2

About O C D Communicating for

Disaster Risk Reduction The 1987 Constitution states that the prime duty of the Government is to

serve and protect the people (Article II Section 4). This provision, together with the recognized citizens right to information on matters of public concern, obliges the government to communicate to the people about the natural hazards and man-made threats, and the risks to life and properties that they bring. It is in this spirit that Republic Act 10639 or the Free Mobile Disaster Alerts Act was enacted and approved by President Benigno S. Aquino III. T h i s l a w , w h i c h c o m p e l s telecommunications firm to send free mobile alerts, will be very useful in informing people of hazards and possible disasters. However, given that the law mandates the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC), led by the Office of Civil Defense (OCD), and other disaster management agencies to prompt

these telecommunications companies on the information to be sent, then the timeliness and relevance of such messages will depend on the actions of these government agencies. The Pre-Disaster Risk Assessment (PDRA), a process of analyzing a hazard and its possible impacts, will help in ensuring that correct and reliable information are sent to the people. After the risks of a particular hazard are determined, then the government can communicate appropriate and up-to-date warnings and protective actions to the people in the locality that will be most likely affected. The objective is to give the right information, to the right people, and at the right time. Along this line, OCD and other agencies must continue to educate the public through community-based programs and activities, and ensure that people fully understand these warnings and that they know what to do in case they receive them .

ON COVER. National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council Chair and Department of National Defense Secretary Voltaire T. Gazmin (left) turns over the flag of the Office to Civil Defense to new Administrator Undersecretary Alexander P. Pama during ceremonies held on 12 May 2014 at the DND Social Hall in Camp General Emilio Aguinaldo, Quezon City.

INSIDE

Pre-Disaster Risk Assessment

page 4

New Law on DRRM page 5

Asia-Europe Meeting page 6-7

Safe Steps Campaign page 8

New NDDRM Operations Center

page 9

Civil Defense Across the Nation

pages 10 - 15

Provincial DRRM Summits page 16-17

Barangay DRRM page 18

Awareness and Preparedness

page 19

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National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management OCD Welcomes Former Navy Chief as

New Administrator National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) Chairperson and Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Voltaire T. Gazmin officiated the oath taking of Undersecretary Alexander P. Pama as new NDRRMC Executive Director and Office of Civil Defense (OCD) Administrator during a turnover ceremony held on 12 May 2014 at DND Social Hall in Camp General Emilio Aguinaldo, Quezon City. Undersecretary Pama replaced Undersecretary Eduardo D. Del Rosario who resigned on 24 April 2014. Usec Pama, a retired Navy Vice Admiral and member of the Philippine Military Academy Class of 1979, was Flag-Officer-in-Command of the Philippine Navy from 4 January 2011 until his retirement in December 2012. Prior to his appointment as Civil Defense Adminsitrator, Pama was the Executive Director of the National Coast Watch Council, an inter-agency body created by President Benigno S. Aquino III in 2011. A day after assuming his new office, Pama met the officials and employees o f O C D a nd p r es e n te d h i s administrative policies and the agencys direction. On 13 June 2014, he also met with the Defense Press Corps (DPC), whose members report on NDRRMC and OCD activities, events and issues. He also convened an OCD Senior Leaders Conference

on 16-18 June 2014 to personally meet the agencys Regional Directors and reiterate his directions and way forward on the regional plans, programs and actions. As Executive Director of NDRRMC, he immediately called for and presided a Technical Working Group meeting on 22 May to review the governments plans and actions in preparing for the rainy season and look into the progress of other DRRM projects. During this meeting, Pama formally introduced and

called for the institutionalization of Pre-Disaster Risk Assessment (PDRA) as an integral part of the governments disaster preparedness and response system. The tool aims to assess the level of risks that hazards pose to a community and enable the disaster managers to prepare accordingly. PDRA was presented and approved during the NDRRMC Full Council Meeting presided by Secretary Gazmin on 11 June 2014 at the DND Social Hall. (Noel H. Mapalo)

Department of National Defense Secretary Voltaire T. Gazmin (left) administers the Oath of Office to Civil Defense Administrator Undersecretary Alexander P. Pama (right) during ceremonies held on 12 May 2014 at the DND Social Hall in Camp General Emilio Aguinaldo, Quezon City.

NDRRMC Technical Working Group Meeting on preparations for the rainy seasons on 22 May 2014.

Meeting with the officers and members of the Defense Press Corps on 13 June 2014.

Civi l Defense Senior Leaders Conference on 16-18 June 2014.

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National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management NDRRMC Institutionalizes

Pre-Disaster Risk Assessment The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council, led by its Chair, Department of National Defense Secretary Voltaire T. Gazmin, approved the adoption of Pre-Disaster Risk Assessment (PDRA) during the Full Council Meeting held on 11 June 2014 at the DND Social Hall, Camp General Emilio Aguinaldo, Philippines. PDRA is a process to evaluate a given hazards characteristics and its possible impacts to the populace. It further determines the appropriate level of response and corresponding actions of concerned agencies, local gove rnmen t un i t s and o the r stakeholders. The adoption of PDRA as government tool is aimed at ensuring that the level of preparations matches the level of risks that hazards pose to a community. The pre-assessment is led by OCD and a core group of scientists from Depa r tme n t o f Sc ience and Technology and other agencies in the DRRM Prevention and Mitigation cluster, and representatives from DRRM Preparedness thematic area lead Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG), DRRM Response lead Department of Social Welfare and Deve lopment (DSWD), DRRM Recovery and Rehabilitation lead National Economic and Development Au tho r i t y (NEDA) and o the r government agencies.

Under the new system, once a hazard is detected, the scientists will determine its possible effects and identify the areas that will be exposed, i n c l u d i n g t h e c o m m u n i t y s vulnerabilities and capacity to cope. After this, the government led by DILG and DSWD organizes the appropriate preparedness and response plans

respectively, while public warnings on the level of risks will be communicated to the communities through the local governments. Based on the warnings, the local government units are expected to implement protective actions like evacuation of people, preposition relief goods, and placing search and rescue teams on heightened alert. (Noel H. Mapalo)

Members of the Pre-Disaster Risk Assessment Core Group study the map of areas that will be most likely affected by the monsoon rains last 26 June 2014 at the Office of the Civil Defense Administrator in Camp General Emilio Aguinaldo, Quezon City. The proposal for the institutionalization of Pre-Disaster Risk Assessment as a DRRM tool was approved during the meeting presided by NDRRMC Chair and DND Secretary Voltaire T. Gazmin on 11 June 2014.

Pre-Disaster Risk Assessment

Hazard is detected. Possible effects and areas that will be exposed are ascertained.

Capacities and vulnerabilities of areas to be affected are assessed. Risks are determined.

Warnings are communicated. Appropriate response actions are planned and implemented.

