MARAWI CITY (PIA) — The Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao’s (BARMM) newly launched Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (DRRM) Plan has garnered praise and support from development partners and stakeholders.
The plan, a critical governance instrument that will guide the region’s actions on disaster risk reduction until 2028, has been lauded for its comprehensive approach and commitment to building resilience.
United Nations Resident Coordinator Gustavo Gonzalez commended the BARMM government for the achievement, calling the BDRRM Plan a testament to the region’s commitment to building a safer and more resilient future. He emphasized the importance of DRR as a whole-of-society investment and highlighted the plan’s role in prevention and preparedness.
Gonzalez also assured that the UN Country team in the Philippines remains committed to supporting BARMM in turning its vision for peace and stability into actionable, inclusive, and sustainable development.
Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) Representative in the Philippines, Lionel Dabbadie, praised the effort in creating a comprehensive approach to managing disaster risks and protecting livelihoods in the region. He expressed support for the plan, emphasizing its potential to promote humanitarian response, development, and peace.
The FAO, with the support of the European Union and in partnership with BARMM READi, has also pledged its continued support for the plan’s implementation.
Office of Civil Defense (OCD) Regional Director Joel Q. Mamon also lauded the plan, noting that it represents a crucial milestone in the region’s efforts to enhance disaster preparedness and resilience. He emphasized that ongoing support and collaboration from all stakeholders is crucial for the project’s successful implementation.
Mamon further pledged the commitment of the OCD to provide technical assistance, including training and other technical expertise, to support the Bangsamoro DRRM Council’s initiatives. He stressed the importance of enhancing the capabilities of local government units in evaluating their plans and achieving compliance with the Gawad Kalasag standards. Additionally, OCD will continue to augment disaster response efforts, including the provision of non-food items.
Meanwhile, Lanao del Sur Provincial DRRM Officer Shaminoden M. Sambitory expressed his delight at the BDRRMP launching. He highlighted the plan’s significance as a crucial milestone for the Bangsamoro government and underscored the importance of local DRRM plans aligning with the regional plan.
“This plan is important to us because we cannot avoid the onset of an emergency or disaster,” Sambitory said. He also shared the move to enhance the Lanao del Sur DRRM plan aligning it with the regional plan. (APB/PIA-10 Lanao del Sur)
