OCD, Lanao Sur DRRMO conduct ICS training

MARAWI CITY (PIA) — The Office of Civil Defense in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao (OCD-BARMM) and the Lanao del Sur Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO) held an Incident Command System (ICS) Executive Training Course for 37 members of the PDRRM Council on April 7 to enhance coordination among agencies during emergency situations.

ICS is a standardized system used for managing emergencies, providing a coordinated approach that integrates all parties involved in DRRM.

PDRRMO Head Shaminoden M. Sambitory said the ICS training is structured into Levels 1 through 4, with the executive course focused on ICS overview and terminologies. This ensures that local officials, department heads, and council members understand the basics of ICS and their roles during emergencies.

“It is crucial to capacitate them to ensure there is no duplication of efforts. In ICS, we aim to prevent situations where services are not provided or responses are duplicated. These are key areas we prioritize to ensure effective emergency management,” Sambitory said.

According to Sambitory, the province’s geography poses challenges in coordination and communication during emergencies. Some areas lack signal, necessitating the use of two-way radios as alternatives for communication.

“Because of this, there is a delay in terms of information dissemination. But we are always trying to adopt alternative ways of disseminating information and getting reports from our areas,” he added.

Sambitory also underscored the importance of continuous training to enhance the province’s emergency preparedness. To support this, the PDRRMO has planned a series of capability-building activities, including a second batch for the ICS executive course and advanced ICS training (Levels 1-4).

Other specialized courses for responders include Hazardous Material (Hazmat) Training, Water Search and Rescue (WASAR), Urban Search and Rescue (USAR), and First Aid and Basic Life Support. (APB/PIA-10/Lanao del Sur)

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17 LGUs in Lanao del Sur demonstrate growing commitment to DRRM, earn Gawad Kalasag seal

MARAWI CITY (PIA) — Local government units (LGUs) in Lanao del Sur are demonstrating heightened awareness and proactive approach to disaster risk reduction and management (DRRM) and climate change adaptation. This change is evident in the increasing number of LGUs in the province receiving the Gawad KALASAG (Kalamidad at Sakuna Labanan, Sariling Galing ang Kaligtasan) award.

Only three (3) municipalities – Bubong, Piagapo, and Wao – received the prestigious seal in 2022. This number rose to eight (8) in 2023, to include the Provincial Government of Lanao del Sur and Marawi City.

“In 2022, we only had three awardees in Lanao del Sur. In 2023, the province of Lanao del Sur and seven component LGUs became awardees. This 2024, we have 17 awardees. It shows that in terms of DRRM, we are moving forward,” said Provincial DRRM Officer Shaminoden Sambitory.

The 2024 ‘fully-compliant’ awardees include the Provincial Government of Lanao del Sur, Marawi City, and the municipalities of Bacolod Kalawi, Balabagan, Balindong, Binidayan, Buadipuso-Buntong, Bubong, Butig, Calanogas, Kapatagan, Lumba Bayabao, Saguiaran, Pagayawan, Piagapo, Taraka, and Wao.

Sambitory highlighted that as more LGUs are earning the prestigious seal, efforts on improving preparedness and response in the province become stronger, benefiting the communities and strengthening collective resilience.

“We are hoping that the number of our awardees will further increase next year,” he said.

The Gawad KALASAG  is an annual search that recognizes LGUs, individuals, and organizations that promote and implement exemplary DRRM and climate change adaptation practices, as well as humanitarian assistance programs. (APB/PIA-10 Lanao del Sur)

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DRRM Council approves enhanced contingency plans for Lanao del Sur

MARAWI CITY (PIA) — The Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (DRRM) Council of Lanao del Sur has approved and endorsed four updated contingency plans to address major natural hazards to improve the province’s disaster preparedness and response.

The approved plans—covering flooding, landslides, typhoons, and earthquakes— were approved by the Council during its 4th quarter meeting on December 12, 2024 , and will be submitted to the Sangguniang Panlalawigan for adoption.

Provincial DRRM Officer Shaminoden M. Sambitory emphasized the critical need to revise these plans annually, noting the unpredictable impacts of climate change and the province’s vulnerability to various natural disasters. “While we have had contingency plans in previous years, we must ensure that they are updated each year to reflect the changing realities of our environment and the risks we face,” he said.

In addition to the four natural hazard contingency plans, Sambitory expressed hopes that, by next year, the Council will also adopt a contingency plan addressing human-induced crises, particularly armed conflict.

“This is of utmost importance, and as such, we are collaborating with the security sector to develop a comprehensive contingency plan for armed conflict,” he added. (APB/PIA-10 Lanao del Sur)

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Lanao del Sur strengthens DRRM with new review board

MARAWI CITY (PIA) — The Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (PDRRM) Council of Lanao del Sur has approved the reconstitution of the Provincial Review Board to ensure that all Local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Plans (LDRRMPs) are comprehensive, effective, and aligned with the province’s overall disaster risk reduction strategy.

