Senator Joel Villanueva exhorted concerned government agencies to strengthen disaster preparedness and ensure the timely delivery of assistance to affected communities as the typhoon season starts.
The senator stressed that government agencies must remain prepared before disasters strike by prepositioning relief goods, ensuring the readiness of evacuation centers, and enhancing coordination with local government units and other response agencies.
“As climate-related disasters become more frequent and severe, we must prioritize preparedness, swift response, and coordinated action to safeguard our people and build more resilient communities,” Villanueva said.
In 2024, Villanueva pushed for the funding of mobile command centers to boost the capabilities of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) to respond to disasters and calamities.
Through the senator’s initiative, the DSWD was also able to procure mobile kitchen units the following year to serve hot, home-cooked meals to displaced families during typhoons and other disasters.
Villanueva also authored Senate Bill No. 551 or the Hazard Mapping Act last year to have a comprehensive list of low-lying areas vulnerable to rising sea levels as a result of climate change and areas at high risk for natural disasters.
The measure mandates relevant agencies to produce high resolution hazard maps that are accurate, updated and accessible to the public.
“The absence of reliable risk information weakens the ability of communities and local governments to properly prepare for and respond to disasters, plan safe settlements and enforce zoning laws,” Villanueva said.
The senator also called on agencies to continuously review their contingency plans, improve early warning and communication systems, and ensure the availability of resources needed for emergency operations.
“With the increasing risks brought by extreme weather events, we must remain ready and responsive,” Villanueva said.
