Manila: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has signed into law Republic Act No. 12287, which institutionalizes the declaration of a 'State of Imminent Disaster' to enable the government to implement anticipatory actions before a calamity occurs. This new legislation was signed on September 12 and made public on Tuesday, allowing for preemptive measures in response to potential disasters.

According to Philippines News Agency, the President can declare a State of Imminent Disaster over various levels of local government units upon the recommendation of the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC). Local chief executives are also empowered to make similar declarations within their jurisdictions, following advice from regional DRRM Councils. The declaration will be based on a pre-disaster risk assessment indicating highly probable hazards with severe projected impacts, providing a lead time of at least three days - extendable to five days - for authorities to prepare.

Once such a declaration is made, national and local governments can undertake anticipatory measures, including issuing public advisories, prepositioning relief items, mobilizing response teams and volunteers, conducting pre-emptive evacuations, and ensuring social protection for vulnerable sectors. The law also includes provisions to protect agriculture, food supply, public health, and safety.

If subsequent risk assessments indicate that the anticipated impacts will not occur, the NDRRMC or local DRRM councils are instructed to recommend the immediate lifting of the declaration. Additionally, RA 12287 mandates local government units to incorporate anticipatory measures into their local DRRM plans and funds. The NDRRMC is required to issue implementing rules and guidelines within 60 days of the law's enactment.

The Philippines is recognized as one of the world's most disaster-prone countries, facing an average of 20 tropical cyclones annually, alongside risks from earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and floods.