TUGUEGARAO CITY, Cagayan — The Department of the Interior and Local Government, as Vice Chair for Disaster Preparedness Cluster, successfully conducted its CVDRRMC 2nd Quarter Calendar Year 2025 Disaster Preparedness Pillar Meeting on May 23, 2025, at the NGN Gran Hotel in Tuguegarao City. Representing the Vice Chair for Disaster Preparedness RD Agnes A. De Leon, CESO IV, the meeting chaired by Assistant Regional Director Elpidio M. Durwin brought together key representatives from member agencies to assess current preparedness efforts, share updates, and strengthen coordination ahead of the anticipated La Niña season.
The meeting opened with a Weather Update and Climate Outlook from the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA), providing critical information on the expected weather and climate conditions in the region over the coming months.
This was followed by the DILG’s presentation of the 2024 Seal of Good Local Governance (SGLG) Governance Assessment Results (GAR) focusing on disaster preparedness. The assessment highlighted the performance of local government units across Region 2 in terms of readiness and compliance with national DRRM standards.
In preparation for the rainy season, concerned member agencies discussed their La Niña Preparedness Actions and Measures, emphasizing proactive steps to mitigate potential impacts. The presentations covered flood control strategies, early warning dissemination, and community-based response planning.
The council also tackled the Capacity Building and Training Programs, Projects, and Activities (PPAs) of various member agencies for CY 2025. These initiatives aim to enhance disaster preparedness capabilities at all levels, particularly among local government units and first responders.
A key item on the agenda was the Office of Civil Defense's (OCD) briefing on the Third Quarter Nationwide Simultaneous Earthquake Drill (NSED), which aims to ensure sustained public awareness and preparedness for seismic events.
Rounding off the meeting was the proposal for the formulation of Oplan LISTO protocols for high temperature, in response to the growing threat of extreme heat events. The proposal aims to establish clear, localized guidelines and preventive measures to address health and safety risks associated with rising temperatures brought about by climate change.
The meeting concluded with a firm commitment from the CVDRRMC member agencies to continue enhancing collaboration and delivering coordinated, timely, and effective disaster preparedness actions across the Cagayan Valley region.
LGOO IV Jed Amante B. Apada
