Tuesday, June 03, 2008 Disaster councils told to focus on risk reduction, mitigation
OFFICIALS of the Benguet Provincial Government were asked to focus more on calamity preparedness than disaster response.
The Office of the Civil Defense (OCD) is shifting from the disaster-response consciousness to disaster risk reduction and mitigation realizing this could save more lives and properties through pro-active measures.
Instead of merely responding to calamities, the Provincial Disaster Coordinating Council (PDCC) was told to come up with a contingency plan, detailing the councils' strengths and weaknesses and providing measures to address or further strengthen these.
OCD Regional Director Olivia Luces said more lives and properties will be saved if the public is aware and prepared for any disaster, be it natural or manmade.
The OCD encouraged the formulation of emergency plans, which will help network and coordinate individuals, agencies and organizations for effective and faster response while ensuring enough standby resources in times of disasters.
The activation of all barangay disaster coordinating councils (BDCCs) is also being pushed. There are 41,945 BDCCs nationwide, formed to be the primary response and coordinating bodies during emergency situations.
Benguet is one of the pilot provinces in government's hazard mitigation program, due to its susceptibility to geological hazards, particularly landslides. (JC)
