SAN FERNANDO CITY, La Union – The Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (RDRRMC) 1 honored 117 local disaster risk reduction and management councils and offices (LDRRMCOs) in the Ilocos Region during the 24th Gawad Kalasag Awards ceremony held in this city last Dec. 17.
Undersecretary Ariel Nepomuceno, executive director of the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC), emphasized that the Gawad Kalasag is the highest recognition given to individuals and organizations contributing significantly to disaster resilience and response.
“The conduct of the Gawad Kalasag Awarding Ceremony is a means to highlight and celebrate the dedication of individuals, communities, and organizations in strengthening disaster resilience and response of the country,” Nepomuceno said.
RDRRMC-1 reported that all 129 local government units (LGUs) in the region submitted their self-assessment toolkits. After evaluation, 72 percent achieved a “Fully Compliant” rating under Republic Act No. 10121, while 19 percent earned the prestigious “Beyond Compliant” rating.
Beyond Compliant LGUs:
- Ilocos Norte: Provincial government; Solsona, San Nicolas, Dingras
- Ilocos Sur: Magsingal, Sinait, Sta. Catalina, Santiago
- La Union: Provincial government; Aringay, Bacnotan, Bangar, Agoo, Sto. Tomas, San Fernando City
- Pangasinan: Provincial government; Bolinao, San Fabian, Anda, Bayambang, Manaoag, Calasiao, Bani, Mapandan, Villasis, Alaminos City
Fully Compliant LGUs:
- Ilocos Sur: Tagudin, Bantay, Sta. Lucia, Cabugao, San Juan, Lidlida, Vigan City, and others
- Ilocos Norte: Laoag City, Batac City, Bacarra, Vintar, Pinili, and more
- La Union: Luna, Rosario, Balaoan, Naguilian, Bauang, and others
- Pangasinan: San Carlos City, Dagupan City, Mangaldan, Tayug, Lingayen, and others
Special Citations and Awards
- Public High School Category: Mabilbila Integrated School (Ilocos Sur), Lumayao Integrated School (Pangasinan)
- Advanced LGU Emergency Management and Response Team: Alaminos City Response Team, PDRRMO Ilocos Sur Emergency Response Team
- Heroic Act Awards:
- Group Category: PDRRMO Ilocos Sur Storm Warriors
- Individual (Posthumous): Coast Guard PO3 Ponciano Nisperos Jr.
Highlighting the dedication and resilience of the awardees, Nepomuceno expressed his admiration for their contributions to disaster preparedness and response.
“May the awardees serve as the public’s inspiration for their remarkable contribution in safeguarding lives and properties,” Nepomuceno remarked.
He also reminded everyone of the importance of preparedness, empathy, and solidarity in the face of adversity.
He also called on stakeholders from both the private and public sectors to work together as collaboration will greatly contribute in overcoming disasters and in addressing the sufferings of the affected population. (CCMT/CGCC, PIA Region 1)
