The City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (CDRRMC) has been tasked to formulate the implementing rules and regulations (IRR) of the ordinance that prescribes policies for the institutionalization of Baguio’s volunteer program and provides mechanisms for volunteer empowerment and development.
CDRRM Office Head, Engr. Charles Carame made the announcement during the CDRRMC 1st quarter meeting on March 25.
Ordinance 64, s. 2003 was passed to establish a program for volunteers in Baguio City and to create the City Volunteers Council, prescribing guidelines for its operations and institutionalize mechanics of awards, recognition, and other forms of support and assistance to volunteers among other things.
The ordinances is pursuant to Republic Act 9418 or the Volunteer Act of 2007 which provides that local government units establish volunteer programs in their respective locality to promote and encourage volunteers in government and non-government programs and projects.
The Act also enjoins all residents, whether in government service or not, to render volunteer service in social, economic and humanitarian development undertakings in the community.
The ordinance declared it a policy of the city government to recognize volunteers and the very act of volunteerism as a significant driver of political, economic and social development as it builds inclusion, ownership, solidarity and social cohesion.
“Volunteerism has the potential to lead to stronger communities, capacity development and increased social capital that would eventually redound to gaining benefits from sustainable community development,” the measure stated. – Gaby B. Keith
