SAN FERNANDO CITY, La Union (PIA) – In a continued effort to enhance disaster preparedness and resilience, the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) Ilocos conducted the National Disaster Resilience Month (NDRM) Summit at the La Union Convention Center in this city on Nov. 5.
The summit, which gathered 300 individuals composed of local government officials, disaster response teams, and key stakeholders from across the region, focused on improving strategies for disaster response and recovery, as well as fostering stronger community engagement in disaster risk reduction within the region.
The one-day event, initially planned for July, was rescheduled to November due to weather disturbances, allowing for a more comprehensive focus on disaster preparedness and response strategies.
The summit featured a series of workshops and discussions, highlighting the importance of collaboration between various government agencies, local communities, and non-government organizations in crisis situations.
Key topics included the integration of climate change adaptation measures into disaster risk management plans, improving early warning systems, and strengthening local capacity for disaster response.
“We are here to ensure that our communities are not only prepared but also resilient in the face of any disaster,” said Carmelita Laverinto, then officer-in-charge of OCD Ilocos.
Laverinto adds that the NDRM Summit promotes collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and the integration of best practices, empowering communities and stakeholders to better anticipate, manage, and recover from disasters.
“Through events like this, we can foster a culture of preparedness and build a stronger network of responders and community leaders who can act swiftly and efficiently when disaster strikes,” Laverinto mentioned.
The summit also emphasized the need for sustainable and inclusive practices that address the unique needs of vulnerable populations, including the elderly, children, and persons with disabilities.
By prioritizing equity in disaster response, the OCD Ilocos aims to ensure that no one is left behind in times of crisis.
Participants were also introduced to new disaster response technologies, including mobile applications for real-time information sharing and the latest advancements in risk mapping and resource management.
These innovations, according to experts, will help streamline communication and coordination during emergencies.
Meanwhile, Lorenzo Consibido, one of the participants from Bangar town, said through collaboration and continuous learning, the local DRRMs’ vision is to enhance disaster preparedness and response, safeguarding lives, livelihoods, and the environment.
“We, the participants of the NDRM Summit, are committed to fostering resilient communities by prioritizing proactive planning, collaboration, and continuous improvement. Thus, as public servants, we strive to strengthen disaster preparedness and response systems, ensuring sustainable development and a safer, more resilient future for all,” he said.
As part of the summit’s closing activities, participants committed to implementing the strategies discussed and forming a regional task force to monitor progress.
The summit concluded with a call to action for greater community involvement in building a culture of disaster preparedness, ensuring that the region is better equipped to face future challenges posed by natural hazards.
The OCD Ilocos continues to lead efforts in creating a disaster-resilient Ilocos Region, and the NDRM Summit serves as a testament to the commitment to safeguard communities and reduce disaster risks across the province. (AMB/KJCR, PIA La Union)
