In line with the city government’s thrust on strengthening Baguio’s disaster resilience, the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (CDRRMC) chaired by Mayor Benjamin Magalong conducted a tabletop exercise workshop, Sept. 7 to 9, to test and update the city’s hydrometeorological contingency plan that was formulated earlier this year.
Facilitated by the CDRRM Office under Antonette Anaban, the three-day activity was participated in by CDRRMC members composed of representatives from various government offices, line agencies, utility companies, and communication groups.
Hydrometeorological hazards are caused by extreme meteorological and climate events, such as floods, droughts, hurricanes/typhoons, tornadoes, landslides, or mudslides.
A similar updating workshop was also conducted on the city’s earthquake contingency plan last August and another scheduled later this year on its emerging and re-emerging infectious disease contingency plan.
City Mayor’s Office chief of staff and CDRRMC action officer, Engr. Felipe Puzon, said the workshops are in keeping with the city government’s pro-active stance in dealing with disasters and its thrust to enhance the city’s disaster resilience capabilities.
The latest workshop included a presentation of the city’s contingency plan for hydrometeorological hazards as of February this year; identification of gaps, issues, and challenges; presentation, consolidation, and synthesis of outputs; updating of the city’s hydromet contingency plan; ways forward; and agreements.
CDRRM Officer Christopher Teoxon said the plan aims to provide an effective, efficient, and immediate response mechanism during the onset of typhoons and other hydrometeorological hazards.
Republic Act 10121 or the Philippine Risk Reduction and Management Act of 2010 states it is the function of the Local DRRMC to manage the adverse effects of emergencies and carry out recovery activities in the affected area.
The law also mandates the LDRRMC to take the lead in preparing for, responding to, and helping the affected area recover from the effects of any disaster.
May our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ continue to bless and keep us all safe.
