Makilala, North Cotabato – A total of 246 volunteer responders from the municipalities of Makilala, Mlang, Kabacan, Matalam, and Tulunan have successfully completed the 15-day Capacity Development Program spearheaded by the Provincial Government of Cotabato under Governor Emmylou “Lala” J. Taliño-Mendoza.
The training, organized through the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO), aims to establish a strong and reliable Barangay Responder Team in the province, enhancing community resilience in times of emergencies and disasters.
Under the supervision of Acting PDRRMO Head Abril M. Espadera, participants from Batch 20 “Matalas” and Batch 21 “Kidlat” underwent intensive training on Incident Command System, first aid, rope rescue, fire suppression, water search and rescue, land navigation, mental health awareness, responsible sexuality education, and values restoration. Emphasis was also placed on discipline, morality, and environmental stewardship.
The graduation ceremony was held on August 1, 2025, at the covered court of the 602nd Brigade (Liberator), with the presence of key officials who expressed their support for the initiative. Among them were 602nd Brigade Commander BGEN Ricky P. Bunayog, PA; 1201st CDC, 12th RRCDG, RESCOM, PA Director Col. Asnawi P. Muti INF (GSC); Provincial Fire Marshal FSUPT Reginald L. Legaste; and Carmen Councilor Albert Rivera, who represented Governor Taliño-Mendoza.
Each volunteer responder received a certificate of completion and Family Food Packs, while their respective barangays were provided with two training manuals to aid in future disaster preparedness and response efforts.
The program stands as a testament to the collective commitment of local government units, the armed forces, and civil society in strengthening community safety and preparedness across North Cotabato.