ALABEL, Sarangani -- Defense Secretary Angelo Reyes led the inauguration of the Area Coordination Center (ACC) with other key provincial officials during Sarangani’s 10^th Foundation Anniversary over the week.

Designed to fast-track “crisis intervention response,” Provincial Social Welfare and Development Officer Hermelo Latoja explained the ACC will serve as the 24-hour point of contact between and among the different government agencies during emergencies.

“This ensures a timely, coordinated and integrated response to crisis situations,” he said. The ACC shall oversee security threats in the province that would likely impair the prevailing peace and order condition and hamper development.

Governor Miguel Escobar said the creation of the response center is geared toward holistic approach to preserve the general welfare of the province’s constituents as explicitly mandated in Republic Act 7160 (Local Government Code of 1991).

“As an LGU it is inherent upon us to look into the preservation of the well-being of the general public,” Escobar said.

He also added that the “establishment of ACC addresses the need for an integrated action towards ensuring a sustainable peace and order situation and a safe place for our people here.”

The 24-hour ACC is stationed at the capitol compound and is chaired by Escobar who would be directing the overall operations, management and the supervision of activities during disasters and emergencies.

The center also functions as a channel of communication where all vital information related to security, peace and order, and development shall be discussed and acted upon.