Davao City has ramped up its efforts to combat unexpected flooding, ensuring the safety and preparedness of its citizens, particularly during the rainy season. The City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO), under the leadership of PCol. Alfredo Baloran (Ret), has implemented measures to enhance the city’s resilience in the face of frequent localized thunderstorms brought on by the La Niña weather phenomenon.
Speaking at the I-Speak session on Thursday, PCol. Baloran emphasized the importance of readiness. “Our office is constantly monitoring and coordinating with BDRRMCs, volunteers, and members of the response clusters. Always mi prepared (We are always prepared),” he said, highlighting the proactive stance of the CDRRMO in disaster preparedness.
Boosting Coordination and Resources
The CDRRMO has been working closely with the Barangay Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Councils (BDRRMCs) and response cluster members, ensuring round-the-clock monitoring and prompt response. They encourage regular check-ins at the operation center to keep track of resources and personnel available for deployment.
“Gina-remind nato sila always, especially kung naa’y mga weather disturbances, to check in diha sa atoang operation center aron naa ta’y mga counted members of resources and responders na ato’ng ma-deploy anytime (We always remind them, especially if there are weather disturbances, to check in at our operation center so that we have a count of resources and responders that we can deploy any time),” Baloran added.
To bolster the city’s capacity, the CDRRMO has recently acquired additional emergency equipment and is set to receive ten more rescue vehicles this month. The office is also enhancing its resource allocation to ensure that responders can swiftly reach affected areas, particularly in remote communities.
Early Warning Systems and Flood Monitoring
Advanced technologies are now playing a crucial role in the city’s disaster response strategy. Cameras installed in upstream areas monitor water levels, providing crucial data to predict downstream flooding.
“From there sa ato’ng camera in the upstream, [makita kung] muabot ang tubig diri sa downstream area. It will take almost two to three hours pa, so we still have enough time to prepare and implement the pre-emptive evacuation (From there in our camera in the upstream, we can then determine whether the water will reach the downstream area. Since it will take roughly two to three hours, we still have time to get ready and carry out the preventative evacuation),” Baloran explained.
Complementing this system, an early warning mechanism has been established in the upper reaches of the city, allowing for timely alerts and evacuations.
Community-Focused Initiatives
Recognizing the need for localized disaster management, the CDRRMO has set up satellite substations in barangays such as Malabog and Marilog. These substations bring vital services closer to residents, particularly in hard-to-reach areas.
“Our office is continuously upgrading our resources para ma-assign sa mga satellite offices (Our office is continuously upgrading our resources to be assigned to the satellite offices),” Baloran said, underscoring their commitment to community-centric disaster management.
Additionally, desilting operations are ongoing across Davao, aiming to reduce flood risks by improving the flow of waterways.
A Unified Effort for a Safer City
The coordinated efforts between the CDRRMO, BDRRMCs, and other response units are a testament to Davao City’s dedication to safeguarding its residents from natural disasters. With advanced equipment, monitoring systems, and community-focused strategies, the city is well-positioned to face the challenges posed by flooding.
As Davao strengthens its disaster resilience, the CDRRMO’s efforts serve as a model for proactive and inclusive disaster management, ensuring that no community is left behind in the fight against the forces of nature.
