The Asia Pacific Alliance for Disaster Management- Philippines (A-PAD PH), in collaboration with the City Government of San Fernando, organized a multisectoral partnership meeting on February 22, 2024, at Otel Pampanga. The objective was to enhance disaster resilience partnerships among various stakeholders within the city.
The event, themed “Investing in Disaster Risk Reduction for Resilience: Roles of Multi Sectors,” through the initiative of the CSF Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO) brought together stakeholders from Central Luzon, particularly Fernandinos, to share insights, build relationships, and promote collaboration in advancing disaster risk reduction efforts. CDRRMO Chief Raymond Del Rosario welcomed the key players/participants.
CSF Mayor Vilma Caluag’s remarks on disaster risk reduction in San Fernando provide a concise yet insightful overview of the city’s strategies and experiences. She likely highlights key initiatives undertaken by the city, such as proactive planning, community engagement, and infrastructure improvements, all aimed at enhancing resilience to disasters. By sharing San Fernando’s journey, Mayor Caluag offers valuable lessons and inspiration for other communities grappling with similar challenges, fostering a culture of learning and collaboration in disaster preparedness efforts.
Among the partners/participants: Regional offices of the Department of Health, Office of Civil Defense, University of the Assumption, Angeles University Foundation, Our Lady of Fatima University, Pampanga Delta Echelon Eagles Club, DX3 Cabalen Radio, Emancipation Guardians For Progress International Inc., K5 Multi Purpose Cooperative, Pampanga Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Central Luzon Media Association (CLMA) Pampanga, Kapisanan ng mga Brodkasters ng Pilipinas (KBP) Pampanga, Philippine Information Agency, Philippine Medical Association – CL, Pampanga Medical Association, and Social Action Center of Pampanga.
The meeting, held as part of the city’s “Kaganapan 2024” celebration, aimed to highlight the importance of disaster resilience within the community. Key representatives from various sectors participated in productive discussions, emphasizing the need for a coordinated approach to disaster risk reduction and management.
During the event, A-PAD PH Executive Diector Athea Peñaloza expressed gratitude to the San Fernando City LGU for their partnership and support in organizing the meeting. Participants were encouraged to share insights and experiences related to their CDRRMO programs, services, gaps, and challenges.
In her opening remarks, A-PAD PH Executive Director Athea Peñaloza pointed out, “Each individual and organization has a crucial role in disaster risk reduction for resilience. Individuals can contribute by being informed and prepared, while organizations play a key role in implementing policies, providing services, and fostering collaboration. Together, they create stronger and more resilient communities.”
Moreover, the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) thoroughly provided valuable inputs on the Disaster Risk Profile of the region, offering an overview of the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) with a focus on Priority 3 – reducing disaster risk factors. While the CSF-LGU shared insights on the legal framework and governance structure for Multisectoral Partnership (MSP) in DRRM, drawing from their extensive experience in the field.
Additionally, representatives from each organization introduced themselves and highlighted potential collaboration opportunities with stakeholders in DRRMO. This segment aimed to facilitate networking and partnership building among participants, fostering a unified approach to disaster resilience efforts.
The meeting, which is also supported by Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, concluded with an open forum where participants engaged in fruitful discussions, addressing queries, sharing best practices, and exploring avenues for collaboration. A synthesis of key takeaways emphasized the importance of coordination, knowledge-sharing, and community engagement in effective disaster risk reduction strategies.
As the meeting came to a close, A-PAD PH expressed gratitude to all participants for their active engagement and reiterated the organization’s commitment to supporting collaborative efforts in disaster risk reduction across the Philippines.
A-PAD PH, established in 2016, remains committed to fostering collaboration among humanitarian organizations, civil society, the private sector, and government units to strengthen disaster resilience across the Philippines. It is in collaboration with A-PAD Japan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Indonesia and Korea.
A-PAD PH is led by President Gilbert Albero.
During the National Disaster Resilience Month in July 2022, the Department of Science and Technology in Central Luzon (DOST), in collaboration with the Office of the Civil Defense (OCD), unveiled the inaugural Mobile Command and Control Vehicle (MOCCOV) in Central Luzon, featuring triage technology. The launch took place in ceremonies attended by member agencies of the Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council in the City of San Fernando, Pampanga.
The MOCCOV, pioneered by Filipino Inventor Mr. Dennis Abella, is a portable facility designed to orchestrate planning, coordination, and resource management during emergencies. It boasts an array of functionalities tailored for crisis scenarios, including a built-in weather station system, drone capabilities, satellite communication, and surveillance equipment. Additionally, the system houses a triage facility, rescue gear, and medical apparatus to enhance emergency response efforts.
On June 28, 2017, former President Rodrigo Duterte signed Executive Order No. 29, mandating the observance of The National Disaster Resilience Month (NDRM) “throughout the country through the conduct of activities relative to building of disaster resilience covering the four thematic areas: prevention and mitigation, preparedness, response and rehabilitation and recovery.”