Modern technology to hasten PH inter-connectivity system development

The Emergency National 911 Summit aims to boost the country’s interconnectivity capability through the seamless system of technology, Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Benjamin “Benhur’’ Abalos Jr. said on Wednesday, Aug. 14.

With the Philippines being an archipelagic state with 7,000 islands, Abalos asserted that the only way to be connected is through the seamless system of technology, which is the 911.

Abalos hopes to extend the “revitalized 911’’ system to the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), with the focus being with the Philippine National Police (PNP) since their assistance is most warranted during emergency situations.

Since only 30 DILG personnel are taking the emergency calls, Abalos noted that the number has increased to 150 call takers with aid coming from the PNP, BFP and the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP).

However, Abalos clarified that the 24-hour shift even with the 150 emergency call takers is simply too taxing.

The lack of ample manpower will be compensated by modern technology as discussed in the summit where the LGUs and other stakeholders are in attendance.

On the Double Barrel, EJK Issues

On the sideline of the event, Abalos stressed that “our war on drugs will be on the basis of the oath that we have undertaken taking in mind the Constitution,’’ explaining that its implementation will be legal and is in accordance with the law.

Under the BIDA program, Abalos pointed out that the scheme is geared towards “demand reduction and supply reduction’’ where the PNP, Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) and National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) pursue the community approach strategy in the “demand reduction’’ aspect.

Stressing the anti-illegal drug accomplishments, Abalos noted that a total of P33.8 billion worth of shabu was confiscated in the first two years of the Ferdinand “Bongbong’’ Marcos Jr. administration, the highest achieved in history of any Philippine president.

Further, Abalos assured that the illegal drug operations are legal with no EJK (extra-judicial killing) incidents, telling the police that there should be no EJKs as “sagrado ang buhay (life is sacred).’’

Reiterating that anti-drug operation should be in accordance with the law, Abalos killing suspected drug personalities may be valid in cases of self-defense.