NLEX Corporation has launched a new program called Barangay Responders and Advocates of Violence-free Environment (BRAVE) to equip young women with the skills to become disaster and emergency responders in their communities.
The program aims to harness the unique qualities of women – adaptability, sensitivity, and compassion – to effectively manage crisis situations.
“Ang mga kababaihan ay may unique qualities na angkop para sa tungkulin bilang community responders – sila ay highly adaptable, sensitive, at compassionate. Ito ang mga dahilan kung bakit namin binuo ang isang programang magbibigay oportunidad sa mga kabataang babae na manguna o makatulong sa kanilang barangay sa pag-manage ng sitwasyon sa tuwing may disaster or emergency,” , J. Luigi L. Bautista, NLEX president and general manager said.
Twenty-five participants fromNLEX Connector host communities underwent a three-day training camp in San Fernando, Pampanga.
The intensive training covered Barangay Disaster Risk Reduction Management (BDRRM), emergency first aid, and self-affirmation exercises, conducted in partnership with the Girl Scouts of the Philippines Manila Council.
Renowned jiu-jitsu champion Meggie Ochoa shared her expertise, teaching the participants basic self-defense techniques and inspiring them to be advocates for a violence-free environment.
“Programs like this will help them to be more equipped and ready to respond and act in emergencies,” Ochoa said.
“All these activities aim to prepare young women to be physically, mentally, and emotionally fit for their new role as emergency responders. They were equipped with new knowledge and skills and taught the importance of preparedness, resiliency, and standing up against violence,” she added.
Since 2005, NLEX has been at the forefront of corporate social responsibility initiatives as part of their contribution to nation-building. The company also launched two capacity-building programs this year:
Pag-unlad at Paglago ng Pamayanan (PUNLA), a comprehensive training program for women-led small businesses, and Barangay Security Watch, an in-depth seminar designed to capacitate barangay police and officials with knowledge and skills in maintaining peace and order in their community.