5

National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Government Releases Memorandum, Law

to Strengthen DRRM The national government, in its efforts to build a safer, climate-adaptive and disaster resilient country, released Joint Memorandum Circular (JMC) 2014-1 and approved Republic Act 10639. The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC), Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG), Department of Budget and Management (DBM) and Civil Service Commission (CSC) released the JMC 2014-1 dated 4 April 2014, prescribing the policies and guidelines for the establishment of Local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Offices (LDRRMO) and Barangay Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Committee (BDRRMC). President Benigno S. Aquino III also signed into law Republic Act 10639 or the Free Mobile Disaster Alerts Act, which compels telecommunications firms to send free mobile alerts in the event of natural and man-made disasters and calamities. Local Disaster Offices JMC 2014-1 urges the Local Government Units (LGUs) to establish their respective LDRRMO and BDRRMC in their areas, in fulfilment of Section 12 of Republic Act No. 10121, otherwise known as the Philippine Disaster Risk Reduction Management Act of 2010. In the policy section of the said joint memorandum, the LDRRMO is considered as a mandatory office, and the BDRRMC, a mandatory committee. Each province, city or municipality shall prioritize the establishment of the office, whereas, each barangay shall prioritize the establishment of the committee. It further states that the provincial, city or municipal DRRM Officer and the three (3) staff responsible for administration and training, research and planning, and operations and warning are considered mandatory positions.

The JMC also defined the functions and responsibilities of the offices, which shall be responsible for setting t h e d i r e c t i o n , d e v e l o p m e n t , implementation, and coordination of disaster risk management programs within their territorial jurisdictions. The said Circular further prescribed the minimum qualification standards and corresponding salary grades for personnel who will occupy the LDRRMO positions. The budgetary requirements for personal services, maintenance and other operating expenditures, and capital outlay of the LDRRMO shall be sourced from the General Fund of the LGU. Free Mobile Disaster Alerts Republic Act 10639 was signed by President Aquino on 20 June 2014, after it was passed by the House of Representatives on 10 February 2014, and by Senate on 5 May 2014. T h e n e w l a w c o m p e l s telecommunications companies to

send free text messages to cellular phone subscribers about hazards or impending disasters. The law states that in the event of an impending tropical storm, tsunami or other calamities, mobile phone service providers are mandated to send out alerts at regular intervals as required by the NDRRMC, Ph i l i pp ine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA), Philippine Institute of Vo lcano logy and Se ismo logy (PHIVOLCS) and other relevant government agencies. The alerts shall consist of up-to-date information from the relevant agencies, and shall be sent directly to the mobile phone subscribers located near and within the affected areas. The Department of Transportation and C o m m u n i c a t i o n s , the National Telecommunications Commission, the NDRRMC and PAGASA were given sixty days to submit the implementing rules and regulations. (Noel H. Mapalo)

OCD employees test a satellite phone during a training on its use on 24 April 2014. President Benigno S. Aquino III approved on 20 June 2014 a new law, Republic Act 10639 or the Free Mobile Disaster Alerts Act, which will compel telecommunications firms to send free mobile alerts in the event of natural and man-made disasters and calamities.

6

The Philippines, through the National Disaster Risk Reduct ion and Management Council (NDRRMC), the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) and Office of Civil Defense (OCD), hosted the Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM) Manila Conference on Disaster Risk Reduct ion and Management on 4-6 June 2014 with the theme, Post-HaiyanA Way Forward. Seven months after Typhoon Yolanda (International Name: Haiyan) left a trail of destruction in the central regions of the country, the Conference was participated in by government officials, scientists, academics, business leaders, civil society organizations (CSOs), and representatives of r e g i o n a l a n d i n t e r n a t i o n a l organizations. Day 1 Prior to the formal Conference in Manila, ASEM delegates visited Leyte Province where they met with local government and community leaders and discussed their experiences during the super typhoon and residual challenges and opportunities. The delegates visited Bislig Elementary School in Tanauan and participated in the ground-breaking ceremony of an ASEM computer classroom. From Tanauan, the delegates visited Barangay Pago, site of a resettlement

project for some forty displaced families, after which, they were received by local government officials who recounted their experiences during and in the aftermath of Typhoon Yolanda. Day 2 The next two days activities were held at Diamond Hotel in Manila, with President Benigno S. Aquino III as the Guest of Honor and Keynote Speaker

during the formal opening ceremony. The Chief Executive recounted the countrys experience and the actions taken by the country during the onslaught of Typhoon Yolanda. Haiyan swept away many of the relief goods we had stockpiled. It affected millions of our countrymen, including some of the first responders who were supposed to give initial assistance to those affected. Several of our airports, roads, and ports were rendered

President Benigno S. Aquino III exchanges pleasantries with European Union (EU) Commissioner for International Cooperation, Humanitarian Aid, and Crisis Response Kristalina Georgieva during the latters courtesy call at the Diamond Hotel, prior to the opening ceremony of the Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM) Manila Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction and Management on 5 June 2014. (Photo from Republic of the Philippines Official Gazette)

International Partnership in Disaster Risk Reduction Asia-Europe Meets in Manila for

Conference on DRRM

Day 1: ASEM delegates visit Eastern Visayas to see the extent of devasta t ion and the ongoing rehabilitation efforts.

Day 2: Delegates attend plenary and breakout sessions on different themes and topics on disaster risk reduction and management.

Day 3: Presidential Assistant on Rehabilitation and Recovery Secretary Panfilo M. Lacson delivers his message during the closing ceremony.

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The Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM) is an informal process of dialogue and cooperation bringing together the 27 European Union member states, 2 other European countries, and the European Union with 20 Asian countries and the ASEAN Secretariat. The ASEM dialogue addresses political, economic and cultural issues, with the objective of strengthening the relationship between our two regions, in a spirit of mutual respect and equal partnership. The initial ASEM partnership in 1996 consisted of 15 EU member states and 7 ASEAN member states plus China, Japan, Korea and the European Commission. ASEM saw the first enlargement in 2004 during the 5th ASEM Summit in Hanoi (Viet Nam), where the 10 new EU Member States (Cyprus, the Czech Republic, Estonia, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Malta, Poland, Slovakia, Slovenia)

unusable. Communications and power went down. At that point, it seemed like every development compounded the problem further, Aquino said. Our government, together with the Filipino people, persevered. We were able to clear the airport in Tacloban, which was one of the most damaged areas, within the first day of the relief efforts, which was the day after Typhoon Haiyan struck, and three C130 aircrafts were able to land, bringing with them personnel, relief goods, and a communications van to help restore communications, Aquino added. The Chief Executive also stressed the importance of cooperation in overcoming the challenges posed by climate change. The reality of climate change is already significantly altering the way all of us live, and we are now faced with a crucial choice: We can either act collectively now to address the problem, or we can choose to act independently, or not at all, and suffer the aftermath of inaction collectively, Aquino said. After the opening ceremony, the Conference proceeded with a plenary session wherein various speakers and experts lectured on DRRM topics. Breakout sessions were a lso

conducted on varying themes and topics. Day 3 The international gathering ended with the adoption of "Post-Haiyan Tacloban Declaration, a document that captures the commitment of participants to advance cooperation and collaboration, based on the best practices and lessons learned from the disaster brought by Yolanda. The Tacloban Declaration will be endorsed to ASEM Leaders when they meet on October for the ASEM Summit in Milan, Italy, as a contribution to the post-2015 global framework for disaster risk reduction. Presidential Assistant on Rehabilitation and Recovery Secretary Panfilo M. Lacson revealed the ongoing recovery and rehabilitation efforts in the affected areas during his closing statement. NDRRMC Chair and Defense Secretary Voltaire T. Gazmin in his closing remarks thanked those who attended and supported the holding of the Conference. ASEM Manila Conference was co-hosted by Japan, Switzerland and the European Union, and co-sponsored by Be lg ium, Germany , Hungary , Indonesia, Spain, Sweden and Vietnam. (Noel H. Mapalo)

