Cotabato city: The Bangsamoro government, with support from the Korean government through the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) and United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF), has launched the region's inaugural Bangsamoro Disaster Response Plan (BDRP). The initiative aims to bolster the region's ability to prepare for, respond to, and recover from disasters, focusing on safeguarding 1.7 million children and their families in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).
According to Philippines News Agency, Chief Minister Abdulraof Macacua spearheaded the launch, underscoring the government's dedication to resilience and moral governance. During his speech, Macacua emphasized the BDRP as a shared commitment to protecting life and property, upholding dignity, and enhancing resilience against disasters and adversity.
Developed by the Ministry of Social Services and Development, Bangsamoro Rapid Emergency Action on Disaster Incidence, and other members of the Bangsamoro Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council, the plan identifies flooding and rain-induced landslides as the region's most frequent and damaging hazards. Notably, in 2022, Severe Tropical Storm Paeng resulted in 63 fatalities and over PHP3.5 billion in damages. In July 2024, flash floods impacted more than 187,000 families.
The BDRP provides a framework for local governments to lead emergency responses, utilize their resources, and seek assistance from national agencies, nearby local government units, or partners when necessary. KOICA Country Director Jung Youngsun highlighted that the plan extends beyond disaster response, emphasizing saving lives, protecting children, and fortifying communities against future disasters.
UNICEF acting Representative Behzad Noubary noted that the plan aims to mitigate the impact of emergencies on children. He stated, "Children are especially vulnerable to climate and environmental shocks. This plan will not only reduce the impact of emergencies on children and their families but also empower them to participate in the response."
The BDRP was crafted through consultations with BARMM ministries, local governments, civil society organizations, and humanitarian partners.
