ILOILO CITY — The city government has earmarked ₱3 million to transform the mezzanine of the Iloilo City Fire Station into a modern 911 Emergency Operations Center satellite office. The investment aims to slash response times and elevate public safety across the metro.
A Rapid Response Investment
The renovation will turn the second floor of the Fort San Pedro fire station into a fully functioning command hub. Mayor Raisa Treñas said the goal is faster, more efficient, and better emergency response for every Ilonggo. The facility will coordinate police, fire, and medical teams under one streamlined roof.
BFP‑6 Regional Director FCSUPT Edwin P. Vargas presented the architectural plans during a recent visit. The design maximizes the existing mezzanine space to house dispatchers and communication equipment. The hub will serve as a critical node in the city’s disaster preparedness network.
Building on a Top‑Rated Fire Station
The project comes as the Iloilo City Bureau of Fire Protection, led by FSupt Kim Celisio, was named one of the Top 5 Best City Fire Stations in the Philippines during the 35th BFP Anniversary. The recognition underscores the station’s consistent performance and professionalism. The satellite office will further enhance its operational capabilities.
Mayor Treñas expressed pride in the local BFP’s achievement and thanked the regional leadership for their support. She noted that the renovation is part of a broader push to modernize the city’s emergency infrastructure. The investment reinforces Iloilo City’s reputation as a safe and well‑governed urban center.
A Unified Emergency Network
The satellite office will link directly to the Unified 911 Satellite Command Center for Western Visayas, which was activated earlier this year. The system integrates emergency calls from landlines and mobile phones, routing them to the nearest responder. Operators are trained in Hiligaynon, Kinaray‑a, Tagalog, and English to ensure no caller is left unheard.
This connectivity eliminates delays caused by fragmented communication systems. A resident reporting a fire or medical emergency will receive immediate assistance from a coordinated team. The seamless network is expected to save precious minutes during life‑threatening situations.
Adding Personnel and Equipment
Beyond the building upgrade, the BFP has committed to deploying additional recruits and personnel to Iloilo City. The city government is also considering the purchase of more fire trucks to strengthen firefighting capabilities. These combined measures will multiply the emergency response capacity of the metro.
Mayor Treñas confirmed that discussions with BFP Chief Fire Superintendent Wilberto Rico Neil Ang Kwan Tiu have been productive. The addition of human and material resources ensures that the satellite office operates at full potential. For residents and investors, a well‑equipped emergency system adds a layer of security that enhances the city’s livability and property values