Satisfaction with Governments Relief Efforts High Among Yolanda Victims The victims of Typhoon Yolanda expressed higher satisfaction ratings for President Benigno S. Aquino III and the national governments relief effort than non-Yolanda victims, a survey conducted by Social Weather Stations (SWS) and supported by Asia Foundation in the Philippines revealed. The Survey on the Impact of Typhoon Yolanda on Filipino Households, conducted on 11-16 December 2013, found that 13% of households suffered serious harm during the onslaught of Typhoon Yolanda (International Name: Haiyan). The other 87% of household said they did not suffer serious harm from the super typhoon. The survey also revealed higher satisfaction ratings for the Chief Executive among victims of Yolanda compared to those who were not victimized by the super typhoon. Among Yolanda victims, 73% were satisfied and 19% were dissatisfied with the Presidents performance, for a net satisfaction rating of +54 (% satisfied minus % dissatisfied), classified by SWS as very good. Other highlights of the survey are as follows: Seventy-four (74%) percent of adults from victim-families and sixty-six (66%) percent from non-victim say it will take four years at most to recover.

The United States received the highest trust rating among the listed donor countries.

A large majority of Filipino households received the typhoon warning from TV (92%), radio (48%), from relatives or friends (19%), local officials (10%), newspapers and tabloids (5%), and internet (5%).

Eighteen percent (18%) of Filipino households said they underestimated the strength of Yolanda.

and 3 new ASEAN countries (Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar) became officially part of the ASEM process. The second round of enlargement in 2008 during the 7th ASEM Summit in Beijing (China) brought in 6 new members: Bulgaria, India, Mongolia, Pakistan, Romania, and the ASEAN Secretariat, increasing total ASEM membership to 45 partners. In October 2010, the 8th ASEM Summit of Heads of Government and State in Brussels (Belgium) welcomed 3 new member states to the ASEM process. (Australia, New Zealand, and Russia). This third round of enlargement increased total ASEM membership to 48 partners. In November 2012, during the 9th ASEM Summit of Heads of Government and State in Vientiane (Lao PDR), Bangladesh, Norway, and Switzerland officially joined. This latest round of enlargement brings total ASEM membership to 51 partners. (From www.aseminfoboard.org)

About ASEM

8

Public-Private Partnerships in Disaster Risk Reduction NDRRMC, Pacman and Prudence

Team Up for Safe Steps To aggressively promote disaster preparedness in the localities of the Philippines but also in the Asia Pacific, the Prudence Foundation, the charitable arm of the PRU Life, one of the leading pre-need companies in the Philippines launched the Safe Steps Project in partnership with the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC), Office of Civil Defense (OCD), Fox International Channels, National Geographic (NatGeo) and GMA Network Inc, on 22 May 2014 at Marriott Hotel, Pasay City. Safe Steps is a ground breaking pan-Asian public service program aimed at enhancing disaster preparedness and awareness through the dissemination of tips on what to do, before, during and after disasters. Core to the program is a series of 60-second educational videos, produced by National Geographic Channel, featuring the campaigns Ambassador, boxing icon and Saranggani Representative Emmanuel Manny-Pacman Pacquiao who advises on key survival steps that individuals and households should take when disasters strike. OCD Administrator and NDRRMC Executive Director Usec Alexander P. Pama heartily congratulated the Safe

Steps partners and hailed the project as a most laudable awareness-building effort that stands parallel to the information and education campaigns of the OCD and NDRRMC. He also commended the selection of Boxing Icon, Manny Pacman Pacquiao as ambassador of the project, since he is a mirror that reflects the resilience of the Filipino people amidst all the adversities that come, whether it be inside the boxing ring or beyond it. He expressed confidence that Pacman can convey the message of disaster preparedness through to the peoples of the region. Pacquiao said, I am happy and honored to serve as ambassador of this project. As soon as the project was presented to me, I wanted to do it, without any questions. I have witnessed the Typhoon Yolanda tragedy last year and I strongly believe that this is a most important campaign that can help save lives, not just in the Philippines but the whole of Asia. With these tips, we all can be survivors! Highlights of the launch were the presentation of the Safe Steps videos on typhoons and earthquakes, the special messages of the project partners including Representative Pacquiao and Usec Pama, and the

signing of the memorandum of agreement between Prudence Foundation and the NDRRMC on the dissemination of the Safe Steps knowledge products. Prudence Foundation Executive Director, Mr. Marc Fancy, expressed gratitude for their support of the project and assured continued commitment and robust support on the Philippine DRRM efforts. The launch was also attended by executives of the Prudential Corporation Asia, headed by its chairman, Mr Donald Kanak, representatives from various NDRRMC member agencies, Fox International Channels, National Geographic and both foreign and local media. Safe Steps is now being shown across Asia on 13 Fox Channels reaching over 24 million households and is available in 8 local languages: Cantonese, Mandarin, Bahasa Indonesia, Bahasa Malaysia, Tagalog, Thai, Vietnamese and Khmer. The NDRRMC through OCD will assist in the distribution of the supporting knowledge products throughout the archipelago. (Mark Cashean E. Timbal)

A poster from Safe Steps campaign.

Representative Pacquiao delivers his message during the launch.

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Public-Private Partnerships in Disaster Risk Reduction NDRRMC Signs MOA with SMSGT on New NDRRM Operations Center

The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) signed a Memorandum of Agreement with SMS Global Technologies, Inc.(SMS GT) on Monday, 05 May 2014 at the DND Social Hall, Camp General Emilio Aguinaldo, Quezon City. Undersecretary of National Defense Honorio S. Azcueta signed the MoA with SMS GT President Anthony Christian S. Angeles on the establishment of the new National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Operations Center (NDRRMOC) that will serve as the countrys communication backbone in times of disasters. This agreement covers the provision of a completely operational NDRRMOC, communications vehicle and relevant management and technical training for all equipment and monitoring of provided network infrastructure to personnel. The proposed NDRRMOC could integrate and house all various systems and types of communications in one central location and where information from the different regions and localities in the country could be received and processed. Furthermore, SMS GT shall solicit support from its own partners in the industry to complete the initiative without any cost from the Philippine government.

This collaboration has been pursued by OCD Operations Division Officer-in-Charge LTC Edwin C Sadang GSC (SC) PA with the SMS GT in the aftermath of Super Typhoon Yolanda, which crippled the communication lines in the affected regions. The experience emphasized the need for an improved and reliable communication facilities and systems that can withstand disasters of similar magnitude.

