Makati, UNISDR to hold disaster risk reduction seminar for students

MANILA, Philippines—Seeking to arm the city’s youth with information on disaster response, the Makati City government and the United Nations International Strategy for Disaster Reduction will hold on Thursday a day-long conference tackling disaster risk reduction initiatives and programs.

In a statement, Makati Mayor Jejomar Erwin Binay said it was important for the youth to be actively involved in disaster mitigation discussions to make them more aware of the changing times, especially today when the impact of natural calamities are much harder.

“If their minds are molded into the proper mindset on the environment, we can be assured that we will have a greener future and environment,” the mayor said.

Thursday’s event, which coincides with the International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction, will be held at the University of Makati grounds where all public and private schools on all levels are expected to participate.

Aside from poster and banner making contests, students would also be taught basic first aid and fire prevention drills, and shown disaster response equipment and other related exhibits.

A symposium on Children and Safe Schools would be held in the afternoon with invited experts from the United Nations’ Children’s Fund, Department of Education and Philippine National Red Cross to discuss the potential involvement of the youth in disaster mitigation.