TAGBILARAN CITY, BOHOL — The Tagbilaran City Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office (CDRRMO) has assumed a central role in implementing the recently launched EmergiNet system, positioning the city at the forefront of technology-driven emergency response in the region.

Following the successful MOA signing ceremony with the Tagbilaran City Fire Station at PMI Colleges Bohol – Taloto Grounds on March 31, the CDRRMO is now coordinating the city-wide integration of this revolutionary emergency response platform.

CDRRMO: The Command Center for EmergiNet Operations
The CDRRMO team, under the leadership of Department Head Mr. Gerard M. Lavadia, plays a pivotal role in implementing the EmergiNet system across Tagbilaran City. Alongside Mr. Lavadia, key personnel include Emmanuel Supremo (Unit Head, Emergency Communications), Von Angalot (Division Head, Operations and Warning), Neil Kenneth Baguio (I.T. Lead), and Mark Luigi Bandija (Communications Specialist). They are working hand in hand with EmergiNet’s Bohol distribution partners Rey D. Samputon and Aileen Jade A. Borja to ensure a smooth and effective rollout.

“As the central hub for emergency management in Tagbilaran, we’re strategically positioned to maximize EmergiNet’s effectiveness,” said Supremo during a recent coordination meeting. “Our command center will serve as the nerve center where all emergency alerts are monitored, coordinated, and dispatched to appropriate responders.”

Addressing Implementation Challenges Head-On
The CDRRMO has been quick to identify and address early implementation challenges. A key issue involves delays in receiving registration codes for the Call-for-Help (CFH) and Responder apps.

“We’ve requested direct access to assist with code distribution to overcome the current bottleneck,” explained Neil Kenneth Baguio, I.T. Lead at CDRRMO. “With our on-the-ground presence, we can significantly accelerate user onboarding ahead of our planned large-scale deployment campaign.”

Another improvement being addressed—spearheaded by Emmanuel Supremo—is enhancing the Responder App with audible background notifications, ensuring that responders never miss critical alerts even when the app isn’t actively open.

Expanding Beyond City Limits
The CDRRMO is also exploring opportunities to extend EmergiNet’s capabilities beyond Tagbilaran City through coordination with the provincial DRRM, leveraging the system’s ability to detect emergencies across municipal boundaries.

This expansion aligns with the CDRRMO’s ongoing transition to a comprehensive 911 computer-aided dispatch (CAD) system, which will consolidate all emergency communications into a single platform, with EmergiNet serving as a key component.

Public Education: A Multi-Emergency Solution
An important focus for the CDRRMO is educating the public that EmergiNet addresses all types of emergencies—not just fire incidents. This clarification follows a recent incident where a resident hesitated to use the app during a neighborhood disturbance.

“We’re emphasizing that EmergiNet is a comprehensive emergency response tool,” said Bandija. “Whether it’s a medical emergency, fire, crime in progress, or natural disaster, the system connects residents to the appropriate responders within seconds.”

Looking Forward: Phased Implementation and Simulation Exercise
The CDRRMO is planning a proof-of-concept simulation initially targeting three barangays, with potential expansion to 15 barangays as proposed by EmergiNet President and CEO Joseph James “JJ” Go-Dequito.

“Our objective is to create a simulation that clearly demonstrates EmergiNet’s capabilities in a visually engaging and realistic manner,” said Angalot. “This will help capture public attention and build confidence in the system.”

For more information, residents can follow the Tagbilaran City DRRM Office on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/TagbCityDRRMO or email inquiries to cdrrmctagbilarancity@gmail.com.

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