The National Economic and Development Authority Regional Office VI conducted an orientation on Emergency Management and Incident Command System among officials and staff last July 15, 2021 via zoom platform.  This strengthens the Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) awareness of the staff and the roles and responsibilities of each team during disaster.

The invited guest speaker Engr. Joseph Paul L. Nogra, Civil Defense Officer III discussed the DRRM Network based on the Philippine Risk Reduction Act of 2010 (RA 10121). He also highlighted the development of capacities in disaster management at the individual, organizational, and institutional levels. A very important feature of this law is the call for the mainstreaming of disaster risk reduction in physical, budget, infrastructure, education, health, environment, housing, and other sectors.

 Mr. Nogra, in his discussion, highlighted the various challenges in the “New Normal” and the efforts that the NDRRMC is doing to address these challenges. Some of which are migration to blended learning (a mix of face-to-face learning and online learning), conduct of DRRM webinars and advocacies, response efforts, provision of PPE and test kits, logistics, and donations. Updating and innovation of DRRM Policies and Guidelines suited for the “New Normal” was also discussed.

The second part of the orientation discussed Organizing Disaster Control Group (DCG) using Incident Command System (ICS). It described the overview of both the DCG and the ICS, as well as identify the composition of the Disaster Control Group. This will guide the office to develop a comprehensive knowledge and understanding of the duties, responsibilities and capabilities of an effective Incident Commander and the Command Staff. (FAD/LALaurente)