In related news, NDRRMC-OCD also acquired forty sets of satellite phones from the World Food Programme to boost the agencys communication capability. These equipment will be distributed to the seventeen regional offices of OCD. On 24 April 2014, selected OCD personnel were trained on the operation and use of said sate l l i te phones. (Romina B. Marasigan)

Undersecretary of National Defense Honorio S. Azcueta conveys his message of gratitude during the Memorandum of Agreement Signing Ceremony between National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council and SMS Global Technologies, Inc. on 5 May 2014 at the DND Social Hall, Camp General Emilio Aguinaldo, Quezon City. (Noel H. Mapalo)

Civil Defense Administrator Usec Alexander P. Pama poses with Japanese Information-Communication Technology government officials and business leaders on 21 May 2014.

Civil Defense Executive Officer Honorato S. delos Reyes accepts the donation of Korean Aerospace Industries, Ltd. on 27 May 2014 for the victims of past disasters.

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C I V I L D E F E N S E A CThe Civil Defense Across The Nation section is a collection of news stories on events and activities conducted by OCD Regional Offices.

Inauguration of the Philippine Coast Guards Aluminum Boats on 28 May 2014 in La Union. (OCD I)

OCD I

OCD II

OCD III

OCD I Establishes

Regional RDANA Team OCD I together with the Regional DRRM Council Member Agencies and Provincial DRRM Councils in Region 1 established its own Rapid Damage Assessment and Needs Analysis (RDANA) Team after its members underwent RDANA Training Course in Santa Catalina, Ilocos Sur on 28-30 April 2014. The participants were expected to be able to demonstrate the appropriate knowledge and skills on the use of RDANA as a tool to assess disaster damages and recommend priorities for response and recovery activities. During the Simulation Exercise, the group was divided into four groups and they simulated various disaster scenarios similar to an actual disaster situation. It was a practical way for them to experience all the phases of RDANA. (Renzie Ivan Costales)

PDRRMC Pangasinan Trains for

Underwater SAR and Scuba Diving Rescue Team Members of the Pangasinan Provincial DRRM Council underwent the Underwater Search and Rescue Training and Basic Scuba Diving Course in Lingayen City, Pangasinan on 19-23 May 2014. OCD I, together with PDRRMC Pangasinan declared 29 graduates at the commencement of the training. The trainers for the event were the Philippine Navy Special Operations Unit 2 who guided the participants to familiarize themselves on Basic SCUBA diving. The trainers provided the participants with the basic knowledge in using SCUBA diving equipment in order to build confidence on underwater diving operations. The closing ceremony was graced by Commodore Nodolfo V Tejada, Commander, Naval Forces Northern Luzon, who was very pleased with the results of the training. Ms. Imelda M. Acosta, OCD I Officer-in-charge, also extended her satisfaction on the training and hoped for improved skills of provincial responders. (Renzie Ivan Costales)

Quirino Towns Conduct

Contigency Planning Workshop

OCD II assisted municipalities in Quirino Province during their Contingency Plan Formulation Workshop. The town of Diffun held

their activity on 21-23 April 2014 at the Water World Grand Resort in Isabela, while the municipality of Aglipay conducted it on 28-30 April 2014. The Contingency Plan will help the local government units to prepare for the hazard which they are exposed to through arranging potential response structures, mechanisms, and resources that are focused into certain emergency event prior to its occurrence. Roll-out of the Republic Act 10121 was also included during the said activity.

OCD II Presents During Regional Council Meeting

OCD II presented the Status of Implementation of the Regional DRRM Plan on the Thematic Area of Prevention and Mitigation during the Regional Committee on Sustainable Development (RCSD) Meeting on 19 May 2014 in Tuguegarao City. The RCSD is a committee under the Regional Development Council. The presentation showed the efforts and initiatives of the Regional DRRM Council Member Agencies such as DOST, DILG, DPWH and DOH. (OCD II)

Palayan City Undergoes

Local DRRM Planning Workshop OCD III facilitated the conduct of Local DRRM Planning Workshop for Palayan City, Nueva Ecija on 3-4 April 2014. Ninety three participants from the City DRRM Office, department heads and barangay officials joined the workshop which aims to come up with different activities of the Four Thematic Areas and address implementation and budgetary issues. The activity is in accordance with Republic Act 10121, which requires Local DRRM Councils to formulate and implement a comprehensive and integrated DRRM plan aligned with the national, regional and provincial framework. (Doreen Sanchez)

Underwater Search and Rescue and Basic Scuba Diving in Lingayen City on May 19-23, 2014. (OCD I)

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R O S S T H E N A T I O N

Community-based Flood Early Warning System Training on 7-11 April 2014 in Taytay, Palawan. (OCD IV-B)

Disaster Preparedness Campaign and Brigada Eskwela in Bagong Nayon School in Antipolo City. (OCD IV-A)

Basic Incident Command System for health workers and staff of a private hospital in Olongapo City. (OCD III)

OCD IV-B

OCD IV-A

Basic ICS Training for Quezon Province

OCD IV-A conducted a Basic Incident Command System Training Course for the Province of Quezon on 26-29 May and 3-5 June 2014. The activity aims to raise the emergency response mechanism of disaster managers and responders in the area. F i f ty s ix indiv iduals took an e x a m i n a t i o n t o g a u g e t h e i r understanding of the whole course. All 56 individuals successfully completed the course.

Community Participates in Tsunami Evacuation Drill

OCD IV-B, with support from Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) and the Local

DRRM Offices, conducted a Tsunami Evacuation Drill on 8-9 May 2014 in Barangay Wawa, Abra de Ilog, Occidental Mindoro. Before the drill, PHIVOLCS Officer Engr. Lawrence Arteza, conducted an orientation on earthquakes and Abra De Ilog, having several coastal barangays, is highly susceptible to tsunami in the event of an earthquake that might originate from the Lubang Fault. The actual drill was attended by around 230 participants, including residents of the coastal barangay, local responders from the Municipal Police Station, Bureau of Fire Protection, Philippine Red Cross, the Provincial and Municipal Disaster Response Teams.

Palawan Town Trains on

Flood Early Warning Systems OCD IV-B, in cooperation with the Municipal DRRM Council of Taytay, Palawan conducted trainings for rainfall observers and installed Community-based Flood Early Warning System in the said municipality on 7-11 April 2014. Five manual rain gauges were installed in the different barangays and a digital rain gauge was installed in the Municipal DRRM Office. A water level gauge was also installed in a municipal bridge. After the installation and training, a f lood simulation exercise was conducted in Barangay Bato to test the effectiveness of the system in the issuing of flood warnings and evacuation of communities that may be affected.

