Emergency Numbers Philippines for Expats
Emergency numbers for the Philippines: 911 is the single number for all emergencies. Also save Coast Guard 175, Philippine Red Cross 143, and local building security, barangay hall and nearest hospital.
Community-written and moderated by volunteers. Based on real experiences and official sources — offices may interpret rules differently.
Processes may vary by office, city or province. Always confirm with your local agency before traveling.
Summary
Emergency numbers for the Philippines: 911 is the single number for all emergencies. Also save Coast Guard 175, Philippine Red Cross 143, and local building security, barangay hall and nearest hospital.
Key facts
What you'll need
- 1Smartphone with charged battery
- 2Philippine SIM card (for local calls)
- 3Internet connection (for apps)
- 4Pen and paper to save numbers
Steps
- 1
Save these numbers in your phone NOW
- 2
Program 911 as your emergency shortcut
- 3
Download the PAGASA app for weather alerts
- 4
Save your local police station number separately
- 5
Know the nearest hospital to your home
- 6
Share your location with a trusted contact
Costs
| Item | Approx. cost |
|---|---|
| General emergency | 911 |
| National Emergency Hotline | 911 |
| Police | 117 |
| Fire Department | 116 |
| Ambulance/Red Cross | 143 |
| Coast Guard | 175 |
| NDRRMC (Disaster Council) | 911-5061 |
Timing
911 is the universal emergency number in the Philippines (since 2016). It connects to police, fire, and ambulance. For disasters, call 117 or 911-5061.
Local variations
["Manila: Response times 15-30 minutes for police, 20-45 for ambulance", "Cebu: Similar to Manila", "Provincial areas: Response can be 30-60+ minutes", "Islands: Limited emergency services \u2014 self-reliance essential"]
This section reflects real experiences. Always confirm with your local office before traveling.
Common issues
- 911 calls are free from any phone, even without load
- Ambulances may charge a fee (₱500-2,000) — this is normal
- Private hospitals require payment upfront before treatment
- Keep emergency cash (₱5,000) at home for hospital visits
Overview
Save these numbers in your phone today. In an emergency, every second counts.
The single number: 911
911 is the single emergency number for all emergencies in the Philippines. Police, fire, ambulance, rescue - dial 911.
Other important numbers
- 175: Philippine Coast Guard
- 143: Philippine Red Cross
- 117: Police (alternative)
- (02) 8888-7681: NDRRMC (National Disaster Risk Reduction)
Local numbers to save
- Your building security
- Your barangay hall
- Nearest hospital
- Your embassy or consulate
- Your landlord or building manager
- Your insurance provider
Apps to download
- PAGASA: Weather and typhoon alerts
- Red Cross Philippines: Emergency locator
- 911 Philippines: Official emergency app
Tips
- Save emergency numbers as favorites in your phone
- Keep a printed copy at home in case your phone is dead
- Know the address of your nearest hospital
- If you cannot speak Filipino, say English and the operator will connect you to an English-speaking dispatcher
Frequently asked questions
Quick answers to the most common questions about this process.
Yes, 911 calls are free from any mobile or landline, even without prepaid load.
911 operators speak English. You can also text 911 for emergencies.
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Edit history
1 revisions · every change is recorded and reversible
- v1CurrentPublishedSep 5, 2026ATby Archipelago TeamEN: Original onlyES: Reviewed translation