The United Arab Emirates' telephone security hotline system could be the model for the Philippines' own hotline network, Tourism Secretary Richard Gordon said in Manila yesterday.

Gordon said peace and order could be enhanced if the hotlines to the police, hospital, electricity and water systems and other quick response communications systems were well publicised.

Gordon said such communications facilities, if provided in critical areas like southern Basilan and neighbouring provinces, could be of effective use to help the police and the military stop terrorism in the areas concerned.

Basilan is a hotbed of Muslim separatist rebellion, particularly by the Abu Sayyaf, which is notorious for their kidnap and ransom. Gordone said in UAE the General Department of State and Security recently launched a confidential hotline for the public to report information that may help protect justice and security.

Dubbed the Al Ameen Service, it was set up on the orders of Gen. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Minister of Defence and Chairman of Dubai Police and Public Security.