OCD III Launches Regional Smart Infoboard System

OCD III launched the Regional SMART Infoboard System on 16 May 2014 during the Regional DRRM Council Meeting attended by officials and representatives from Regional DRRM Council Member Agencies and Local DRRM Councils. The SMART Infoborad System is an internet-based tool that can send messages to multiple contacts. The system will be used by OCD III to send weather forecasts, advisor ies, warnings and other important DRRM information to Local and Barangay DRRMCs. (Doreen Sanchez)

OCD III Trains on Waste Water Treatment

OCD III joined the Training on Waste Water Treatment on 11 April 2014 along with seventeen other participants from the Provincial DRRM Council of Nueva Ecija, Bureau of Fire Protection, and representatives from OCD Region IV-A, IV-B and Central Office, at the National DRRM Council Humanitarian Response Depot in Clark Free Port Zone, Angeles City, Pampanga. Three water treatment machines were tested and used during the said training. The machines were donated by the Kingdom of Spain through the Spanish Agency for International Cooperation for Development, and will be used during disaster response. (Doreen Sanchez)

OCD III Inspects Rehabilitation Projects

OCD III spearheaded the inspection and validation of three infrastructures in Cabanatuan City, Bongabon and Guimba in Nueva Ecija on 29-30 April 2014. The OCD-led team was composed of representatives from Department of Public Works and Highways, Philippine Information Agency and the Local Engineering Offices. The team inspected two River Control Projects and a bridge undergoing repair and rehabilitation. (Doreen Sanchez)

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C I V I L D E F E N S E A C

Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council Meeting on 15 April 2014 in Iloilo City. (OCD VI)

OCD V receives copy of Provincial DRRM Plan from Catanduanes Governor Araceli B. Wong. (OCD V)

Inspection of rehabilitation efforts being undertaken in Bohol on 22-25 May 2014. (OCD VII)

OCD V

OCD VI

OCD VII

OCD V and Albay Province

Prepare for APEC 2015 OCD V Regional Director Bernardo R. Alejandro IV, Chair of the Emergency Preparedness and Response (EPR) Subcommittee for Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) 2015 Albay Meeting, presented the groups plan to the APEC National Organizing Committee (NOC) Composite Team on 9 June 2014 at the Oriental Hotel, Legazpi City, Albay. EPR is a subcommittee of the Albay Provincial Preparatory Logistical Committee (APPLC), the local counterpart of APEC-NOC. EPR is t a s k e d w i t h p l a n n i n g a n d implementation of emergency plans, and ensure that necessary measures are taken to mobilize equipment, facilities, materials, human and financial resources required to respond to any possible emergency that may happen during APEC 2015 Summit. It is also responsible for the development of strategies and contingency/response plans. (Jessar Adornado)

OCD V Leads Preparedness Activities for UN-ASEAN Meet

OCD V, together with the Regional DRRM Council Member Agencies and Albay Province Response Cluster established a Joint Operation Command and Control Center (JOCCC) during the countrys hosting of the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) Association

of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) International Conference on Tourism and Climate Change held in Legazpi City, Albay on 19-20 May 2014. The international gathering was graced by His Excellency President Benigno S. Aquino III and UNWTO Secretary General Taleb D. Rifai. Before the said event, Legazi City also hosted the 26th Joint Meeting of the UNWTO Commission for East Asia and the Pacific and the UNWTO Commission for South Asia on 18 May 2014. The OCD V-led JOCCC was tasked to manage the Emergency Preparedness aspects of the event and direct the Disaster Response effort if the need for it arises. The JOCCC uses a system of communications that connects security and medical teams, protocol officers and event managers, and operated on a 24-hour basis on 11-25 May 2014. (Jessar Adornado)

OCD VI Conducts Planning

Workshops in Negros Occidental OCD VI led the conduct of Contigency Planning Workshops for the Local DRRM Councils of Negros Occidental Province, Bacolod City, Bago City and Silay City on 4-6 March 2014 at the Natures Village Resort in Talisay City. According to OCD VI Regional Director Rosario T. Cabrera, the Contigency Planning Workshop aims to ensure that the Local DRRM Councils are well

OCD VII Monitors Rehab Efforts, Distributes Assistance in Bohol

OCD VII Regional Director Olivia M. Luces personally visited Bohol on 22-25 May 2014 to monitor the rehabilitation efforts being undertaken by the province in the wake of the 7.2-magnitude earthquake on 15 October 2013. Director Luces made a courtesy call to Bohol Governor Edgardo M. Chatto and attended the Provincial DRRM Council Meeting. OCD personnel distributed financial assistance at the Provincial Capitol for the bereaved families of those who died during the tremor. OCD also convened Local DRRM Officers during the Local DRRM Office Operational Planning Workshop on 23 May 2014. Luces met with Local Chief Executives of affected areas and discussed with them the process on accessing the National DRRM Fund. In addition, OCD VII staff also visited churches damaged by the earthquake and were also able to have a courtesy call to Most Reverend Leonardo Y. Medroso, Bishop of Diocese of Tagbilaran. (Tashuana Alemania)

informed of the hazards and risks that threaten their respective communities, plan out actions to prevent and mitigate against these dangers, and prepare and respond to disasters.

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R O S S T H E N A T I O N

Intermediate Incident Command System (ICS) training for Ozamiz City on 28-30 April 2014. (OCD X)

Turnover of pumps for Zamboanga Citys evacuation and resettlement areas on 11 April 2014. (OCD IX)

Flood Contingency Plan Formulation Workshops for Cagayan de Oro City held on April and May 2014. (OCD X)

OCD X

OCD IX

Cebu Province Holds Writeshop for Livelihood Sector

OCD VII sponsored the conduct of the Livelihood Sector Writeshop facilitated by the Provincial Government of Cebus Task Force Paglig-on on 3 May 2014 at Crown Regency Hotel, Cebu City. The writeshop, which was attended by OCD and Regional DRRM Council Member Agencies, aims to list livelihood projects to implement the PHP 1.7 million budget programmed to benefit those affected by Typhoon Yolanda in the northern part of the province. Officials and planning officers from the affected Local Government Units also attended the said activity. (Tashuana Alemania)

OCD IX Turnovers Pumps for

Zambo Evacuees Benefit OCD IX Officer-in-charge Emilia Vasquez-Julhajan handed over two units of Sanso Centrifugal Pumps to Zamboanga City, represented by City Administrator and DRRM Officer Mr. Antonio Orendain Jr., on 11 April 2014. The said equipment will be used in dislodging portalets, and thus provide for proper sanitation in the evacuation and resettlement areas occupied by residents displaced by Zamboanga Crisis last year. Mr. Orendain expressed the gratitude of City Mayor Ma. Isabelle Climaco-Salazar for the donation. (Robin Lim)

OCD X Assists in Cagayan de Oros

Flood Contingency Workshop OCD X, led by Regional Director Ana C. Caeda provided technical assistance to the Cagayan de Oro DRRM Council during their Flood Contingency Planning Formulation Workshop at Pine Grove Mountain Lodge, Dahilayan, Manolo Fortich, Bukidnon on 1-3 April 2014. Director Caeda emphasized the importance of using cluster approach in the formulation of a contingency plan. This approach will strengthen and enhance the operational capabilities of Cagayan de Oro CDRRMC. The plan will stress the importance of pre-emergency planning throughout every stage of a crisis and a well-managed response that will optimize the strength and capabilities of the DRMMC and other stakeholders. (Titus Velez)

OCD X Keynotes Conference

on Gender Development

OCD X Regional Director Ana C. Caeda was the keynote speaker during the National Conference on 1st National Conference on Gender Development Intervention Focus on Disaster Risk Reduction Management and Climate Change Adaptation at Mindanao State University in Iligan City on 24-25 April 2014.

