Angeles City (AC) has been recognized as the third most disaster-resilient local government unit (LGU) in the country, a significant achievement that highlights the city’s unwavering commitment to disaster preparedness and management. This accolade came from the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) during its annual Seal of Good Local Governance (SGLG) assessment, which evaluates various factors including resilience, safety protocols, and overall disaster risk reduction capabilities.
This recognition places Angeles City among the elite LGUs that have demonstrated effective strategies in safeguarding residents from natural and man-made calamities. Officials from the city, including Mayor Carmelo “Pogi” Lazatin Jr., expressed pride in the city’s achievement, noting that this is a testament to their relentless efforts in building a safer and more secure community. Lazatin emphasized that the city’s success in disaster preparedness is not just about infrastructure but also about continuous training and community involvement.
The DILG’s SGLG is a rigorous performance assessment program that rates LGUs based on their adherence to good governance standards. For the 2023 assessment, resilience was a significant criterion, and AC’s performance in this area reflected its thorough approach to disaster management and emergency response. This ranking highlights the city’s comprehensive emergency plans, its state-of-the-art disaster response facilities, and the readiness of local first responders.
One notable aspect of Angeles City’s disaster resilience is its investment in early warning systems and advanced technology. The city has equipped its disaster risk reduction and management office with tools that allow for real-time monitoring and quick dissemination of information to residents. This enables timely evacuations and targeted responses during emergencies. The integration of these technologies plays a crucial role in minimizing damage and ensuring public safety.
The city’s successful strategies are also supported by partnerships with non-governmental organizations, private sector players, and the community. Collaborations with these groups help reinforce the city’s capability to respond to crises effectively and bolster public awareness about disaster preparedness. Education campaigns and drills are regularly conducted to prepare citizens for various scenarios, ensuring that every resident knows how to respond in case of an emergency.
Mayor Lazatin praised the collaborative efforts that have led to this recognition, stating that disaster resilience is a shared responsibility among local authorities, the private sector, and the community. He reiterated that this award is a reminder of the importance of unity and proactive measures to protect and serve the people of Angeles City.
In closing, the city’s achievement not only serves as a benchmark for other LGUs but also as motivation to continue improving. Being ranked as the third most disaster-resilient LGU is a milestone that inspires AC to further innovate and elevate its preparedness strategies. The city’s success is a model of effective leadership and collective action, reinforcing its status as a leader in disaster risk management in the Philippines.
Source: Punto Central Luzon Newspaper
