Unified 911 command centers to get next-level dispatch software under UPCAD
MANILA — Unified 911 command centers in the Philippines will soon receive a major technology upgrade aimed at strengthening emergency response and critical communications. The new system is designed to support the Department of the Interior and Local Governments’ (DILG) push for a world-class emergency response network.
The upgrade includes advanced dispatch software and durable field devices meant to help first responders coordinate faster and safer during emergencies. It is expected to elevate national 911 operations by improving how calls, data, and teams move from command centers to the field.
The Unified Platform for Communications & Dispatch
The Unified Platform for Communications & Dispatch (UPCAD) will bring a field-tested dispatch console built for high-pressure public safety environments. It will also equip responders with rugged smartphones, feature phones, and tablets designed to meet durability standards for industrial and mission-critical work.
The technology was showcased during the Unified Dispatch and Communications Forum held at Solaire North on Tuesday, Jan. 21. The event focused on strengthening coordination through “connected command” and highlighted global best practices for dispatch and frontline response.
Representatives from agencies involved in peace and order, disaster response, aviation safety, maritime security, and emergency services attended the forum. Officials from the embassies of France and the United States were also present during the discussions.
How the upgrade improves emergency response
Demonstrations at the forum showed how the platform can deliver instant and rich data directly to responders. The system can also track real-time positions using geolocation services to boost coordination from command centers to incident locations.
UPCAD supports secure mission-critical data messaging and enables mission-critical video through live feeds shared from the scene. This setup is designed to improve situational awareness, allowing agencies to react with more precision when conditions shift rapidly.
The integrated approach was also presented as TOTR, or Team On The Run, which expands emergency coordination beyond traditional radios. It uses modern cellular networks and data tools to deliver secure, feature-rich communication during high-stakes situations.
The system is set to be integrated into national 911 services in February. Developers said it is built to ensure secure and reliable communication during emergencies despite climate, physical, and situational challenges on the ground.
NGA 911 Philippines and Next Generation Core Services (NGCS), together with PLDT and ePLDT, hosted the event. Streamwide S.A. and Rug Gear collaborated in the forum, supporting demonstrations of mission-critical communication tools designed for emergency response.
NGA 911 Philippines President Ishka Villacisneros said Unified Dispatch is built around real-time coordination across agencies. She said the goal is for responders and command centers to see one operational picture with calls, intelligence, and data moving securely without confusion.
Villacisneros added the Philippines remains the only country in Southeast Asia with a complete next-generation 911 call system. She said neighboring countries are looking at the Philippines as a model for public safety in the region.
NGA 911 Philippines Country Head Rob Llaguno said emergency response requires national and local government coordination alongside the private sector and frontline services. He said unified dispatch and communications will improve interoperability and ensure citizens are properly served, protected, and given peace of mind.