An LDRRMP is a strategic guide for local government units (LGUs) in managing disaster risks, responding to emergencies, and improving community resilience to both natural and human-induced hazards. The newly formed Provincial Review Board will evaluate plans to address local risks and align them with higher-level strategies.

The Board comprises key provincial officers, including Provincial DRRM Officer Shaminoden Sambitory, Provincial DILG Officer Cader Indar, Provincial Planning Officer Subaida Mala, Provincial Social Welfare and Development Officer Mariam Casim, and Atty. Datu Hamad Abas of the Bangsamoro Rapid Emergency Action on Disaster Incidence (READi).

“Dapat ngayong taon nagsisimula na tayo sa pagpaplano kung paano pa natin mapapalakas ang LDRRMPs (We should start planning this year on how we can further strengthen the LDRRMPs),” LDRRMO IV Adil Robroy Macarambon of the Provincial DRRM Office said during the 4th quarter meeting of the PDRRMC on December 12. 

He pointed out that in many LGUs, the programs, projects, and activities (PPAs) in their plans are often not fully aligned with risk-based strategies and other essential considerations. 

“Minsan, ang mga PPAs ay hindi risk-based, hindi gender-sensitive, at hindi child-friendly (Sometimes, the PPAs are not risk-based, not gender-sensitive, and not child-friendly),“ he added.

To address this, the Provincial DRRM Office, in partnership with UNICEF, the BARMM government, the Office of Civil Defense, and the Ministry of the Interior and Local Government, has formed a team to train LGUs on developing appropriate PPAs. These efforts aim to improve the effectiveness of LDRRMPs.

Macarambon said they have already conducted two batches of enhancement workshops with the LGUs. According to him, the goal is to complete the enhancement of plans for the 40 component LGUs, after which they will consolidate all the plans. (APB/PIA-10 Lanao del Sur)

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Lanao del Sur PDRRMC heightens alert amid typhoon Kristine

MARAWI CITY (PIA) — The Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (PDRRM) Council of Lanao del Sur convened a special meeting on Wednesday, October 23, to prepare and address the possible effects of typhoon Kristine in the province.

Provincial Vice Governor Mohammad Khalid R. Adiong led the meeting, directing the PDRRM Office to closely monitor the area and ensure the province is ready for any eventuality.

Although the tropical storm’s main impact is in the north, Lanao del Sur continues to experience scattered rain showers, thunderstorms, and strong winds from its trough.

Provincial DRRM Officer Shaminoden M. Sambitory reported that an uprooted tree in Barangay Lumbac Engud, Madamba, and another fallen tree in Barangay Balindong, Masiu, damaged a house and injured a senior citizen, who was quickly taken to the nearest hospital.

Crews have begun clearing operations, removing uprooted trees from affected areas.

The provincial government activated its Emergency Operations Center and implemented the Bravo emergency response protocol. The Provincial DRRM Operations Center is now on blue alert, and local government units and DRRM offices are on standby for emergencies.

Due to the inclement weather, some schools have suspended classes. On the other hand, the Amai Pakpak Medical Center in the city has confirmed its readiness to handle any medical emergencies.

Although the impact in the area is less severe than in other parts of the country, Sambitory urged residents to remain at home for safety, as moderate to heavy rains and strong winds are expected until Friday.

He advised the public to take safety precautions at home. Seal windows and doors, clear drains and gutters, and stock essential supplies like water, food, medications, flashlights, batteries, and a first aid kit.

Sambitory further assured that there will be continuous 24/7 monitoring, with updates and advisories provided to the public through various channels. (APB/PIA-10 Lanao del Sur) 

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Lanao del Sur enhances disaster resilience thru training, technology, and community engagement

MARAWI CITY (PIA) — The Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO) in Lanao del Sur is adopting a holistic approach to enhance disaster resilience across the province by integrating innovative training programs, advanced technology, and active community participation.

To empower local government units (LGUs) and residents to prepare for and respond to emergencies effectively, the PDRRMO is actively engaging communities, students, and youth in disaster preparedness activities.

Provincial DRRM Officer Shaminoden M. Sambitory said they are training LGUs so they can, in turn, provide training to the province’s 1,159 barangays. Key training programs include defensive driving for ambulance operators, high-angle rescue techniques, Incident Command System (ICS) training, ambulance operation management, basic life support, and Basic Occupational Safety and Health, among others.

The PDRRMO has partnered with the Bureau of Fire Protection and the Philippine Coast Guard, to provide comprehensive training in areas like fire suppression and water search and rescue.

It also collaborated with UNICEF for emergency preparedness and response training. To date, six batches have completed the program, with an additional session scheduled for October. Sambitory said these training modules focus on developing essential skills for disaster management and enhancing local disaster risk management (DRRM) plans to align with national and regional strategies.

The PDRRMO is likewise leveraging technology with Quantum Geographic Information System (QGIS) training designed to teach LGUs how to create hazard maps that identify areas at risk of disasters, while early warning systems, including rain gauges and tsunami alerts, are being installed in collaboration with the Ministry of Science and Technology.

