Baler: The Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO) of Aurora opened on Monday a five-day Contingency Planning Training of Trainers, a program aimed at strengthening disaster preparedness and response. The opening ceremony, held at the PDRRMO Emergency Operations Center in Barangay Suklayin, Baler, was attended by 36 participants from the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (PDRRMC) and the provincial government.
According to Philippines News Agency, in his welcome remarks, PDRRMC officer Elson Amado Egargue underscored the importance of the training as a crucial step toward enhancing the province's readiness. Egargue highlighted that the training equips participants with the necessary knowledge and skills to develop effective response plans for various hazards. He noted that it also serves as a platform for sharing experiences and strengthening cooperation for more resilient communities.
Egargue emphasized the importance of disseminating the lessons learned during the training to local communities to boost the province's disaster preparedness further. Meanwhile, Provincial Youth Development Officer Benjamin Vidal Jr. delivered a message on behalf of Governor Reynante Tolentino, expressing the provincial government's full support for the initiative. Vidal stressed that the level of preparedness will significantly impact the speed and effectiveness of response during disasters.
Vidal also highlighted that disaster preparedness is a collective responsibility, involving the community, provincial authorities, national agencies, and every citizen. The training aims to empower future trainers with the knowledge and skills necessary to guide communities in planning, preparing, and responding to emergencies.