Marcos: Disaster response should be scientific, innovative

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said Friday that disaster response should be based on science-based innovation.

“It has become imperative that our Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (DRRM) system undergoes continuous improvement to address evolving circumstances. It includes our individual obligation to follow proactive, vigilant, and adaptable strategies for our own and our communities’ safety," the President said during the 24th Gawad KALASAG National Awarding Ceremony in Pasay City.

“I once again call on the NDRRMC (National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council) and all other concerned agencies and the LGUs – our always our first responders –  to continue working together to develop innovative solutions that are science-based, that are sustainable, and are future-ready, and establish clear guidelines for more effective disaster-response,” he added.

Likewise, the chief executive said the initiative for disaster response should be guided by the “Build Back Better” strategy in recovery, rehabilitation, and reconstruction.

Also on Friday, the President led the conferment of the Gawad Kalasag Seal and Special Awards for Excellence in DRRM and Humanitarian Assistance.

The event recognized various stakeholders implementing and promoting DRRM, climate change adaptation, and humanitarian assistance programs, as well as honors the courage, sacrifice, and heroism shown by individuals, groups, or institutions before, during, and after emergency situations resulting from natural or human-induced hazards.

“Courageous, compassionate, and determined—our selfless volunteers faced strong currents to rescue those in need; you are the innovators  who pioneered new technologies for disaster preparedness, organizations that championed people participation for a more [transformative] DRRM strategies, and decision-making that is ensured that every plan is done properly and is executed efficiently,” he added.

Among the awardees were students John Niño Suarez at Emer Jhune Donaire, who despite not having enough training on water rescue, exhibited courage by saving a drowning victim.

“Tunay na kapuri-puri ang pinakita nilang tapang at karapat-dapat na tawagin sila bilang bayani,” President Marcos said.

(Their courage is truly praiseworthy. They deserve to be hailed heroes.)

The President also acknowledged Rafael “Paeng" Valencia for his contribution through innovative policies, technological advancements, and transformative strategies on climate change and DRRM.

These include the creation of the 911 On Call Incorporated; ang Pailaw at Pabahay Program to aid in the reconstruction of houses in remote and poor areas.

Valencia also spearheaded the initiative on mobile vaccination to far-flung barangays.

Earlier in the day, the President assured the public that the government is on top of the situation amid the recent eruption of Kanlaon Volcano in Negros Island.

The Kanlaon Volcano eruption prompted the government to evacuate 45,000 residents away from the six-kilometer radius danger zone.

The government is targeting to evacuate 84,000 individuals with 11 days before Christmas.—AOL/RSJ, GMA Integrated News