“Hazard map is very important for our LGUs for them to be able to identify the areas that are prone to landslide or areas that are prone to flash floods. An early warning system also gives our LGUs and communities time to prepare before the onset of a disaster or an emergency,” Sambitory said.

Recognizing the importance of climate change awareness as a critical component in DRRM, Sambitory further underscored that all stakeholders, including schools, must be involved in these efforts. (APB/PIA-10 Lanao del Sur)

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Lanao del Sur DRRMO highlights need for preparedness as typhoon season nears

MARAWI CITY (PIA) — The Lanao del Sur Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (DRRM) Office reminded members of the Provincial DRRM Council to be vigilant and prepared as the ‘Ber’ months signal the onset of the tropical cyclone season.

During the council’s third quarter meeting on September 25, Provincial DRRM Officer Shaminoden M. Sambitory explained the weather forecast for the last quarter of the year, noting that many destructive typhoons have historically impacted Mindanao during this time, including Sendong in 2011, Pablo in 2012, Vinta in 2017 and Odette in 2021.

Sambitory stated that the province could face stronger and more destructive storms due to post-El Niño conditions, which elevated ocean temperatures. He said recent weather events have already demonstrated the potential for severe local impacts, such as the flash floods triggered by the Southwest Monsoon.

To address these concerns, the PDRRMO is implementing three-tiered preparedness measures. The first layer focuses on the provincial level, the second on the component local government units (LGUs), including the 39 municipalities and the city of Marawi, and the third layer targets the barangays or communities.

Sambitory underscored the importance of PDRRMO’s capacity-building initiatives, stating, “What we are doing is more focus on capacity-building activities because that’s what we need. We must equip or enhance the capacities of each office, agency, LGU, and barangay or community in Lanao del Sur with the necessary skills to respond effectively to emergencies.”

To support these efforts, the provincial response cluster brought together various agencies with relevant expertise. The Emergency Operations Center was established to enhance local response capabilities.

Training programs are likewise conducted to equip target individuals with essential skills such as first aid, basic life support, water search and rescue, high-angle rescue, and fire suppression, among others.

Sambitory, however, acknowledged the challenges posed by unpredictable weather patterns, which can disrupt training schedules. “When there is a weather disturbance, we have to stop the training because we have to prioritize the monitoring and response to emergencies,” he explained.

As Lanao del Sur prepares for the season, the PDRRMC also urges residents to take proactive measures to ensure their safety and well-being. (APB/PIA-10 Lanao del Sur)

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Marawi City enhances disaster preparedness, resilience

MARAWI CITY (PIA) — The city government of Marawi has implemented a comprehensive preparedness strategy to ensure the safety and well-being of its residents in the face of various threats.

“The experience during the siege and the pandemic taught us that it is crucial to be always ready for any calamity. So, we have taken several steps to strengthen disaster preparedness in Marawi City due to its vulnerability to natural and man-made disasters,” said City Mayor Majul Gandamra during his State of the City Address on August 19.

These include strengthening the local disaster risk reduction and management (LDRRM) office with additional resources and expertise to manage disaster response efforts and implementing community-based disaster preparedness programs.

The city also invested in early warning systems to provide timely alerts to residents and upgraded critical infrastructure to reduce potential damage during disasters.

Gandamra likewise highlighted the strengthened partnerships between the city DRRM office and various national government agencies, such as the national DRRM council, to ensure the alignment of strategies with national policies and guidelines.

He emphasized key achievements in disaster management, including the orientation and training of 315 barangay DRRM committees, Barangay Peacekeeping Action Teams (BPATs), and 522 students on Republic Act 10121, Basic life support, and Standard First aid.

“Capacity-building activities were held for DRRM personnel, which included training barangay chairpersons of the 101 barangays on the Incident Command System executive course. Extensive training was also provided to the DRRM Office response team on basic incident command system, water search and rescue, urban search and rescue, mental health and psychosocial support, and other essential emergency response skills,” he added.

During his State of the City Address on August 19, Marawi City Mayor Majul Gandamra emphasized the importance of readiness, citing lessons learned from the siege and the pandemic. He noted that these experiences underscored the need for strengthened disaster preparedness in Marawi City, which is susceptible to both natural and man-made disasters. (Photo: ZRD/PIA-10 Lanao del Sur)

Gandamra said these efforts have yielded positive results, as evidenced by the city’s successful management of local incidents such as soil erosion, flooding, road accidents, and fires. In recognition of its achievements, he shared that Marawi City was honored with an award in the 23rd Gawad Kalasag Seal of Excellence for Local Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council’s Offices.

“We are committed to building a safer and more resilient Marawi in the face of potential disasters,” he reiterated, emphasizing the city government’s dedication to protecting its residents. (APB/PIA-10 Lanao del Sur)

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UNICEF, EU empower Lanao del Sur communities for disaster resilience

MARAWI CITY (PIA) — UNICEF, in partnership with the European Union, is boosting the resilience of communities in Lanao del Sur through a three-year project aimed at building capacity and delivering essential services.

