1st Quarter SPDRRMC Regular Full Council Meeting
The Sorsogon Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (SPDRRMC) convened for its 1st Quarter Regular Full Council Meeting on February 13, 2024, at the People’s Mansion Function Hall. The gathering, presided over by Provincial Administrator Franco Eric O. Ravanilla and co-chaired by Board Member Eduardo E. Ong Jr., Chairman on Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR), brought together a diverse array of stakeholders committed to bolstering disaster preparedness and response efforts in Sorsogon Province.
The session commenced with a thorough review and subsequent approval of the minutes from the previous council meeting. This ensured continuity and accuracy in decision-making processes, fostering transparency and accountability within the council.
Representatives from the Department of Science and Technology – Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (DOST-PAGASA) and the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) delivered vital updates on weather patterns, forecasts, and the status of Bulusan Volcano. These updates provided essential insights into potential risks and hazards, enabling the council to formulate informed strategies for disaster preparedness and response.
Given the significance of Bulusan Volcano as a potential hazard, members were briefed on the latest preparedness measures in place. Continuous monitoring and readiness initiatives were underscored as pivotal components of risk mitigation efforts.
Transparency and accountability were prioritized as the council reviewed the utilization report of the Local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Fund (LDRRMF) for the fiscal year 2023. This detailed examination assessed the allocation and utilization of resources towards disaster risk reduction and management initiatives, facilitating informed decision-making and strategic planning for future allocations.
A comprehensive calendar of activities for capability development was presented, encompassing a wide range of training programs, workshops, and drills aimed at enhancing the readiness and resilience of stakeholders. These initiatives focused on building technical expertise, fostering coordination among response teams, and strengthening community engagement in disaster preparedness efforts.
The proposals for the allocation of unexpended funds from the previous fiscal year were deliberated upon, with a focus on prioritizing initiatives that would further bolster disaster preparedness infrastructure. Discussions centered around investing in critical areas such as early warning systems, infrastructure retrofitting, capacity-building programs, and community-based disaster risk reduction initiatives.
Updates on the ongoing renovations of the SPDRRMC Emergency Operations Center (EOC) were provided, highlighting progress made and addressing any challenges encountered during the process. The renovations aimed to enhance the functionality and resilience of the EOC, ensuring seamless coordination and communication during emergency response operations.
The meeting provided an opportunity to introduce newly assigned or appointed individuals within the SPDRRMC, fostering inclusivity, collaboration, and knowledge sharing. This introduction facilitated the integration of new members into the council’s activities and initiatives, strengthening the collective capacity to address disaster risks and challenges effectively.
The 1st Quarter SPDRRMC Regular Full Council Meeting served as a pivotal platform for collaborative engagement, informed decision-making, and strategic planning to enhance disaster resilience within Sorsogon Province. Through robust discussions, the council reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding lives, livelihoods, and infrastructure against the impacts of natural and man-made disasters. Moving forward, the council remains dedicated to implementing innovative strategies, fostering partnerships, and empowering communities to build a more resilient and sustainable future for all residents of Sorsogon.
