The Future of OCD Pushing for Amendments to Enhance Disaster Response

The Future of OCD Pushing for Amendments to Enhance Disaster Response

In its ongoing efforts to improve the country's disaster response and early warning systems, the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) is seeking amendments to the law creating the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC). According to OCD Administrator Ariel Nepomuceno, these amendments will enable the agency to make more effective decisions in times of crisis.

To achieve this goal, the OCD has identified three priority actions for 2025. The first is to modify the law governing the NDRRMC, allowing for the creation of an executive committee that can make key decisions without needing to convene the full council. This move will streamline decision-making and enable a faster response to disasters.

The second priority is to enhance the Philippines' early warning system. To achieve this, the OCD plans to collaborate with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources and the Department of Science and Technology to develop a more comprehensive and creative warning system. A reliable warning system is essential for enabling early action and protecting lives, livelihoods, and properties.

As an example of what can be achieved through effective warning systems, Nepomuceno cited Thailand's nationwide warning system, which features over 600 towers equipped with sirens that provide critical information to the public every 10-15 minutes. The OCD aims to work with local government units (LGUs) and disaster responders to develop a similar system in the Philippines.

The third priority is to promote disaster resilience through an educational campaign targeting the youth, LGUs, and disaster responders. Nepomuceno emphasized the importance of empowering LGUs to take ownership of their own disaster preparedness efforts. He noted that while the national government may be able to respond quickly in times of crisis, LGUs must also take responsibility for their own localities.

In particular, Nepomuceno encouraged LGUs to invest in essential equipment, such as rubber boats, which can greatly enhance their ability to respond effectively during disasters.

By pushing for these amendments and prioritizing the development of an effective early warning system, the OCD is committed to enhancing the country's disaster response capabilities and saving lives through effective preparedness and resilience.

Edward Lance Arellano Lorilla

CEO / Co-Founder

Enjoy the little things in life. For one day, you may look back and realize they were the big things. Many of life's failures are people who did not realize how close they were to success when they gave up.