Sitti Vilma Quin, UNICEF Mindanao Field Office Emergency Focal and Child Protection Officer, emphasized the project’s focus on disaster preparedness and response during the Lanao del Sur Disaster Resilience Summit held on July 22-23, 2024.

“We believe that the strength of the community lies in its ability to anticipate disasters, to prepare for disasters and emergencies, to respond, and more importantly, to recover from any forms of emergencies,” she said.

Through a series of community dialogues and capacity-building activities, the project has reached over 2,500 individuals, including children, adolescents, women, and local government officials.

The project has conducted emergency preparedness and response training for 17 municipalities, with plans to reach the remaining towns of Lanao del Sur by the end of the year.

Additionally, UNICEF will work with local government units in the province to enhance and update their disaster risk reduction and management plans.

UNICEF remains committed to supporting the resiliency and building the capacity of the province in terms of delivering essential services and maintaining its capacity and strength to prepare and respond to disasters,” Quin added.  (APB/PIA-10 Lanao del Sur) 

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Lanao del Sur urged to invest in disaster risk management, education

MARAWI CITY (PIA) – The Office of Civil Defense (OCD) in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) has called on Lanao del Sur to bolster its disaster resilience through increased investments in risk management, innovation, and education.

Speaking at the Lanao del Sur Disaster Resilience Summit on July 22-23, 2024, OCD-BARMM Regional Director Joel Mamon emphasized the critical role of these factors in empowering communities for effective response and recovery during emergencies.

Mamon also underscored the importance of learning from past disasters, stating, “Disaster incidents teach us the importance of preparedness and proactive planning.”

The OCD official further pointed out the significance of collective action, emphasizing that building a resilient community requires the united efforts of everyone.

He called for a whole-of-nation approach involving civil society, the private sector, and government agencies to work together and build a culture of preparedness and safety.

“Each of us plays a vital role in strengthening our community’s preparedness and response capabilities,” Mamon added. (APB/PIA-10 Lanao del Sur)

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Lanao Sur PHO calls for collaboration to address climate change’s health impacts

MARAWI CITY (PIA) – The Provincial Health Officer (PHO) of Lanao del Sur issued a call to action on climate change, highlighting its significant impact on public health.

Dr. Princess Elham A. Sacar emphasized the urgency of collective action to mitigate climate risks and strengthen healthcare systems’ resilience against environmental threats.

She stressed the particular vulnerability of populations like the elderly, pregnant women, children, and those with chronic illnesses to the effects of climate change.

“Climate change may increase the risk and the cases of infectious diseases as well as its spread to new geographical areas, thereby causing the emergence and re-emergence of these infectious diseases,” Sacar said during the Lanao del Sur Disaster Resilience Summit on July 22.

The health officer said climate variability increases the risk of infectious diseases, with flooding and contaminated water sources contributing to the spread of waterborne illnesses like cholera and typhoid. Changing climate conditions also expand tick habitats, raising concerns about the emergence of tick-borne diseases in previously unaffected areas.

Sacar added that extreme weather events damage agricultural production and contaminate water sources, leading to malnutrition and increased waterborne illnesses.

Beyond physical health concerns, Sacar underscored the impact of climate change on mental well-being. She said that more frequent and severe weather events can cause anxiety, depression, and stress, while long-term environmental degradation and loss of livelihoods contribute to feelings of grief and hopelessness.

“The loss of homes, livelihoods, and loved ones due to climate change can cause intense grief and mourning, which can have long-lasting impacts on our mental health.  Also, climate-induced displacement and disruption of social and community support systems can exacerbate mental health issues and lead to feelings of isolation and loss of identity,” she explained.

Sacar further highlighted the strain placed on healthcare systems by climate change. According to her, extreme weather events disrupt healthcare facility operations through power outages, health infrastructure damage, and a surge in demand for services related to climate-sensitive illnesses.

“For us to be disaster resilient, we need to be health resilient,” she concluded. (APB/PIA-10 Lanao del Sur)

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Lanao del Sur champions community strength with photo, video contests

MARAWI CITY (PIA ) — In observance of the National Disaster Resilience Month and the 65th Araw ng Lanao del Sur, the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO) has launched its “Tales and Chronicles of Disaster Resilience” Photo and Video Contests.

These contests aim to showcase the impact of disasters on communities across the province while highlighting the valuable practices that have fostered resilience in overcoming these challenges.

Provincial DRRM Officer Shaminoden Sambitory underscored the significance of the contest, particularly in illuminating the efforts and initiatives undertaken by Local Government Units (LGUs) through their respective DRRM offices.

He acknowledged the existence of countless untold stories of resilience within Lanao del Sur communities, stating that the urgency of saving lives during emergencies often overshadows the remarkable acts of heroism and resourcefulness displayed by the local DRRMOs.

