LUNA, Apayao – The Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO) kicked off National Disaster Resilience Month with a motorcade earlier today, July 1, 2024. Apart from the PDRRMO, other participants included the Philippine National Police, the Bureau of Fire Protection, the municipal DRRMO, Flora MDRRMO, Pudtol MDRRMO, other municipal officials, and barangay patrols. Following the motorcade, the municipal government conducted a tree planting activity.
This year’s theme, “Bantayog ng Katatagan at Pagbubuklod sa Layuning Kahandaan” emphasizes that disaster risk reduction and management are responsibilities shared by everyone, not just DRRM managers and responders.
As climate change impacts become more evident, the importance of embracing climate resilience grows. National Disaster Resilience Month advocates for preparedness by urging individuals and communities to stay informed about climate-related risks and integrate these considerations into their disaster plans.
Families are encouraged to create emergency plans that account for climate hazards and prepare disaster supply kits with essentials such as water, food, medication, and important documents.
Adaptation is crucial for enhancing climate resilience, including support for climate-resilient infrastructure, recycling, energy conservation, and sustainable transportation. Engaging in local disaster risk reduction programs and integrating climate adaptation strategies into community planning are vital for building resilient communities.
The observance of National Disaster Resilience Month, mandated by Executive Order 29 s.2017, shifts the focus from disaster awareness to disaster resilience.
This transition highlights the importance of equipping individuals, communities, organizations, and local government units with the capacity to adapt to and recover from hazards and disasters through effective risk management. By Michelle Acantilado
