In times of emergency, knowing the right number to call can be the difference between safety and disaster.
The Philippines has a range of emergency hotlines designed to provide immediate assistance in various situations.
This guide will help you understand which helplines to contact in specific emergencies.
General Emergencies
Philippine National Emergency Hotline: 9-1-1
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- For any kind of emergency, the most important number to remember is the Philippine National Emergency Hotline: 9-1-1.
- This central helpline connects you to the appropriate emergency service whether it’s medical, fire, or police assistance.
National Center for Mental Health (NCMH)
The National Center for Mental Health (NCMH) provides essential mental health services and support for individuals experiencing psychological crises. Available 24/7, their crisis helpline offers immediate assistance and counseling to those in need.
- Crisis Hotline: 0917-899-USAP (8727)
- Trunk Line: 989-USAP (8727), (02) 8531-9001 to 10 local 201
Law Enforcement and Public Safety
Philippine National Police (PNP)
In case of crime or any law enforcement needs, contact the Philippine National Police.
- Emergency Hotline: 9-117 / 8723-0401 / 8537-4500
- Main Line: (02) 8722-0650
- Text Hotline: 0917-847-5757
Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP)
If you encounter a fire emergency, immediately call the Bureau of Fire Protection.
- Direct Line: (02) 8426-0219 / (02) 8790-8400
Health and Medical Assistance
Department of Health (DOH)
For health-related emergencies, including urgent medical situations or public health concerns, contact the Department of Health.
- Hotline Numbers: 8711-1001 to 02 / 8740-5030
Philippine Red Cross (PRC)
The Philippine Red Cross provides a wide range of emergency services including disaster response and blood donations.
- General Hotline: 9-143 / 8790-2300
- National Blood Center: (02) 8527-8385 to 95 / (02) 8527-0000
Disaster Response and Management
National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC)
For natural disasters and calamities, the NDRRMC coordinates response efforts.
- Operations Center: (02) 8911-1406 / (02) 8912-2665 / (02) 8912-5668 / (02) 8911-1873
- Trunk Lines: (02) 8911-5061 to 65 local 100
- Regional Contacts:
- National Capital Region: (02) 8421-1918 / (02) 8913-2786
- Region I: (072) 607-6528
- Region IV-A: (049) 531-7266
- Region IV-B: (043) 723-4248
- Cordillera Administrative Region: (074) 304-2256 / (074) 619-0986 / (074) 444-5298 / (074) 619-0986
Office of Civil Defense (OCD)
The Office of Civil Defense handles comprehensive disaster management.
- General Hotline: 8911-5061 to 64
Social Welfare and Development
Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD)
For social welfare concerns, such as child protection or disaster assistance, reach out to the DSWD for support services to vulnerable populations.
- General Hotline: 8931-8101
- Disaster Response Unit: (02) 8856-3665 / (02) 8852-8081
- Text Hotline: 0918-912-2813
Maritime and Coastal Emergencies
Philippine Coast Guard (PCG)
For maritime emergencies, including incidents at sea, contact the Philippine Coast Guard.
- Hotlines: 8527-8482 / 8527-3877
- Telefax: (02) 8527-8481 to 89 / (02) 8527-3880 to 85
- Text Hotline: 0917-PCG-DOTC (0917-724-3682) / 0918-967-4697
Transportation and Road Emergencies
Department of Transportation (DOTr)
Transportation-related emergencies, such as accidents or public transport issues, should be reported to the Department of Transportation.
- General Hotline: 7890 / 8654-8400 LOC. 362
- Action Center Hotline: (02) 8790-8300 / (02) 8726-4925
Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB)
For issues related to land transportation services, such as public utility vehicle concerns, contact the LTFRB.
- 24/7 Hotline: 1342
- Public Assistance and Complaints: (02) 8426-2515 / (02) 8426-2534
- Text Hotline: 0921-448-7777
Land Transportation Office (LTO)
The LTO handles the issuance of driver’s licenses, vehicle registration, and the enforcement of traffic laws and regulations. Their services aim to promote road safety and facilitate the smooth operation of land transport.
- Text Hotline: Text LTOHELP to 2600 (All networks)
- Trunk Line: (02) 8922-9061 to 63
Philippine National Railways (PNR)
The Philippine National Railways (PNR) is the country’s primary railway operator, providing essential commuter and long-distance train services across Luzon. Established to enhance transportation efficiency, the PNR plays an important role in connecting major cities and rural areas, facilitating the movement of people and goods.
