The attendees of the Multi-Hazard Disaster Summit organized by the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office. (PIA photo)
San Fernando City, Pampanga – A multi-hazard disaster summit was recently held in San Fernando, Pampanga to raise public awareness on the various potential hazards and disasters that may hit the province.
Angelina Blanco, Pampanga Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office chief, said the summit is a good platform to recognize preventive and mitigating measures in dealing with different potential dangers and calamities that the province could possibly face.
Governor Dennis Pineda, emphasized the obligation of the public official in disaster management and when officials know what to do in crisis situations, “they will be able to efficiently guide their constituents.”
“They will also be able to give immediate aid and relief because they know what to do,” he said.
Highlight of the summit was the discussion of Republic Act 10121 or the Philippine Disaster Risk Management Act and the appropriate use of the five percent Local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Fund, which is allotted for disaster prevention, preparedness, response, and rehabilitation.
Other topics tackled were the climate outlook and the preparation for the rainy days; the threats of earthquake, tsunami or tidal wave and fire; the importance of hazard maps; importance of engineering, geological, and geo-hazard assessment; and emerging and infectious diseases.
Barangay officials, members of the provincial committees, community workers, youth representatives, religious and business sector representatives and member agencies of the PDRRMC attended the summit.
This summit was part of the province’s observance of the National Disaster Resilience Month. (Jojo Mangahis)