Angeles City has been recognized as the 3rd most disaster-resilient local government unit (LGU) in Pampanga, according to the Disaster Resilience and Enhanced Adaptation and Mitigation (DREAM) Markers assessment conducted by the Pampanga Provincial Risk Reduction and Management Council (PDRRMO). This achievement highlights the city’s strong commitment to disaster risk management and preparedness.
The award was presented to Mayor Carmelo “Pogi” Lazatin Jr. and Rodolfo Simeon, the city’s Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Officer (DRRMO), by Pampanga Governor Dennis “Delta” Pineda and PDRRMO head Angie Blanco. The ceremony took place on December 6, 2024, at the Kingsborough International Convention Center in San Fernando City.
Mabalacat City claimed the top spot in the assessment, while the City of San Fernando secured second place. The DREAM assessment aimed to gauge the disaster resilience of LGUs by examining their disaster risk management (DRM) frameworks and the best practices they have implemented for adaptation and mitigation. It used Disaster Resilience Markers and Enhanced Adaptation and Mitigation Markers as evaluation tools.
Mayor Lazatin lauded the efforts of the Angeles City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (ACDRRMO) for their proactive and dedicated work. “The ACDRRMO, led by Rudy Simeon, shows unparalleled dedication and hard work, ensuring that our city is always prepared, whether disaster strikes or not,” he said.
The city’s successful track record is a testament to its effective disaster strategies and its focus on community safety. This recent recognition follows the city’s achievement of back-to-back fully compliant Gawad KALASAG awards, showcasing the consistent quality of its risk management practices.
ACDRRMO’s accomplishments highlight the importance of continuous efforts in disaster preparedness and resilience. By consistently adhering to best practices and implementing comprehensive measures, Angeles City is setting a benchmark for other LGUs in disaster readiness.
The award not only celebrates the city’s past successes but also motivates ongoing improvements in its disaster risk reduction and management programs. With Mayor Lazatin’s strong leadership and the ACDRRMO’s dedicated team, Angeles City is poised to maintain its resilience and protect its citizens against future challenges.
Source: Angeles City Information Office