CALAMBA CITY, Laguna (PIA) — The Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (RDRRMC) Calabarzon is urging local government units (LGUs) to reinforce contingency measures and ensure critical resources are ready for communities as El Niño intensifies.
RDRRMC Chairperson and Office of Civil Defense (OCD) Calabarzon Regional Director Carlos Eduardo Alvarez said LGUs play a critical role in identifying community needs and ensuring that appropriate interventions are in place as conditions evolve.
“LGUs remain vital in identifying local needs, mobilizing available resources, and implementing timely interventions to minimize the impacts of El Niño,” Alvarez said.
He encouraged LGUs to activate and strengthen their El Niño Task Forces, review and update their contingency plans, and ensure the availability of critical resources and appropriate response measures.
“LGUs have already established El Niño Task Forces to lead and coordinate local actions. They have also been reminded to regularly assess their preparedness plans and adjust interventions based on emerging risks and identified needs,” Alvarez said.
At the national level, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. is leading government efforts to prepare for and address the potential impacts of Super El Niño, with concerned agencies directed to strengthen measures against water shortages and severe drought.
According to Malacañang, the government is also allocating funds for El Niño response, particularly for climate information, agriculture and food, irrigation, water supply, and social protection.
Alvarez also emphasized the need for close coordination among LGUs, concerned government agencies, and other stakeholders to ensure timely and effective interventions, particularly in addressing gaps in water supply, agricultural support, and public information.
He said localized preparedness is important as the needs and available resources vary among LGUs, requiring interventions tailored to the conditions and vulnerabilities of each community.
Meanwhile, the RDRRMC urged households and communities to conserve water and use it responsibly, particularly as water availability may be affected by El Niño.
The public is also encouraged to limit prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, stay hydrated, and take necessary precautions against heat-related illnesses.
The council called on everyone to remain vigilant and actively participate in efforts to reduce the impacts of El Niño as the region prepares for potentially worsening conditions. (FC, PIA4A)
