QUEZON CITY (PIA) — As a proactive measure in anticipation of the potential impact of Tropical Storm “Enteng,” the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) has mobilized its regional offices (ROs), including the National Capital Region (NCR), to be on high alert for emergency response operations.
DHSUD Secretary Jose Rizalino Acuzar has instructed Undersecretary for Disaster Response and Administrative and Finance Services, Randy Escolango, to issue a memorandum ensuring the preparedness of all ROs, especially those in areas like NCR that are likely to be significantly affected by the storm.
“We must always be proactive, ensuring our Regional Offices are ready to provide immediate assistance to our affected citizens,” Secretary Acuzar emphasized.
In a memorandum issued on Sunday, Undersecretary Escolango directed the Regional Directors from ROs in NCR, as well as Regions 1, 2, 3, 4A, 4B, 5, 6, 7, 8, and the Cordillera Administrative Region, to remain vigilant and on standby.
This directive follows the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council’s Memorandum No. 192 s. 2024, which calls for the activation or standby readiness of response clusters due to the looming threat posed by “Enteng.” As the head of the shelter cluster, DHSUD plays a critical role in the coordinated response.
“All concerned DHSUD Regional Offices are to be on standby immediately, closely monitoring their respective areas and facilitating emergency response and humanitarian assistance as required,” Undersecretary Escolango stated.
Regional Directors have also been instructed to coordinate with Shelter Cluster members within their jurisdictions, leveraging all available communication channels. To ensure prompt and effective action, daily situational reports are mandated from each region.
This heightened state of readiness is essential in ensuring that the densely populated NCR, along with other affected regions, can swiftly respond to any emergencies resulting from Tropical Storm “Enteng,” safeguarding the well-being of residents and minimizing disruptions. (DHSUD/PIA-NCR/AVS)