“Each municipality, each community, has its own tales of disaster resilience. However, some of these were not known to the public because they (local DRRMOs) are more focused on saving lives. But through these (contests), we can showcase how they are working and recognize the patriotic or heroic acts that they are doing for their communities,” Sambitory stated.

Winners will be announced during the Provincial Disaster Resilience Summit on July 22-23, 2024. They will receive public recognition and cash prizes. The top three photo contest winners will receive P20,000, P15,000, and P10,000, respectively. Similarly, the top three video contest winners will be awarded P30,000, P20,000, and P15,000, respectively. (APB/PIA-10 Lanao del Sur)

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Lanao del Sur PHO urges sanitation, awareness as La Niña approaches

 

Dr. Princess Elham Sacar, head of the Lanao del Sur Provincial Health Office, called for strengthening the role of sanitary inspectors at both the barangay and municipal levels to monitor environments and proactively identify potential health hazards. (Photo: ZRD/PIA-10 Lanao del Sur)

MARAWI CITY (PIA) –- The Lanao del Sur Provincial Health Office (PHO) is taking proactive measures to address health concerns as La Niña looms.

“We know that diarrheal diseases such as cholera, pwede magkaroon iyan ng outbreak, and vector-borne diseases such as dengue, malaria. Iyong Malaria hindi iyan masyado sa atin because the mosquito hindi naman masyado nakikita sa atin. But the dengue, hindi na iyan mawala-wala sa top list natin sa hospitals. So ‘yun iyong mga i-watch out natin. And then, of course iyong leptospirosis huwag din nating kakalimutan because of the flooding,” said PHO Head Dr. Princess Elham A. Sacar, during the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (PDRRMC) Meeting.

(We know that diarrheal diseases such as cholera can lead to outbreaks, as well as vector-borne diseases like dengue and malaria. We don’t frequently encounter the malaria mosquito here, so it’s not a major concern. However, dengue consistently ranks at the top of our hospital cases. These are the diseases we need to watch out for. Additionally, we must not forget about leptospirosis due to the flooding.)

Sacar explained that contaminated water and unsanitary environments are the breeding grounds for these diseases. Dengue mosquitoes, for instance, can lay up to 100 eggs in stagnant water, posing a significant risk.

To combat these threats, Sacar emphasized the importance of proper sanitation and water hygiene during La Niña. She called for strengthening the role of sanitary inspectors at both the barangay and municipal levels to monitor environments and proactively identify potential health hazards.

She also emphasized that Rural Health Units (RHUs) should educate and inform community members about dengue and diarrheal diseases such as cholera, and leptospirosis for early detection, management, and treatment.

“Kailangan reading-ready iyong mga RHUs natin when it comes to adequate supply of medicines at saka kung papaano i-manage iyong mga diseases na mag-iincrease during this La Niña,” she said.

(Our RHUs need to be well-equipped with an adequate supply of medicines and the capability to manage the expected rise in disease during this La Niña.)

She said RHUs should have antibiotics like doxycycline for leptospirosis and bacterial infections, as well as antiparasitics for parasite-borne illnesses. (EZMM/PIA-10 Lanao del Sur)

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Lanao Sur PDRRMO pushes long-term flood control measures

MARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur (PIA ) — The Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO) of Lanao del Sur is looking beyond just addressing the immediate impacts of potential flooding but also pushing for long-term solutions.

These solutions integrate infrastructure development, environmental management, and community-based initiatives to build long-term resilience against floods, especially during La Niña, which is expected to bring above-normal rainfall.

"Nakita natin na those areas or municipalities that are usually flooded kahit walang typhoon or kahit wala pang La Niña, kapag may continuous heavy rains, bumabaha sa mga areas na’to. So we are recommending long-term solutions,” said PDRRM Officer Shaminoden Sambitory during the second quarter meeting of the PDRRM Council on June 28.

(We have observed that certain areas or municipalities are prone to flooding even in the absence of typhoons or La Niña. These areas are particularly susceptible to flooding during periods of continuous heavy rainfall.)

The flood-prone areas identified by Sambitory were Bubong, Ditsaan-Ramain, Taraka, Tamparan, and Maguing. These areas experienced flooding in June due to heavy rains brought by Habagat and Easterlies. The flooding affected thousands of households and serves as a reminder of the need for long-term measures.

He reported that Habagat’s heavy rains affected 57 barangays, home to 3,185 households. This includes 16 barangays in Bubong, five in Ditsaan-Ramain, 31 in Taraka, and five in Tamparan. On the other hand, continuous heavy rains from easterlies caused flooding in 76 barangays, affecting 4,354 households. These barangays are located in Bubong (15), Ditsaan-Ramain (5), Taraka (42), Tamparan (5), and Maguing (9).

Sambitory explained that these municipalities are the “basak” areas of the province, where rice farming is the primary source of income. These low-lying areas act as natural catch basins, and when heavy rains occur upstream, particularly near the Bukidnon border, floodwaters flow down and inundate these agricultural areas, disrupting livelihoods and causing widespread damage.

