In light of the devastation caused by Typhoon Pepito and previous storms, key officials from the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) and Office of Civil Defense (OCD), convened to discuss strategies for delivering essential goods to affected communities.
One primary focus of the meeting was addressing logistical challenges in transporting relief supplies.
Two transport strategies were proposed: land and sea transport utilizing 82 trucks and roll-on/roll-off (RORO) vessels, as well as air transport through C-130 and C-295 aircraft, along with S-70i Black Hawk helicopters.
These methods aim to expedite aid delivery to even the most inaccessible areas, ensuring that critical needs are met promptly.
A significant aspect of the meeting involved the transition of responsibilities within the NDRRMC. OCD Director Agnes Palacio announced plans to temporarily deactivate the Incident Command Center (IACC), with the intention of reactivating it when necessary.
She emphasized the importance of transitioning leadership to the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), which will head the response cluster.
In assessing the disasters’ impacts, OCD Assistant Secretary Cesar Idio highlighted the importance of understanding the full extent of the damage.
This assessment includes evaluating property loss, infrastructure conditions, and the state of evacuation centers. Beyond physical destruction, he stressed the need to address the broader humanitarian situation, ensuring effective aid delivery while maintaining public safety.
Preemptive evacuations and early warnings played a critical role in minimizing casualties, demonstrating the effectiveness of proactive measures in disaster management.
Immediate relief efforts have been prioritized, particularly regarding the distribution of shelter repair kits and construction materials.
These resources are essential for displaced families to rebuild their homes, allowing schools—many currently serving as evacuation centers—to reopen and resume normal operations.
Furthermore, providing hygiene kits, clean drinking water, and access to charging stations highlights the government’s focus on public health and restoring basic utilities in affected areas.
The meeting also provided an update on regional conditions. In Region V, 11 out of 16 municipalities in Catanduanes remain severely impacted, with thousands of residents still in evacuation centers. Similarly, in Region II, Cagayan is grappling with widespread flooding that has forced over 4,472 families into temporary shelters.
“A safe community is a prepared community. Every second counts in our efforts to confront the threats we face.” His call for unity and preparedness underscores the need for coordinated action to build resilience and safeguard lives in the face of natural calamities,” Asec. Idio emphasized.
