The Bangsamoro government, with support from the Korean government through the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) and United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), on Wednesday launched the region’s first-ever Bangsamoro Disaster Response Plan (BDRP).

The plan aims to strengthen the region’s capacity to prepare for, respond to, and recover from disasters and emergencies, with a focus on protecting 1.7 million children and their families in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).

Chief Minister Abdulraof Macacua led the launch and emphasized the government’s commitment to resilience and moral governance.

“We offer the Bangsamoro Disaster Response Plan as the embodiment of our shared commitment to safeguarding life and property, upholding dignity, and strengthening our resilience in the face of disasters and adversity,” he said during his speech.

The plan was developed by the Ministry of Social Services and Development, Bangsamoro Rapid Emergency Action on Disaster Incidence, and other members of the Bangsamoro Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council.

It identifies flooding and rain-induced landslides as the region’s most frequent and damaging hazards.

In 2022, Severe Tropical Storm Paeng claimed 63 lives and caused over PHP3.5 billion in damage. In July 2024, flash floods affected more than 187,000 families.

The BDRP outlines how local governments can lead emergency responses, use their own resources, and request assistance from national agencies, nearby LGUs, or partners when needed.

Meanwhile, KOICA Country Director Jung Youngsun said the plan goes beyond disaster response.

“It is about saving lives, protecting children, and ensuring that communities can stand strong in the face of future disasters,” he said.

For his part, UNICEF acting Representative Behzad Noubary said the plan will help reduce the impact of emergencies on children.

“Children are especially vulnerable to climate and environmental shocks,” he said. “This plan will not only reduce the impact of emergencies on children and their families but also empower them to take part in the response.”

The BDRP was developed through consultations with BARMM ministries, local governments, civil society organizations, and humanitarian partners. (PNA)