The conference aims to generate consensus on issues surrounding climate change and other disasters that may provide valuable inputs to policy making and to help incorporate gender concerns in development interventions in response to climate change and disasters. (Titus Velez)

OCD X Helps Municipality

in Crafting Local DRRM Plan OCD X assisted the Local DRRM Councils (LDRRMC) in crafting their respective Local DRRM Plan (LDRRMP) in a series of activities conducted on the second quarter of the year. On 29-30 May 2014, the LDRRMC of San Fernando, Bukidnon conducted their LDRRMP Formulation Workshop at Pearlmont Inn in Cagayan de Oro City. The activity was attended by the members of MDRRMC led by its Chair, Mayor Levi Edma Sr. On 19-21 June 2014, the Misamis Oriental Provincial DRRM Council held their three-day LDRRMP Formulation Workshop at Harbor Lights, Cagayan de Oro City. Thirty five members of the Council attended. OCD also conducted LDRRMP Formulation Workshop for the LDRRMCs of Dangcagan, Kadingilan, Damulog, Don Carlos and Malitbog all of Bukidnon Province at Hotel Conchita, Cogon, Cagayan de Oro City on 26-28 June 2014. Seventy participants completed the workshops. The workshops conducted aim to help the LDRRMC in crafting a

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C I V I L D E F E N S E A C

Regional Contingency Planning Workshop in Davao City on 22-23 May 2014. (OCD XI)

Basic Incident Command System Training on 4-6 June 2014 for Antipas, North Cotabato. (OCD XII)

Geographical Information System (GIS) Refresher Training on 12-16 May 2014 in Davao City. (OCD ARMM)

OCD XI

OCD XII OCD ARMM

OCD XI, UN OCHA Partner for

Contingency Planning Workshop

OCD XI, together with the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (UN OCHA) conducted the Region XI Contingency Planning Workshop at Grand Men Seng Hotel, Davao City last 22-23 May 2014. The event aims to come up with mechanisms for resource mobilization and inter-agency coordination during the advent of hazards and impending disasters. Regional Director Loreto G. Rirao opened the event with a presentation on contingency planning process, while UN OCHAs Head of Sub-Office Mr. Muktar Ali Farah presented the description of the workshop including its structure and objectives. The activity was attended by representatives from the Regional DRRM Council Member Agencies and Local DRRM Officers.

OCD XII Conducts Incident

Command System Trainings OCD XII conducted Incident Command System (ICS) Trainings to improve the disaster management capabilities of the local government units in the region.

OCD ARMM Joins Course on

Geographical Information Systems OCD-ARMM together with ARMM- Humanitarian Emergency Action and Response Team (HEART),

comprehensive LDRRMP which will serve as a guide in the implementation of local DRRM programs, projects and response actions.(Titus Velez)

The Municipal DRRM Councils of Pigcawayan and Antipas, both in North Cotabato underwent the Basic ICS Training 7-9 April 2014 in General Santos City and on 4-6 June 2014 in Kidapawan City. On the other hand, the Municipal DRRM Councils of Polomolok, South Cotabato and Pikit, North Cotabato went through the Integrated Planning Course on 21-25 April and 12-16 May 2014, respectively.

OCD XII Provides Assistance in Preparing Contingency Plans

OCD XII provided technical assistance to the local government units in the region through conduct of Contingency Plan Formulation Workshops. On 31 March to 2 April 2014 at Durian Garden, Polomolok, South Cotabato, the Municipal DRRM Council (MDRRMC) of Malapatan, Sarangani drafted its Flood Contingency Plan, while the MDRRMC of Carmen, North Cotabato started the preparation of its Earthquake Contingency Plan on 9-11 June 2014 at The Pinnacle Hotel, Davao City. The Contingency Plans will be the local governments basis for response in case the hazard hit their municipality.

Maguindanao Provincial DRRM Council and Kabuntalan Municipal DRRM Council participated in the Geographical Information System (GIS) Refresher Training sponsored by the United Nations World Food Programme (UN-WFP) on 12-16 May 2014 at The Pinnacle Hotel in Davao City. Mr. Juanito G. Berja Jr., a GIS Specialist facilitated the training which aims to educate disaster response planners and managers in utilizing the Quantum GIS Program in policy formulation, action planning and decision-making. (Amier Ashan Aplal)

Parang Municipality Holds

Bomb and Fire Drill

OCD ARMM, together with the Philippine National Police, Armed Forces of the Philippines, Bureau of Fire Protection and Philippine Red Cross facilitated the conduct of an Orientation and Simulation Exercise for a Bomb and Fire Scenario at the Municipal Hall of Parang in Maguindanao on 21 May 2014. The event aims to enhance the disaster preparedness and response capabilities of Parang Municipal DRRM Council (MDRRMC), and enable it to handle various scenarios with special focus on fire incidents and possible bomb attacks. The orientation and exercise was attended by members of the MDRRMC, other municipal officials and employees, and local disaster responders. (Amier Ashan Aplal)

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Caraga Organizes Regional Incident Management Team

Caraga Regional DRRM Council, led by OCD CARAGA formally organized

R O S S T H E N A T I O N

Inspection of a NDRRM-funded road rehabilitation project in Tublay, Benguet on 14 May 2014. (OCD CAR)

DRRM Plan Formulation Workshop on 14-16 April 2014 for Marihatag, Surigao del Sur. (OCD CARAGA)

Pasay City Liga ng Barangay Unified Congress held in Baguio City on 7-9 April 2014. (OCD CAR)

OCD CAR

OCD CARAGA

Cordillera RDRRMC Ratifies

Response Operating Procedures The Cordillera DRRM Council Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for Response was ratified during its meeting on 28 April 2014 at Golden Pine Hotel, Baguio City, in order to direct and synchronize efficient management of disasters or any threatening situation in the region. The SOP for Response prescribes and establishes a precise color coded alert measures to be carried out by the chairperson and member agencies in steering the Emergency Operation Center. Likewise, the institutional and triggering mechanism during response phase is integrated in this SOP. It is the objective of this system to have a proactive and spontaneous course of action by the CRDRRMC. (Engr. Jose V. Valera)

OCD CAR Conducts Contingency Planning for Mankayan, Benguet

More than 90 participants from the Mankayan DRRM Council, Barangay DRRM Committees and its various stakeholders and private partners completed their Contingency Planning Workshop on 3-5 June 2014 at Mankayan Convention Hall. The activity aims to address specific hazards in the municipality through a forward planning process.

