Manila, June 24 -- In a significant move to broaden the scope of emergency response, the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) announced that the upcoming Unified 911 Emergency System will not only handle crime reports, health emergencies, fire incidents, and suspicious activities but will also address mental health concerns.

In a statement on Tuesday, Remulla said a desk in the 911 command center will be designated for mental health intervention and trained professionals from the National Center for Mental Health (NCMH) will be deployed to provide psychosocial support.

"Mayroon kaming counselors na kung may nararamdaman ang ating kabataan, o alam n'yong may nararamdaman kayo, pwedeng tawagan at mayroong pwedeng rumespo...