Among the measures proposed to address flooding are solid waste management, improved drainage, dredging of waterways, construction of river walls, and resettlement of communities living near waterways.

Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Officer Shaminoden Sambitory called for long-term solutions to mitigate the impacts of La Niña. These solutions include improved solid waste management, resettlement of communities residing near waterways, provision of search and rescue equipment, implementation of flood forecasting and early warning systems, improvement of urban drainage, declogging of canals, dredging of waterways, promotion of tree growing, and construction of river walls. (Photo: ZRD/PIA-10 Lanao del Sur)

The PDRRM officer also stressed the importance of enhanced flood forecasting and early warning systems, as these will provide information to local government units (LGUs) and communities, allowing them to take preventative measures and minimize damage.

In reality, here in our province, especially in the Basak area, almost all establishments and houses are built alongside the water system. So the problem is, if the river system overflows, automatically these establishments or these houses will be affected,” he said.

The promotion of tree planting, the provision of search and rescue equipment, and public awareness campaigns on flood risks and preparedness measures are likewise considered by PDRRMO as crucial in minimizing the impact of floods on lives and property.

Focusing on health risks associated with La Niña

The Provincial Health Office (PHO) is also raising awareness about the health risks associated with La Niña.

PHO head Dr. Princess Elham Sacar said dengue, diarrhea, and leptospirosis are common health concerns during the rainy season.

As such, she emphasized the need for LGUs to designate sanitary inspectors and strengthen their roles in ensuring community cleanliness. She stressed that improved sanitation measures prevent the spread of waterborne and vector-borne diseases and protect public health (APB/PIA-10 Lanao del Sur)

The Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council of Lanao del Sur convened its second quarter meeting and discussed the current weather conditions and preparations for the La Niña phenomenon. The meeting also focused on enhancing coordination among agencies during emergencies, emphasizing clear leadership and designated responsibilities. Moreover, the meeting approved several motions to strengthen disaster preparedness and response efforts. (Photo: ZRD/PIA-10 Lanao del Sur)

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Lanao del Sur to showcase disaster resilience in a summit

MARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur (PIA) — Lanao del Sur is set to celebrate its resilience in the face of adversity with a two-day disaster resilience summit scheduled for July 22–23 at the Provincial Capitol Gymnasium here.

This marks the province’s first gathering of Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (DRRM) actors since 2019 and aims to showcase the gains made by the province and its local government units (LGUs) in building disaster resilience.

Themed “Resilience in the Face of Challenges Brought by Previous Emergencies and Disasters: The Lanao del Sur Experience,” the summit will serve as a platform to share best practices and learnings from various challenges the province has overcome, including the Marawi Siege, the COVID-19 pandemic, manmade disasters, and numerous natural disasters.

We’ve faced significant challenges in recent years, but these experiences have also fostered a strong sense of resilience within our communities,” said PDRRM Officer Shaminoden Sambitory.

He said the summit is an opportunity to showcase the progress made by local DRRM practitioners and LGUs, and how they’ve become better prepared to respond to future emergencies. “Despite those challenges, nandito pa rin tayo, matibay pa rin tayo. So mas maganda na i-showcase natin those experiences on how we manage those emergencies and disasters,” he added.

(Despite those challenges, we are still here, we are still strong. Therefore, it is even more important to showcase our experiences in managing these emergencies and disasters.)

The provincial government of Lanao del Sur is set to hold its Provincial Disaster Resilience Summit on July 22–23, coinciding with both the National Disaster Resilience Month and the province’s 65th anniversary. PDRRM Officer Shaminoden Sambitory announced this initiative during the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council’s second quarter meeting on June 28, 2024. He emphasized that the summit will showcase Lanao del Sur’s efforts in enhancing resilience for the future. (Photo: ZRD/PIA-10/Lanao del Sur)

The two-day summit will feature several highlights designed to showcase Lanao del Sur’s experience with DRRM and Climate Change Adaptation (CCA). On July 22, a motorcade featuring rescue vehicles and emergency ambulances from participating LGUs will demonstrate the strengthened capabilities of their disaster response teams.

This will be followed by a program and a talk show on DRRM and CCA, as well as, “Tales of Resilience” contests, where a photo gallery will showcase real-world DRRM activities undertaken by LGUs. A video contest, on the other hand, will offer another avenue for them to share their best practices by documenting their experiences during past emergencies or disasters.

The second day will be designated as “Araw ng Parangal” (Day of Recognition), where an awards ceremony will celebrate the efforts and initiatives of DRRM-CCA actors who have significantly contributed to the province’s overall resilience.

The summit is part of National Disaster Resilience Month and Lanao del Sur’s 65th-anniversary celebration. (APB/PIA-10/Lanao del Sur)

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Lanao Sur tightens ruminant monitoring before dispersal

MARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur (PIA) — The Lanao del Sur Provincial Veterinary Office (PVO) is implementing strict monitoring and pre-dispersal testing to safeguard animal health and prevent the spread of Q-fever within the province.