During the workshop, the speakers and facilitators discussed modules on

the Regional Incident Management Team (IMT) after its members completed the Training for Instructors (TFI) Course on 5-9 May 2014. Before undergoing TFI, the participants first completed the Incident Command System (ICS) Training Series. The organization of the IMT is in line with the establishment of ICS as part of the countrys on-scene disaster response system to ensure the effective consequence management of disasters or emergencies. OCD Caraga also conducted a Training of Facilitators (TOF) on Contingency Planning on 19-21 March 2014 in Butuan City. A TOF for Surigao del Sur was also conducted on 9-11 June 2014 in Tandag City. (April Rose Anne Y. Sanchez)

OCD CARAGA Facilitates Local DRRM Plan Formulation

OCD CARAGA facilitated the Local DRRM Plan Formulation Workshop for the Municipality of Marihatag, Surigao del Sur on 14-16 April 2014 and for the Municipality of Gigaquit, Surigao del Norte on 28-30 April 2014. The formulation workshops aimed to assess DRRM issues and challenges encountered by local government units, and explore interventions that will improve implementation. The two municipalities drafted their DRRM Plans and these will be subject to the approval of their respective Local C h i e f E x e c u t i v e s u p o n t h e recommendation of the Sangguniang Bayan. (April Rose Anne Y. Sanchez)

contingency planning and cluster approach, arranging response systems and actions, mock coordination meeting, and the contingency plan format. (Angela Manansala)

OCD CAR Distributes Improvised

Early Warning Devices A total of sixty-six batingtings were distributed to the municipalities of Abra, Apayao, Ifugao, Kalinga and Mountain Province on the second quarter of the year. These batingtings, emblazoned with instructions on emergency operations and alert sound codes, will serve as centerpieces of the community-based early warning system that is being organized in the region. The early warning system aims to generate and disseminate timely and accurate information to enable communities to undertake the necessary and appropriate preparedness measures or response. The Cordillera DRRM Council, led by OCD CAR, distributed the batingtings as token of appreciation for the local governments unwavering support and commitment in enhancing a culture of preparedness and in building disaster-resilient communities in the Cordilleras. (Andrew Alex H. Uy)

16

From the northernmost Province of Batanes to the southernmost Tawi Tawi Province, the Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Councils in the country under the leadership of the Office of Civil Defense conducted Provincial Summits on DRRM for Local Chief Executives during the first half of 2014. The series of activities follow the theme of the National and Regional Summits held last year. The events aim to educate the Local Chief Executives on their roles and responsibilities as chairs of the Local DRRM Councils, integrate DRRM into the plans, programs and systems of the local government, update the attendees on best practices and innovations, and introduce tools and processes in building disaster-resilient communities. Luzon In the Cagayan Valley and Cordillera regions, all the cities and municipalities were represented in their respective Provincial Summits. During the DRRM Summits of the six provinces in the region, OCD CAR, led by Regional Director Andrew Alex H. Uy, distributed batingtings, an improvised early warning device to the participating municipalities as token of

appreciation to the local governments efforts in disaster preparedness. The batingtings will serve as centerpieces of community-based early warning systems that are being installed in the mountainous region. Armed with the theme Together We Can, the Summit in Isabela was graced by Governor Faustino Bojie G. Dy III and OCD II Regional Director Norma S. Talosig on 24-25 June 2014 in Ilagan City. The activity was participated by almost 400 participants coming from the local leaders of the different municipalities, Provincial DRRM Council, national government organization and CSOs. The provinces of Cagayan, Batanes, Nueva Vizcaya and Quirino also conducted their respective activities. Led by OCD I Regional Director Melchito M. Castro, the four provinces of Ilocos Region likewise conducted their respective Summits during the first half of the year, wherein eighty cit ies and municipali t ies were represented. First to conduct was Pangasinan in February, followed by Ilocos Sur in April, La Union in May, and Ilocos Norte in June. OCD III Regional Director Josefina T. Timoteo spearheaded the Summit for Bataan on 23-24 May 2014, attended by 147 participants and held in

Balanga City. The Aurora Summit was held on 28-29 May 2014 in Baler with fifty-five participants, and was graced by Aurora Governor Gerardo A. Noveras. Resource speakers were from different government agencies. Similar activities were also held for the provinces of Bulacan, Pampanga, Tarlac and Zambales. Regional DRRM Council IV-A, led by OCD IV-A Regional Director Vicente F. Tomazar, also conducted Provincial Summits in Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal and Quezon. To broaden understanding DRRM issues and awareness on climate change adaptation tools, the activities included all the members of the Local DRRM Councils. In Bicol, OCD V conducted the Provincial Summits in Camarines Sur, Masbate, Catanduanes and Albay. A City DRRM Summit was likewise conducted in Naga. During the said activities, discussions highlighted the approved Joint Memorandum Circular 2014-1 which sets the implementing guidelines in the establishment and operation of Local DRRM Offices. The said Memorandum Circular was jointly approved and adopted by the National DRRM Council, the Department of Interior and Local Government, D e p a r t m e n t o f B u d g e t a n d Management, and the Civil Service

OCD II Regional Director Norma S. Talosig expresses her gratitude to the participants after the Signing of Commitment during the DRRM Summit of the countrys northernmost province Batanes held on 10-11 June 2014. (OCD II)

OCD III Regional Director Josefina T. Timoteo awards the Certificate of Appreciation to Barangay Captain Felipe M. Friginal, one of the speakers during Aurora Provincial DRRM Summit held on 28-29 May 2014 in Baler. (OCD III)

Mayors and Local DRRM Officers pose with the batingtings distributed during Abra DRRM Summit on 10 April 2014. The batingtings will be part of a community-based early warning systems being installed in the region. (OCD CAR)

Local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management OCD Convenes Provincial Summits on Disaster

Risk Reduction and Management

59 Provinces

17

Commission last 4 April 2014. Visayas In Negros Occidental, all twelve component cities and nineteen municipalities were represented during the Provincial Summit held on 13-14 May 2014 at LFisher Hotel. Bacolod City, an independent city also participated in the two-day lecture-workshop. During the Summit, Western Visayas Regional Director Rosario T. Cabrera highlighted the experiences and best practices of selected Local DRRM Councils. Other speakers imparted their knowledge in the use of DRRM assessment and planning tools, and the existing response protocols. Mindanao In the Zamboanga Peninsula, the three provinces conducted their respective Summits wi th s ixty s ix local government units represented. Zamboanga del Sur was held on 14-15

April 2014 at Hotel Alindahao, Pagadian City and Zamboanga del Norte on 6-7 May 2014 at Boulevard Function Hall in Dipolog City. Zamboanga City joined the Summit for Zamboanga Sibugay on 20-21 May 2014 at Roderics Resort in Ipil. In Northern Mindanao, OCD X led by Regional Director Ana C. Caeda, partnered with the Provincial DRRM Councils of Bukidnon, Camiguin, Lanao del Norte, Misamis Occidental and Misamis Oriental in organizing the Summits held in the region. The events are deemed vital for the preparedness of the local government units on the onslaught of any disaster that might hit the region. The activities also served as venue for consultation on major cha l lenges and gaps in the implementation of DRRM at the local level. Director Caeda said that the major highlight of the summits are the creation of Local DRRM Offices and the signing of declaration on the strengthened commitment to DRRM by

OCD VI Director Rosario T. Cabrera (left) leads the holding of Provincial Summit in the Province of Negros Occidental on 13-14 May 2014 at LFisher Hotel in Bacolod City. Thirty two local government units were represented in the said event. (OCD VI)

A participant reads the Declaration of Commitment prior to its signing during the Provincial Summit on DRRM held for Tawi-Tawi on 12-13 March 2014. The event was jointly organized by ARMM, OCD ARMM and Tawi-Tawi Province. (Photo by OCD ARMM)

