CARMEN, COTABATO — July 11, 2025
“We never know when disaster will strike. We must always be ready — this is what will keep us and our families safe.”
These words, consistently echoed by Cotabato Governor Emmylou “Lala” J. Taliño-Mendoza, encapsulate the province’s unwavering commitment to disaster preparedness, response, and resilience — a commitment that took center stage once again in the recently concluded 15-Day Capacity Development for Volunteer Responders in Cotabato Province.
A total of 262 individuals from the municipalities of Tulunan, Pigcawayan, Makilala, Alamada, Aleosan, Midsayap, and President Roxas underwent intensive training, reinforcing their capabilities to respond swiftly and efficiently to emergencies in their communities.
The training covered a wide range of life-saving topics including the Executive Course on Incident Command System, Standard First Aid and Basic Life Support, Basic Rope and Rescue Techniques, Fire Suppression, and Water Search and Rescue Techniques, among others — all aimed at strengthening community-based response teams.
The culminating activity, held at the 602nd Brigade Covered Court, Camp Lucero in Carmen, Cotabato, was spearheaded by the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO), under the leadership of Acting Head Abril M. Espadera.
During the closing ceremony, the newly organized Barangay Responders Teams were recognized as “abanteros” — frontline partners of the government in safeguarding lives and properties during disasters.
“These responders will serve as our first line of defense when calamities strike. Their training is not just about acquiring skills, but about reinforcing a culture of readiness in our communities,” said Espadera in her message.
The event was graced by several key officials, including Col. Asnawi P. Muti, FSUPT Reginald L. Legaste, DSC, Col. Gremel B. Brual, MNSA (INF) PA, Carmen Councilor Alberto G. Rivera, and Board Member Rosalie H. Cabaya, along with representatives from the Provincial Government Office such as LTC Emmanuel C. Tuyan, MNSA, PMaj Elias N. Dandan, and Prince Carmel F. Acosta, who stood in on behalf of Governor Mendoza.
Governor Taliño-Mendoza, although not physically present, was lauded for her visionary leadership in embedding disaster resilience at the grassroots level. Her administration continues to place a premium on empowering communities, ensuring that every barangay has trained responders ready to act in times of crisis.
The initiative marks a significant stride in Cotabato’s ongoing efforts to become a model province for disaster preparedness in the region. As the frequency and intensity of natural calamities grow due to climate change, the province’s proactive approach sends a strong message: readiness is not optional — it is essential.