Muntinlupa City has become the first in the Philippines to launch a citywide early warning system to ensure that people who are deaf or hard of hearing receive timely life-saving information during emergencies.
Developed by the city’s Department of Disaster Resilience and Management (DDRM), the system uses LED beacon lights that flash color-coded signals corresponding to different types of hazards, such as tropical cyclones, earthquakes, or other emergencies. When activated, the lights emit distinct flashing patterns to alert communities across the city.
Mayor Ruffy Biazon, who led the launch alongside Representative Jimmy Fresnedi this week, said the initiative reflects Muntinlupa’s commitment to making disaster preparedness accessible to all residents.
“Through this first-of-its-kind system, we’re making sure that every Muntinlupeño, especially those who cannot hear sirens or public announcements, receives life-saving warnings when it matters most,” Biazon said.
A total of 20 Beacon Lights have been installed in key locations, including schools, health centers, and major thoroughfares, as part of the pilot phase. Expansion plans are already underway, in partnership with the Persons with Disability Affairs Office (PDAO), to extend coverage to more communities.
The new visual alert network complements Muntinlupa’s existing 17 early warning system sirens, which deliver audible alerts citywide during disasters or emergencies.
“This project is a statement that Muntinlupa’s disaster resilience is not only about infrastructure—it’s about inclusion,” DDRM head Dr. Erwin Alfonso said. —VBL, GMA Integrated News