- Hotlines: (02) 5319-0041 / (02) 5319-0169
Light Rail Transit Authority (LRTA)
The Light Rail Transit Authority (LRTA) is responsible for overseeing the operations and maintenance of the Light Rail Transit (LRT) systems in Metro Manila, Philippines.
The LRTA manages the LRT Line 1 and LRT Line 2, which are essential for the daily commute of thousands of Filipinos.
- Hotline: (02) 8647-3479 to 91 / (02) 8647-3452 / (02) 8647-3491 local 29846/ 29854
Metro Rail Transit (DOTr-MRT3)
The Metro Rail Transit (DOTr-MRT3) is a major component of Metro Manila’s public transportation system, providing efficient and rapid transit across key areas in the city.
- Hotline: (02) 8929-5347 local 2810
Utilities and Infrastructure
Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH)
For infrastructure-related emergencies, such as road and bridge damages, contact the DPWH.
- Hotline: 165-02
- Trunk Line: (02) 5304-3000
Manila Water
Manila Water is responsible for providing reliable water services to millions of residents in the eastern part of Metro Manila and Rizal Province.
- Hotline: 1627
Maynilad
For water supply issues, Maynilad provides essential services and support.
- Hotline: 1626
- Text Hotline: 0998-864-1446
National Power Corporation (NAPOCOR)
Electricity is essential for daily life, and any power-related emergencies should be promptly reported to the National Power Corporation (NAPOCOR).
- Hotline: (02) 921-3541
Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA)
The MMDA handles a range of urban concerns, including traffic management, flood control, and public safety.
- General Hotline: 136
- Trunk Line: (02) 8882-4151 to 77
Agriculture and Environmental Concerns
Department of Agriculture (DA)
For emergencies impacting agriculture, such as pest infestations or natural disasters affecting farms, reach out to the Department of Agriculture.
- Hotline: 8929-0140 LOC. 401 / 402
Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA)
PAGASA is the national meteorological and hydrological agency responsible for monitoring and forecasting weather conditions in the Philippines.
Their services include providing weather updates, storm warnings, and climate advisories to help the public prepare for and respond to various weather-related emergencies.
- Trunk Line: (02) 8284-0800
Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS)
PHIVOLCS is the agency tasked with monitoring and studying volcanic and seismic activity in the Philippines.
They provide timely information and warnings about earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and other geotectonic phenomena to promote public safety and preparedness.
- Trunk Line: (02) 8426-1468 to 79
Violence Against Women and Children (VAWC)
DSWD –NCR Ugnayan Pag-asa Crisis Intervention Center
The DSWD –NCR Ugnayan Pag-asa Crisis Intervention Center provides support and immediate assistance to women and children experiencing violence and abuse. Their helplines offer a lifeline to those in need, promoting safety and access to necessary services.
- Hotlines: (02) 8734-8639 / (02) 8734-8654 / (02) 8734-8626 to 27
PNP-Women and Children Protection Center (WCPC)
The PNP-Women and Children Protection Center (WCPC) is dedicated to protecting women and children from all forms of abuse and exploitation. The center’s helpline facilitates swift reporting and intervention, helping to safeguard vulnerable individuals and provide them with the necessary support.
- Hotline: (02) 3410-3213
NBI-Violence Against Women and Children Desk (VAWCD)
The NBI-Violence Against Women and Children Desk (VAWCD) focuses on investigating and addressing crimes involving violence against women and children. Their helpline empowers victims to report incidents confidentially and receive prompt investigative and protective services.
- Hotlines: (02) 8523-8231 to 38 / (02) 8525-6028
Philippine Commission on Women (PCW)
The Philippine Commission on Women (PCW) advocates for the rights and welfare of women across the Philippines. Their helplines provide a resource for women facing violence, offering guidance, support, and referrals to appropriate services to help them achieve safety and justice.
- Hotlines: (02) 8736-5249 / (02) 8736-7712 / (02) 8736-4449
Conclusion
Knowing these emergency helplines is necessary for receiving quick and effective responses in various situations.
Keep this guide handy and share it with your family and friends.
Preparation and awareness can save lives.
Stay safe!