MISAMIS ORIENTAL (PIA) — The Office of Civil Defense (OCD)-10 recognized the outstanding efforts of 80 local government units (LGUs) in advancing disaster resilience during the 2024 Gawad KALASAG awarding ceremony on November 29.
The Gawad KALASAG—an acronym for Kalamidad at Sakuna Labanan, Sariling Galing ang Kaligtasan—is an initiative of the OCD to honor LGUs for their exceptional contributions to disaster risk reduction and management (DRRM), climate change adaptation, and humanitarian assistance.
OCD Deputy Administrator Bernardo Rafaelito Alejandro IV delivered a message from OCD Administrator and NDRRM Executive Director Ariel Nepomuceno, highlighting the award as a symbol of hope and a testament to the nation’s commitment to disaster resilience.
“The Gawad KALASAG is more than just an award; it is a catalyst for change and an encouragement for others to follow your lead. It goes beyond celebrating innovative projects and programs—it pays tribute to the unwavering dedication and extraordinary service of LGUs in transforming their commitments into action,” Nepomuceno stated.
He also stressed the urgency of addressing disasters, describing them as “unforgiving” and underscoring the need for LGUs to strengthen their advocacy for sustainable practices and disaster preparedness to safeguard communities effectively.
Meanwhile, Antonio Sugarol, OCD-10 Regional Director and Chairperson of the Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (RDRRMC)-10 emphasized the Philippines’ vulnerability to natural hazards. He noted that since 2009, the country has consistently ranked as the most disaster-prone nation globally, demonstrating the critical need for further improvement in disaster resilience programs.
“This event not only celebrates remarkable achievements but also serves as an inspiration for others to take on leadership roles in making our communities safer, more resilient, and better prepared to face any challenges brought by nature,” Sugarol said.
The Gawad KALASAG confers the Fully Compliant Award for excellence in disaster preparedness and response, recognizing numerous local government units across Northern Mindanao for their commitment to safety and resilience.
In Bukidnon, the towns of Cabanglasan, Damulog, Dangcagan, Don Carlos, Kalilangan, Kibawe, Lantapan, Malitbog, Manolo Fortich, Sumilao, and Talakag received the Fully Compliant Award.
Camiguin honored its Provincial Government alongside Catarman, Guinsiliban, and Mahinog towns.
Iligan City stood out as the sole city awardee in the region.
Meanwhile, in Lanao del Norte, the municipalities of Balo-i, Baroy, Kauswagan, Kolambugan, Lala, Linamon, Magsaysay, Maigo, Munai, Nunungan, Tagoloan, and Tangcal earned recognition.
In Misamis Occidental, the Provincial Government, along with Aloran, Baliangao, Bonifacio, Clarin, Conception, Don Victoriano, Jimenez, Oroquieta City, Panaon, Plaridel, Sapang Dalaga, and Tudela, were lauded for their achievements.
Similarly, in Misamis Oriental, the Provincial Government joined the ranks of awardees alongside Alubijid, Balingasag, Binuangan, Claveria, Gitagum, Jasaan, Laguindingan, Libertad, Lugait, Sugbongcogon, and Villanueva.
The OCD also presented the Beyond Compliant Award to recognize outstanding disaster preparedness and management efforts across several areas in Northern Mindanao.
In Bukidnon, the awardees included Impasug-ong, Kadingilan, Kitaotao, Libona, Malaybalay City, Maramag, Pangantucan, San Fernando, and Valencia City.
From Camiguin, the towns of Mambajao and Sagay were honored.
In Lanao del Norte, the Provincial Government and municipalities of Bacolod, Matungao, Sapad, Sultan Naga Dimaporo, Tubod, and Kapatagan earned the distinction.
The OCD honored Calamba, Lopez Jaena, and Sinacaban in Misamis Occidental for their accomplishments.
In Misamis Oriental, the winners were El Salvador City, Gingoog City, Opol, Salay, and Tagoloan. Cagayan de Oro City also received the same award.
These localities demonstrated exceptional commitment to disaster risk reduction and resilience, setting a standard for others to follow.
The awards underscored the region’s efforts to enhance disaster resilience and build safer communities.
The OCD continues to call on LGUs to elevate their disaster preparedness and crisis response efforts, ensuring no one is left behind. The agency reaffirmed its commitment to excellence and steadfast mission of creating a safe, secure, and resilient Philippines. (JAKA/PIA-10)
