The City Government of Malaybalay, in collaboration with the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (DRRM) Council, successfully concluded the National Disaster Resilience Month with a Kapihan media forum held at the Peoples’ Hall, City Hall, on July 28, 2023

City Administrator Anna Marie R. Bergado warmly welcomed the attendees, highlighting the importance of collective efforts and resilience during calamities. She emphasized that such challenging times are moments when people turn to a higher power for strength and guidance, and she expressed her confidence in the collaborative efforts among stakeholders to implement effective disaster risk reduction and management action plans.

City Administrator Bergado expressed gratitude to the media for their pivotal role in disseminating critical information to the public, educating them about potential risks, and rallying efficient and effective responses from both the government and other stakeholders.

Bearing the theme, “Building a Stronger Filipino Well-being towards Disaster Resilience,” the event brought together media personalities from across the province to discuss and showcase the accomplishments and plans of the DRRM thematic areas. The focus areas included disaster preparedness, response and early recovery, prevention, mitigation, and recovery and rehabilitation.

A comprehensive report was also tackled on the recent flooding incident that affected 13 barangays. The incident led to the declaration of a State of Calamity in the city, which enabled the swift coordination between various response clusters and agencies to address the immediate needs of the affected communities.

In his message, Exec. Asst. John Valmores, representing City Mayor Jay Warren R. Pabillaran, underscored the significance of unity during times of disaster. He acknowledged the government’s preparedness and the crucial role played by communities in disaster resilience. Valmores also expressed his gratitude to the media for their invaluable contributions to disaster plans and programs.

The culminating activity also featured an open forum, where media representatives raised various issues and concerns addressed and clarified by the panelists.

As National Disaster Resilience Month came to a close, the City Government of Malaybalay affirmed its commitment to enhancing disaster preparedness and response measures for the safety and well-being of its citizens. (LGU Malaybalay)