The move is in response to the country’s recent detection of zoonotic disease.

Q-fever is a mild illness that primarily affects ruminants like goats, sheep, and cows. The bacteria responsible, Coxiella burnetii, can be transmitted to humans through contact with infected animals or their birthing fluids.

Ayaw natin na mangyari ‘yan dito sa Lanao del Sur. So kung pwede kapag may dispersal na mangyari dito sana ma-inform niyo kami para ma-monitor namin at ma-test,” said Dr. Liza Ebuña, a veterinarian from the PVO.

 

(We want to prevent this from happening in Lanao del Sur. We encourage those planning dispersal activities to inform us beforehand so we can properly monitor and test the animals.)

Ebuña emphasized, during the recent Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (PDRRMC), the importance of strict monitoring and surveillance procedures before any ruminants are transported or sold.

“Ang quarantine station is not yet operational. So, the best course of action is testing, and if it is positive, we are going to depopulate the positive animals and thoroughly disinfect the affected area to prevent further spread,” she added. (APB/PIA-10/Lanao del Sur)

Dr. Liza Ebuña, a veterinarian from the Lanao del Sur Provincial Veterinary Office, stressed the importance of strict monitoring and surveillance of goats and cows before dispersal to avoid the spread of Q-fever infection in the province. (Photo: ZRD/PIA-10/Lanao del Sur)

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DICT’s free wifi enhances local disaster mgmt

MARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur (PIA) — The local government units (LGUs) and other government institutions across the city can now rely on dependable internet access through the free WiFi initiative of the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), enabling faster and more effective communication during critical times.

“We have mostly installed the Starlink connection, free WiFi sa mga LGUs natin (free WiFi for our LGUs),” said Bukhari Maunda, the Project Procurement Management Officer of DICT-Lanao del Sur, during the second quarter meeting of the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (PDRRMC) Meeting on June 28.

“So, if meron man incident, walang reason na we cannot communicate (if there’s an incident, there’s no reason we can’t communicate),” he said, highlighting the importance of reliable internet during emergencies.

According to Maunda, locations now benefiting from the free WiFi initiative include the Marawi City Hall Complex, Provincial Capitol Complex, Lanao del Sur Electric Cooperative, and educational institutions like APCES (Amai Pakpak Central Elementary School), Marawi City National High School, UTC (MSU-University Training Center), and LNCAT (Lanao National College of Arts and Trades).

Beyond improved communication to boost disaster response, the DICT is also promoting the eGov PH application, which aims to digitize and streamline national and local government services.”

Maunda said this application enables convenient access to essential government services such as business registration, barangay clearance, and building permit applications, among others.

“Lahat ng services ng ating mga line agencies na nagkaroon ng integration dito sa ating system. Once their frontline services are integrated dito sa system natin na tinatawag na eGov PH application, pwede na silang ma-access in just one application, which is the Super eGov PH,” he added.

(All the services of our line agencies that have been integrated into our system. Once their frontline services are integrated into the system, these services can all be accessed in just one application, the Super eGov PH.) (ABR/PIA-10/Lanao del Sur)

Bukhari Maunda, the Project Procurement Management Officer at the DICT Provincial Office, emphasized during the second quarter PDRRMC meeting the deployment of Starlink connections, which provide free WiFi to LGUs. This, he said, ensures that LGUs have access to free internet, enabling seamless dissemination of information in any scenario. (Photo: ZRD/PIA-10 Lanao del Sur)

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50 Marawi students gain skills on disaster preparedness

MARAWI CITY (PIA) -- Around 50 students from five schools here are now equipped with essential disaster risk and reduction management (DRRM) skills, preparing them to effectively respond to potential hazards.

"I'm happy because I learned a lot, especially during the fire drill. I was a bit nervous at first, but when I put on the fire gear, I got excited. It felt satisfying to put out the fire because it's also my dream to become a firefighter," shared pupil Ashary Salic after completing a two-day DRR skills training. 

The activity was spearheaded by World Vision in partnership with the City Schools Division of Marawi City, the Philippine Red Cross (Marawi Chapter), the Marawi City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO), and the Bureau of Fire Protection-Marawi City, under the Urban Child Protection and Participation Project, 

Adonis Casinillo, World Vision project manager, said empowering children with DRR skills is vital in ensuring their safety and resilience during emergencies. 

"Teaching children fire safety is not only timely because of the high heat index we are experiencing but is also a life skill. As an organization, we commit to promoting child participation in disaster preparedness to build their resilience and ensure their well-being in times of emergencies," Casinillo said.

The Urban Child Protection and Participation Project has equipped around 50 students across five schools with crucial disaster risk and reduction management (DRRM) skills, enabling them to respond effectively to potential hazards. This effort was led by World Vision in partnership with the City Schools Division of Marawi City, the Philippine Red Cross (Marawi Chapter), the Marawi City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office, and the Bureau of Fire Protection-Marawi City as part of the Urban Child Protection and Participation Project. (Photo courtesy of World Vision)

Aira Abedin, a 14-year-old Grade 5 pupil, echoed the same sentiment, highlighting the necessity of DRR skills for self-reliance in emergencies. "It is important to learn these disaster risk reduction (DRR) skills because if we don't, how will we save our lives?" Aira questioned. 

