Manila: The Office of Civil Defense (OCD) attributed the high approval rating of the Marcos administration on disaster response and management to the implementation of a holistic approach to the issue. A recent Pulse Asia survey, conducted from March 23 to 29 this year, showed the Marcos administration's efforts to respond to the needs of calamity-affected areas received a 51 percent approval rating.
According to Philippines News Agency, the OCD administrator Undersecretary Ariel Nepomuceno expressed gratitude for the recognition from the Filipino people, highlighting the directive from President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. to employ a whole-of-government approach in disaster response. This strategy ensures that the needs of those affected by disasters and calamities are addressed promptly.
The OCD chief also noted that President Marcos has instructed that aid should be delivered efficiently, likening the process to a "conveyor belt of aid." This involves seamless coordination with local government units and the swift deployment of assistance programs across affected regions. Nepomuceno emphasized the effectiveness of involving civil society and private sectors in disaster management and resilience efforts, citing recent calamities, including six typhoons last year and potential eruptions of Mount Kanlaon.
The acknowledgment by the Filipino people is a testament to the relentless efforts of the 46 member agencies of the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC), led by Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. The NDRRMC operates under four key pillars, with lead agencies focusing on prevention, preparedness, response, and recovery.
Serving as the secretariat of the council, the OCD has been pivotal in coordinating among agencies, ensuring efficient logistics and timely delivery of aid to affected communities, alongside strategic risk communications.
Nepomuceno stressed that the survey results serve as both inspiration and a reminder to enhance efforts, especially given the increasing severity of disasters due to climate change. He reiterated the commitment to advancing disaster preparedness to mitigate risks and prevent loss of lives and livelihoods.
