PDRRMO Quezon highlights disaster preparedness at UNDP SHIELD Forum

By Nimfa Estrellado PDRRMO Head Dr. Melchor Avenilla Jr. and other panelists at the recent UNDP SHIELD 2nd Annual Stakeholders' Forum in...

By Nimfa Estrellado

PDRRMO Head Dr. Melchor Avenilla Jr. and other panelists at the recent UNDP SHIELD 2nd Annual Stakeholders' Forum in Marco Polo Hotel, Ortigas, Pasig City. (Quezon PIO)

LUCENA CITY, Quezon - Climate change is a continuing issue that poses significant challenges to communities worldwide, increasing the frequency and intensity of natural disasters. This critical situation was clearly recognized at the recent United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) SHIELD 2nd Annual Stakeholders' Forum, where Quezon Province took a leading role in sharing its experiences and commitment to building resilience.

The UNDP SHIELD program, a multi-stakeholder initiative, seeks to strengthen institutions and empower localities against disasters and climate change in the Philippines. Quezon Province is one of the program's target areas, given its vulnerability to natural hazards such as typhoons, floods, and landslides. The program has been instrumental in enhancing the province's disaster preparedness through various initiatives, including the provision of equipment, training, and technical assistance.



SHIELD's overarching goal is to create a more resilient Philippines. According to the DOST website, SHIELD aims to "develop and operationalize a sustainable, gender-responsive, and risk-informed system that empowers localities to manage the risks of natural hazards and climate change." This includes promoting inclusivity and ensuring that the needs of all community members, particularly vulnerable groups, are considered in disaster preparedness and response efforts.

Representatives from the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO) of Quezon Province were key participants at the forum held on January 22nd at the Marco Polo Hotel in Ortigas. The PDRRMO, led by Dr. Melchor Avenilla Jr., actively participated in various forum activities, including panel discussions and workshops. They showcased the province's innovative approaches to disaster risk reduction and management, highlighting the importance of community engagement and local government leadership.

This focus on local empowerment was a key theme throughout the forum. The event provided a platform for PDRRMO representatives to share insights and experiences on disaster preparedness and response, with discussions focused on necessary preparations for future disasters and enhancing community resilience. Key topics included early warning systems, evacuation planning, and capacity building for local communities.

As a testament to the province's proactive stance on disaster readiness, Dr. Avenilla, head of the PDRRMO, was invited to be a panelist on the crucial issue of local funding access for community resilience. Dr. Avenilla shared Quezon Province's experiences and strategies in securing and managing funds for disaster risk reduction and management initiatives, highlighting the importance of local government support and community participation.

"We believe that investing in disaster preparedness is investing in the future of our province," stated Dr. Avenilla during the panel discussion. "By prioritizing local funding for disaster risk reduction, we are empowering our communities to better withstand and recover from the impacts of natural hazards. This includes not only providing financial resources, but also fostering a culture of preparedness and resilience at the grassroots level."

To ensure the effectiveness of these efforts, Dr. Avenilla further emphasized the importance of financial accountability in disaster risk reduction. "Transparent and accountable financial management is crucial to ensure that funds are utilized effectively and efficiently for the benefit of the people," he stated. This commitment to transparency ensures that resources are directed where they are most needed, maximizing the impact of disaster preparedness initiatives.

While the Governor was unable to attend, the Provincial Government of Quezon reiterated its commitment to supporting the PDRRMO in its efforts to effectively assist Quezonians during times of crisis. This includes providing the necessary resources and ensuring the office is well-equipped to handle disaster situations.

Beyond showcasing individual success stories, the forum served as a valuable opportunity for stakeholders to network and build partnerships, fostering a collaborative approach to disaster risk reduction and management. Representatives from various government agencies, non-governmental organizations, and the private sector were all in attendance, highlighting the importance of multi-sectoral cooperation in building resilience.

Among the key figures present at the event were Eastern Samar Governor Ben Evardone, Rodolfo Calzado, Jr., Assistant Secretary for Development Cooperation of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) (Philippines), who addressed the importance of investing in science, technology, and innovation through development cooperation, and Luigi Pilarta, Local Government Operations Officer at the Department of the Interior and Local Government, who addressed the Metro Manila Resilience Network. Their participation underscored the commitment of various sectors to supporting initiatives like the UNDP SHIELD program.

The event concluded with a renewed commitment from all participants to work together towards a more resilient Quezon Province. This collaborative spirit, encompassing government agencies, NGOs, and the private sector, will be crucial in implementing effective disaster risk reduction strategies. By sharing knowledge, resources, and best practices, stakeholders can collectively contribute to building a safer and more resilient future for the people of Quezon.