOILO City — The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) is banking on the newly launched Unified 911 system to significantly reduce emergency response times across Iloilo City and Iloilo Province, even as some fire trucks age and communication dead spots continue to challenge responders.
Fire Chief Superintendent Wilberto Rico Neil Ang Kwan Tiu, officer-in-charge of the BFP, said the success of emergency operations depends less on the number of available vehicles and more on how quickly emergency personnel can reach people in distress.
The initiative comes as Iloilo City and Iloilo Province maintain a combined fleet of 92 fire trucks, with all municipalities now equipped with at least one firefighting unit, according to BFP Region 6 data.
“What is important is the response time. A response that arrives after one or two hours — or no response at all — serves little purpose. The key is fast and efficient response,” Kwan Tiu said.
Speaking during the launch of the Unified 911 system on June 4, Kwan Tiu emphasized that improved coordination among fire, police, medical and other emergency services is expected to accelerate emergency deployments and enhance public safety.
He said emergency agencies continue to invest in mobility and communication capabilities to ensure responders can quickly reach affected communities.
“We have been implementing programs that enhance mobility and communication. In the police, for example, there are motorcycles, radios, body cameras, vehicles, and other equipment that help personnel reach areas faster and respond more effectively. The same principle applies to all emergency responders,” he said.
Kwan Tiu noted, however, that communication infrastructure remains a critical concern, particularly in remote communities where cellular coverage is weak or nonexistent.
“There are places where there is no signal. We are coordinating with telecommunications companies because there are areas they have not yet reached. We are prepared to help facilitate the establishment of towers and satellite facilities, especially in communities that need them,” he said.
The BFP chief said government agencies can help telecommunications providers coordinate with local government units and barangay officials to address concerns that may delay the installation of communication facilities.
“Sometimes there are concerns in communities regarding the establishment of towers. We can help engage local government units and barangay officials so these concerns can be addressed because communication is a vital component of public safety and emergency response,” Kwan Tiu said.
While all municipalities in Iloilo now have fire trucks, BFP officials acknowledged that several units are already aging and may require replacement or upgrading in the coming years.
Despite these challenges, Kwan Tiu expressed confidence that stronger inter-agency coordination under the Unified 911 system, coupled with continued investments in equipment and communications infrastructure, will further improve emergency response capabilities throughout Iloilo and the rest of Western Visayas./PN
