Dapitan City, Philippines – The Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council (DRRMC) of Dapitan City, in collaboration with the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office (PDRRMO), conducted a Community-Based Disaster Risk Management (CBDRM) training workshop from December 10 to 12, 2024. The initiative aimed to strengthen disaster preparedness and response mechanisms at the barangay level.
Twenty-five barangay health workers participated in the three-day training, during which they developed comprehensive Barangay Disaster Preparedness Plans. These plans encompassed strategies for disaster preparation, response, and rehabilitation, ensuring a holistic approach to managing potential calamities.
Mr. Norman M. Alegarbes, Officer-in-Charge of the PDRRMO, emphasized the importance of readiness, timely reporting, and proper coordination among barangays to minimize casualties during disasters. “With this training, the local government units (LGUs) and barangays are better equipped to determine appropriate actions and collaborate effectively during emergencies,” he stated.
The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) also played a significant role in the training. Ms. Anabela A. Jatico, Local Government Operations Officer (LGOO) VII and Cluster I Head of DILG Zamboanga del Norte, discussed the responsibilities of LGUs in disaster readiness. She was joined by Ms. Charity D. Serenio, LGOO II of DILG Zamboanga del Norte, who provided additional insights on the subject.
Technical expertise was extended by the PDRRMO team, including Mr. Albert G. Camay, Research and Planning Division Head Designate, and Ms. Mary Jane B. Tigon, Assistant Head of the Research and Planning Division. Their presentations guided participants in crafting actionable and community-specific disaster plans.
The CBDRM training underscores the city’s commitment to fostering resilient communities through capacity-building initiatives. With well-prepared barangay health workers and disaster preparedness plans in place, Dapitan City is taking proactive steps to safeguard its residents from the impacts of natural and man-made disasters.