"So, it is really necessary for us to know and understand disaster risk and reduction management.  I'm thankful to World Vision because if it weren't for them, I wouldn't know this," she added.

The training covered the basics of DRRM as well as basic life support techniques for earthquakes, fires, and other emergencies.

Participants in the training included students, teachers, and DRR coordinators from Abdul Azis Elementary School, Cadayonan Elementary School, Hadji Hassan Elementary School, Sikap Elementary School, and Tuca-Boganga Elementary School.

In previous years, World Vision provided the five schools with essential DRR equipment and devices, such as tents, alarm systems, fire extinguishers, spine boards, first-aid kits, pairs of boots, portable radios, two-way radios, DRR ropes, and whistles. These resources aim to ensure learning continuity and create safer environments for learners. (APB, PIA Region 10-Lanao del Sur, with reports from World Vision)

Students from five schools in Marawi City are taught basic life support techniques for earthquakes, fires, and other emergencies during the DRRM training conducted by World Vision in partnership with the City Schools Division of Marawi City, the Philippine Red Cross (Marawi Chapter), the Marawi City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office, and the Bureau of Fire Protection-Marawi City, as part of the Urban Child Protection and Participation Project. (Photo courtesy of World Vision)

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223 responders in Lanao Sur complete EMT-ERT course

Graduates of the Emergency Medical Technician Course and Emergency Response Training (EMT-ERT) conducted by the provincial government of Lanao del Sur in partnership with Rescue Recon-Philippines show their excitement during the EMT-ERT Culmination Program attended by DILG Sec. Benjamin "Benhur" Abalos Jr. (Jason Casas/PIA-10/Lanao del Sur)

MARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur (PIA)--A total of 223 responders here in the province completed the Emergency Medical Technician Course and Emergency Response Training (EMT-ERT) conducted by the provincial government of Lanao del Sur in partnership with Rescue Recon-Philippines.

The trainees consisted of personnel from the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO) and Local DRRMOs of the 39 municipalities in the province including emergency responders from line agencies and uniformed personnel

The training is one of the disaster preparedness efforts of the PDRRMO to capacitate its personnel and emergency responders from component LGUs and members of the PDRRM Council's Emergency or Disaster Cluster. 

The 15-day EMT-ERT was conducted in three batches from November 1 to December 15, 2022.

"Kami ay lubos na nagpapasalamt sa ating mga trainees, sa mga LCE at provincial government kasi namaterialize natin itong training na ito at nainvolve natin yung vital stakeholders sa Lanao del Sur," said PDRRMO head Shaminoden Sambitory.

[We are very grateful to our trainees, the LCEs, and the provincial government because we have materialized this training and we have involved the vital stakeholders in Lanao del Sur.] (APB/PIA-10/Lanao del Sur)

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Lanao del Sur PLGU capacitates first responders on emergency response

Emergency responders demonstrate water rescue skills during the 15-day Emergency Medical Technician and Emergency Response Training initiated by the provincial government of Lanao del Sur in partnership with Rescue Recon Philippines. (PIA Lanao del Sur)

MARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur (PIA)--The Provincial Government of Lanao del Sur has partnered with the Rescue Recon-Philippines for the conduct of a 15-day Emergency Medical Technician and Emergency Response Training (EMT-ERT) to capacitate the province's first disaster responders.

A total of 223 individuals from the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO), Municipal DRRMOs, and line agencies completed the training conducted in three batches from November 1 to December 15, 2022.

Provincial Vice Governor Mohammad Khalid Rakiin Adiong said one of the weaknesses that they have seen is the lack of training for responders which is why they initiated the EMT-ERT.

"Isang opportunity na hindi natin ipinagsawalang bahala lalo pa na ang nagbigay ng intensive training na ito ay subok na sa larangan emergency response at higit kilala sa maraming parte ng mundo - ang Rescue Recon," he said emphasizing that every disaster requires specific response skills.

[An opportunity that we did not take for granted especially since the intensive training was given by Rescue Recon which has been tested in the field of emergency response and is known in many parts of the world.]

The vice governor said the EMT-ERT is one of the provincial government's initiatives to further boost their DRRM efforts.

For his part, Governor Mamintal Alonto Adiong Jr. said the training was the result of their desire to prepare the response teams of each local government unit in the province to appropriately respond to disasters and calamities.

He said it also serves as an encouragement for local chief executives of the province to strengthen their DRRM programs and fulfill their mandate as stated in Republic Act 10121 or the Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Act of 2010.

The governor said the success of the efforts of the provincial government can only be measured if the LGUs will continue and complement these until all the constituents in Lanao del Sur are secure and can safely face calamities. (APB/PIA-10/Lanao del Sur)

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