PLDT has introduced the Smart SOS Dispatch, a mobile-based safety and emergency response system that instantly records and monitors incidents using a combination of communication, software, and cloud technologies.
Using Smart Communications network coverage, the Smart SOS Dispatch system is powered by a Genaker IP-based PTT (Push To Talk) and NowForce emergency response application, for rapid long-distance and high-speed communication between the command center and the first responders. It uses ruggedized, shock and water-resistant (IP68) Android devices intended specifically for emergency situations.
With SOS Dispatch, the entire emergency reporting, response and recording process becomes more instantaneous and reliable. The NowForce cloud system instantly gathers all necessary information reported by a caller to a command center. This information is recorded and processed through the NowForce CRM and sent to all concerned responding units in near-real time.
Through this automation in information assessment and transmittal, time and resources are saved as calls are instantly directed to only the most relevant and nearest response units for dispatch. The PTT app helps field teams to coordinate via 1-to-1 or 1-to-many, for rapid widespread and secure communications.
The SOS Dispatch solution is designed around the Philippine 911 system. From the built-in CRM to the mobile applications, as well as the data, voice and SMS allocations, the system aims to respond to the need of large corporate communities such as industrial zones and commercial banks, as well as local government units (LGUs) and other organizations for a more systematic emergency response experience.
An important aspect of the system is that it creates a database of crimes and incidents at the city, municipal, provincial and even at the national levels and is line with the current initiative in emergency response. It can also keep status reports and feedbacks.
The development of the solution is very timely and important as the Philippines, being a disaster-prone country, needs to beef up its emergency response capabilities especially when natural calamities such as typhoons, earthquakes, and other incidents or threats strike that affect many Filipinos.
Bacoor is first user of SOS Dispatch
Jovy Hernandez, FVP and Head of Enterprise Group at PLDT and Smart, describes the current safety and emergency response system as ‘archaic and inefficient.’ “There is no central system to log the incidents,” he said.
To streamline and optimize its emergency response capabilities, Hernandez announced that the municipality of Bacoor in Cavite is the first implementor of SOS Dispatch while the province of Ilocos Norte has already signed up with PLDT for the purchase and implementation of solution. He also said that the solution is highly beneficial for LGUs especially in barangays where responding units should be more accessible and centralized.
“We look forward to partnering with all local government units in implementing the system nationwide,” Hernandez said. “We will provide units for testing. If they like it, then they can sign for it.”
The Smart SOS Dispatch is available at an exclusive package for LGUs at P3,500 per month for each device. This package comes with a ruggedized Android device, Genaker PTT and NowForce applications, Unlimited Calling Circle and allocated SMS for all networks for 30 months.
