Metro Manila Police Aim for 5-Minute Response Time

Metro Manila Police Aim for 5-Minute Response Time: A New Era of Public Safety? June 4, 2025, saw the announcement of a significant initiative by the new PNP chief in Metro Manila: a target response time of just five minutes for emergency calls. This ambitious goal aims to drastically improve police efficiency and public safety in the bustling urban area. The PNP chief, in a press briefing, stated, "We respect human rights." This statement directly addresses concerns about potential human rights violations associated with faster response times and increased arrests. GMA Integrated News conducted a field test of the new system, showing police officers responding to a simulated emergency call within four minutes. A Quezon City resident, interviewed by GMA, stated, "There's a fight happening on Airbase Street." This demonstrates the immediate impact of the initiative on the ground. The report also highlights the implementation of 8-hour work shifts for police officers in major urban areas to improve response times and ensure adequate rest periods for officers. The initiative represents a significant shift in policing strategy, balancing the need for rapid response with the protection of human rights. The success of this program will not only enhance public safety but also serve as a model for other urban areas facing similar challenges.