DA-VA-O City, Davao City! This is the place where the first Mindanaon president of the Philippines hails from. Mindanao refers to someone who is from Mindanao, and Davao City is part of Mindanao.
I would say too that currently Davao City is the most progressive city not just in Mindanao but in the whole Philippines.
I came here in 2004 to find peace mentally and emotionally. Fortunately, I was also assured of my physical safety because aside from having the most responsive police force, Davao City also had its own Central 911.
Yup, 911 like that of the U.S.!
Central 911 was originally a collaborative street lighting project of the local government of Davao City and Davao Light and Power Company, aimed at improving the lighting facilities of Davao City to minimize crime rates. Later, it became a centralized system that assisted residents under emergency situations.
Due to public demand, Central 911 was launched in 2002 as the frontliner for Medical Assistance for Emergencies, Search and Rescue Operations, Fire Suppression, and Augmentation through its own K-9 services. The quality and efficient services of Central 911 is also due to its strategic coordination with some of Davao City authorities like Davao City Police Office (DCPO), City Transport and Traffic Management Office (CTTMO), Public Safety and Security Command Center (PSSCC), Philippine Coast Guard. (Note: Central 911 and Public Safety and Command Center are located beside each other.)
Back in the days, Mindanao had the image of a chaotic area in the Philippines. This has changed when Davao City’s peace and order situation ranked number 1 in the Philippines under the leadership of former Mayor Rodrigo Duterte, who later became the president of the country. He continuously strengthened his support for 911 to combat crimes. Most people here are disciplined and law-abiding because the mayor before executed laws firmly.
I personally experienced 911 when a classmate in grad school called me up because her ex-boyfriend wanted to get in her house but could not because she gave instructions to her people not allow the guy to get in. The guy was drunk and kept banging the gate and shouting in the middle of the night, disturbing the neighbors who were already asleep. Like me, she was a newcomer here in Davao at that time. I told her to call 911. She did and in less than 15 minutes the responders came, picked up the guy and brought him to the police station. Since then, the guy never bothered her.
Because of 911’s quality and efficient services, Davao City was publicized nationally. Then, there was an influx of migrants from Luzon and Visayas, and even from other countries since 2016.
Just this February 2024, Davao City’s Central 911 has been inducted into the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council's Hall of Fame. In recognition of the heroic service and bravery, dedication, and unwavering commitment to public service of the responders, Davao Central 911 received Special Awards for the Best Government Emergency Management Response Team Category. This award was very important because it again boosted the morale of responders who work round-the-clock to deliver efficient emergency services.
Today, the city is rising with so many subdivisions (both for high-end and low-cost housing) and condominiums, hence the terrible traffic! Still, the peace and order are well-managed only that some other political enemies are trying to destroy the city. Thanks to 911 for always being there no matter what!
Thumbnail Photo edited with Pic Collage.