Actor Dingdong Dantes asked lawmakers at the House of Representatives on Monday to certify as urgent a proposed legislation seeking to institutionalize the representation and participation of the youth in disaster risk reduction management councils (DRRMC).
Dantes, who is also a commissioner-at-large of the National Youth Commission, said that with the country facing natural and man-made disasters, it is imperative to highlight the role of the youth in disaster mitigation.
“The passage of the bill is urgent due to the natural and man-made disasters which we cannot avoid. We cannot avoid the effects of climate change, even man-made disasters like fires and the ‘big earthquake.’ It is about time to equip, empower and give recognition to the youth,” Dantes said.
The 34-year-old actor said that the youth can assist in information dissemination and to drum up public awareness during calamities.
“Youth participation will play a big role in disaster preparedness, most especially if it is officially included in the NDRRMC. We can help in disseminating information and help in public awareness, such as launching information campaigns related to disaster preparedness. We have to be equipped and empowered,” the actor said.
The NYC supports the passage of House Bills 5637, 5640 and 5758 which all seek to institutionalize youth representation in the country’s DRRM councils.
The commission said that the youth is one of the most vulnerable sectors in times of disasters, adding that for every 10 disaster victims, 4 to 5 are young people.
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