MARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur — In a move aimed at strengthening disaster preparedness and emergency coordination in the province, the Provincial Government of Lanao del Sur officially broke ground on February 25, 2026 for a new Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO) Operations Center at the New Capitol Complex in Marawi City.
Provincial officials said the project marks a significant step in improving the province’s capacity to respond swiftly and effectively to emergencies, particularly as communities across Mindanao continue to face risks from natural hazards and climate-related disasters.
The groundbreaking ceremony, jointly facilitated by the Provincial Engineer’s Office led by Engr. Dimasira Macabando Jr. and the PDRRMO, signaled the start of construction of a state-of-the-art, two-story facility envisioned to serve as the province’s central command hub during disasters and large-scale emergencies.
Strengthening disaster coordination
PDRRM Officer Shaminoden Sambitory opened the program by expressing gratitude to the provincial leadership for prioritizing the long-awaited infrastructure project. According to Sambitory, the operations center represents a long-standing vision to centralize disaster management efforts in a modern facility capable of coordinating multiple agencies during crises.
He emphasized that consolidating operations under one roof would significantly improve communication, rapid deployment, and real-time monitoring during calamities.
Once completed, the center is expected to function as the nerve center for disaster response planning, coordination, and monitoring across the province.
Symbolic timing with Ramadan
The contractor for the project, Engr. Vic Melvin Cabatbat of Biond Incorporated, also delivered a message of support during the ceremony, highlighting the deeper significance of the project’s timing.
Cabatbat noted that the start of construction coincides with the holy month of Ramadan, adding spiritual meaning to the undertaking. He described the groundbreaking not merely as the start of a construction project but as a long-term investment in the safety and resilience of communities.
According to him, the initiative represents a commitment to protecting families and strengthening a culture of preparedness across the province.
Governor underscores urgency of disaster-ready infrastructure
Governor Mamintal Alonto Adiong Jr., popularly known as “Bombit,” stressed during his address that disaster preparedness infrastructure is a non-negotiable priority for the provincial government.
Adiong underscored the importance of establishing a centralized operations center that can coordinate resources, personnel, and emergency actions in times of crisis.
He said the facility will ensure that the provincial government remains proactive and organized in safeguarding residents, particularly during natural disasters and other emergencies that require rapid and coordinated response.
Broad support from provincial leaders
The ceremony drew a wide range of provincial leaders and stakeholders, reflecting broad support for the project. Among those present were Board Member Saifullah Aldine Macarambon, Sangguniang Panlalawigan Secretary Atty. Amenoden Macalandap, Provincial Information Officer Salma Jayne Tamano, Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Officer Forester Pili Papandayan, and Provincial Agriculturist Rajiv Naga Radia.
Also in attendance was Aleem Ansary Angni Abdulmalik, chairman of the Provincial Ulama Council, who joined officials and staff from the PDRRMO, Provincial Engineer’s Office, Provincial Information Office, and Sangguniang Panlalawigan in recognizing the importance of the project.
Officials said the new PDRRMO Operations Center is expected to enhance the province’s disaster risk reduction strategies and strengthen coordination among local government units, responders, and partner agencies once completed.