The provincial government, through its Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (DRRM) office, gathered all local DRRM councils across Iloilo for the first-ever summit showcasing advancements and resource capabilities in disaster management at the Pototan Astrodome in Pototan town on Wednesday.

“We want to create awareness to the people that LDRRM offices are there to provide necessary assistance in four thematic areas, namely response, disaster preparedness, prevention and mitigation, and rehabilitation and recovery,” PDRRM officer Cornelio Salinas said in an interview.

The exhibit of state-of-the-art facilities such as the Government Emergency Communications System (GECS) and Mobile Operations Vehicle for Emergency (MOVE), including the hub dispatch motorcycle and drone unmanned aerial vehicle of the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), was among the highlights of the event.

Also, a total of PHP43 million in financial aid was released to one component city and 42 municipalities, along with communication devices and portable generating systems to promote the renewable energy concept.

The assistance is intended to mitigate the impact of the El Niño phenomenon and to support Project 1-43 (province, local government units) for the province’s tree-growing program.

Department of the Interior and Local Government Undersecretary for Public Safety, Serafin Baretto Jr., said that the distribution of communication devices and portable solar generating systems is a testament to the province’s dedication to enhancing the emergency response measure.

Barretto also emphasized the timeliness of the summit.

“Through this gathering, we can share our insights, strategies, and best practices enforcing our collective commitment to safeguarding our communities,” he said.

Drawing from the recent flooding experienced in Luzon, he reminded everyone to remain vigilant.

“Despite preparedness, the worst may still happen in the face of disasters. But as long as we continue to respond, adapt, and innovate, we can overcome these challenges,” Baretto said.

The summit with the theme “Together Towards Resilience: Empowering Iloilo for a Robust and Progressive Tomorrow” formed part of the activities for National Disaster Resilience Month. (PNA)