Prank callers may be banned from using PH's 911 hotline — PNP

The Philippine National Police (PNP) is urging the public to use the Unified 911 emergency hotline responsibly.

According to a report of the Philippine News Agency (PNA), the PNP said prank callers may be banned from using the country's 911 hotline.

PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said individuals who make three prank calls may lose access to the hotline.

He explained that users can be blocked because the identify the phone numbers and locations of prank callers.

Once blocked, prank callers will no longer be able to access the 911 hotline.

“The 911 hotline is a lifeline that can save lives. We appeal to the public to use it responsibly and avoid prank calls, as every false report can delay assistance to people facing real emergencies,” Nartatez said.

The PNP said prank calls can congest the system and prevent individuals in genuine need from accessing life-saving assistance.

The police issued the appeal on Friday after the activation of Unified 911 satellite command centers in Iloilo, Ilocos Norte, Isabela, and Leyte.

This initiative is part of ongoing efforts to strengthen emergency response capabilities nationwide.

The Unified 911 project started on September 11 last year as a project of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG).

This hotline replaced more than 30 local emergency numbers, providing a streamlined way for Filipinos to seek assistance.

-Paraluman News