Robredo boasts of disaster preparedness of LGUs

Interior Secretary Jesse M. Robredo. INQUIRER FILE PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines—Interior Secretary Jesse Robredo said Monday that about 70 to 80 per cent of the country’s local government units (LGUs) are prepared to face natural calamities.

Robredo said that of the country’s over 1,700  LGUs, 70 to 80 per cent are prepared in case typhoons and other disasters strike their communities.

Robredo’s statement  was part of  the  report that was unveiled during the National Capital Region “Tapatan Roadshow on Disaster Preparedness and Climate Change Adaptation” held at SMX Convention Center, Mall of Asia, Pasay City.

President Benigno Aquino III was the guest of honor at the event.

In the report, Robredo said 92 per cent, or 1,580 of the LGUs have their own area-wide warning and alarm system; 78 per cent, or 1,334 LGUs  have organized their emergency response, rescue and medical teams; while  86 per cent, or 1,473 have  put up their  evacuation centers.

The secretary also reported that 6,775 LGUs, including villages, have formed their Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Councils, whereas 2,739 LGUs have functional DRRM plans.

“It is my fervent hope that in the coming months more LGUs will come out to say, ‘we are ready,’” said Robredo.

Robredo said that before this year ends, “Seal of Disaster Preparedness” will be awarded to deserving LGUs that that have demonstrated exemplary performance in carrying out the government’s disaster preparedness and climate change program.