Zamboanga del Sur Governor Antonio H. Cerilles addresses the participants of the Provincial Summit on DRRM held on 14-15 April 2014. Republic Act 10121 designates the Governors as the Chairpersons of their respective Provincial DRRM Council. (OCD IX)

Provincials Summits on DRRM January to June 2014

87 Cities 973 Municipalities 11,169 Participants

the Local Chief Executives. Also in Mindanao, Region XII conducted the Summit for Sarangani Province on 29-30 April at Family Country Hotel in General Santos City, North Cotabato on 20-21 May 2014 at Lady M in Kidapawan City and South Cotabato on 22-23 May 2014 at EMR Center in Koronadal City. A total of 353 DRRM stakeholders attended the activities including North Cotabato Governor Emmylou Talio-Mendoza and twenty-two Mayors. Other Mindanao provinces which also conducted DRRM Summits are Davao del Norte in Region XI, the Caraga provinces of Dinagat Islands, Surigao del Norte, Surigao del Sur, Agusan del Norte and Agusan del Sur, and the ARMM provinces of Basilan, Lanao del Sur, Sulu and Tawi-Tawi. (Noel H. Mapalo with reports from OCD Regional Offices. Research by Deniece Krizia P. Ballesteros)

18

The Philippine Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Act of 2010 defines Community-based Disaster Risk Reduction and Management as a process in which at risk communities are act ive ly engaged in the identification, analysis, treatment, monitoring and evaluation of disaster risks in order to reduce their vulnerabilities and enhance their capacities, and where the people are at the heart of decision-making and implementation of disaster risk reduction and management activities, (Section 3 e). Under the same law, the Office of Civil Defense, as the prime DRRM administrator of the country, is mandated to provide advice and assistance to increase the capacity of communities especially those in high- risk areas. It is in this direction that OCD reaches out and extends training and technical assistance to local government units and barangays, given that these administrative units are better positioned in implementing meaningful community-based DRRM. Baggao, Cagayan OCD II, in partnership with the Municipality of Baggao, conducted a Barangay DRRM Seminar for the local government units Barangay Chairpersons, Officials and Secretaries on 22-23 May 2014 at Hotel Kimikarlai, Tuguegarao City, Cagayan.

The activity aims to recognize and strengthen the capacities of the barangays in mitigating and preparing for, responding to and recovering from the impact of disasters. OCD II Regional Director Norma S. Talosig recognized the vital role of barangays in implementing DRRM and the need to increase their capacities. Paracelis, Mountain Province

On 10-11 June 2014, OCD CAR conducted a Barangay DRRM Plan Formulation Workshop for the ten barangays of the Municipality of Paracelis, Mountain Province. The Barangay DRRM Plan (BDRRMP) will serve as guide and basis for the Barangay DRRM Council in managing disaster risks and in achieving sustainable development by enhancing the communitys resilience. The BDRRMP contains the barangays goals, programs and activities, aligned with the four thematic areas of DRRM. General Mariano Alvarez, Cavite OCD IV-A, together with the Municipal DRRM Office conducted a Barangay Training on Disaster Preparedness and Contingency Plan Formulation for the twenty seven barangays of General Mariano Alvarez in Cavite on 9-11 June 2014.

An estimated 130 participants were provided an orientation on disaster preparedness, followed by a series of workshops on the formulation of Barangay Contingency Plan. During the activity, OCD IV-A Regional Director, Vicente F. Tomazar stressed the importance of having a contingency plan at the barangay lelvel. (Noel H. Mapalo with reports from Angela Manansala, OCD II and OCD IV-A)

Barangay DRRM Plan Formulation Workshop for the ten barangays of Paracelis, Mountain Province on 10-11 June 2014. (OCD CAR)

DRRM Seminar of Barangay Captains, Officials and Secretaries of Baggao Municipality on 22-23 May 2014 at Hotel Kimikarlai, Tuguegarao City, Cagayan. (OCD II)

Local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management OCD Reaches Out to Barangays to Strengthen

Community Preparedness & Resilience

A community leader reviews the draft of their Barangay DRRM Plan. (OCD CAR)

19

Flood is the overflowing of water from streams and other bodies of water or an accumulation of rainwater in low-lying ares. Flood can cause severe damages to lives and properties. CAUSES OF FLOODS The natural causes of floods are: Intense and prolonged rainfall Storm surge High tide Human activities which can cause or contribute to flooding are: Increased urbanization and coastal

development Deforestation Improper garbage disposal River encroachment Failure of levees and dams Diversion of natural waterways. TYPES OF FLOODS River floods is the overflowing of river when run-off exceeds the capacity of channels or depression and flooding the adjacent low-lying areas called floodplain. Flashflood happens when a very short period of unusually heavy rainfall occurs in a mountainous or hilly area. Most casualties are due to flashfloods. Coastal flood occurs when strong onshore winds push the water inland and cause a rise in sea levels. Worst cases could occur if heavy rains coincide with occurrence of high tide. B E F O R E Preparing for flood is a shared responsibility: Be aware of how often your location is likely

to be flooded and to what extent. Know the flood warning system in your

community and be sure your family knows it. Keep informed of daily weather conditions. Know the designated evacuation area of

your family and livestock and assign family members specific instructions and responsibilities according to an evacuation plan.

Prepare a handy emergency supply kit with first aid kit, canned food and opener, water, clothing, blanket, battery-operated radio, flashlights and extra batteries.

Securely anchor weak dwellings and items.

Listen to your radio for news and emergency instructions.

If advised to evacuate, DO SO. Don't panic. Move to a safe area before access is cut off by flood waters.

Store drinking water in containers as water service may be interrupted.

Turn off electricity at the main switch in the building before evacuating. Lock and secure your house.

Get involved with the disaster risk management programs of your Barangay Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Committee.

D U R I N G. STAY CALM. Avoid areas prone to sudden rise of water or

flash floods. Do not attempt to cross rivers or flowing

streams where water is above the knee. Beware of water-covered roads and bridges. Avoid unnecessary exposure to elements. Do not swim or ride boats in swollen rivers. Eat only well-cooked food and protect

leftovers against contamination. Drink clean or boiled water ONLY. A F T E R Re-enter the house with caution using

flashlight, lanterns or torches. Flammables may be inside.

Be alert for fire hazards like broken electric wires.

Do not eat food and drink water until they have been checked for flood water contamination.

Report broken utility lines (electricity, water, gas and telephone) to appropriate agencies/authorities.

Do not turn on main switch or use appliances and other equipment until they have been checked by a competent electrician.

Consult health authorities for immunization requirements.

Do not go sight-seeing in disaster areas. Your presence might hamper rescue and other emergency operations.

Reference: Information materials produced under the Building Community Resilience and Strengthening Local Government Capacities for Recovery and Disaster Risk Management or RESILIENCE Project, implemented with support from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA).

Awareness and Preparedness Keep Safe from Floods For more information and tips on preparing for hazards and disasters,

download and watch the Project DINA Videos

(Disaster Information for Nationwide Awareness)

Available Videos

Project DINA Videos can be downloaded for FREE from www.ocd.ndrrmc.gov.ph

For more information, email us

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