PAGADIAN CITY (PIA) – During the 36th National Disaster Resilience Month (NDRM) 2024 culminating activity held at the Pavilion Hall, Provincial Government Center in Dao, the Office of Civil Defense (OCD)-9 honored its partner agencies, local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Offices (DRRMOs), and other champions of disaster resilience.
The event celebrated the collaborative efforts and dedication of various organizations and individuals in strengthening disaster preparedness and resilience across the region. Awards were presented to recognize innovative strategies, effective disaster response, and proactive measures that have significantly contributed to community safety and resilience.
In his speech, Regional Director Retired Brigadier General Ramon Ochotorena urged stakeholders and DRRM champions to maintain the momentum of their collective efforts in disaster risk reduction and management.
Let us sustain the gains we have made, replicate successful initiatives, and explore new avenues for disaster reduction. Together we can build a Philippines where no one is left behind, where every Filipino family is safe and secure, and where our communities are thriving,” he said.
The “DRRM Champion Award” was conferred to the local DRRMOs for their invaluable actions and indispensable efforts in championing DRRM in the region, particularly in the field of Capacity Building for DRRM stakeholders and selfless support to the mandates of the Regional DRRM Council-9 that greatly contributes in achieving a “Safer, Adaptive and Disaster Resilient Filipino Communities toward Sustainable Development” for the year 2024.
In his closing message, Regional Director Paisal Abutazil of the Department of Interior and Local Government, delivered by Lizette Regine Boltiador, emphasized that disaster resilience is a shared responsibility.
“Let us remember that disaster resilience is not just the responsibility of a few, but a shared responsibility. Let us commit to learning from past experiences, actively preparing for the future, and working together towards a more resilient Zamboanga Peninsula,” he said.
Bannering the theme, “Bantayog ng Katatagan at ang Pagbubuklod sa Layuning Kahandaan” (A symbol of resiliency and the boundless adherence to the goal of preparedness), the activity served as a reminder that resilience is not just about bouncing back from disasters, but about preparing ourselves, our families, and our communities to withstand and thrive despite challenges. (JPA/HTB/PIA9-Zamboanga del Sur)
