The Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (MDRRMC) of Itogon, presided over by Vice Mayor Dante Allain Xavier D. Godio, convened its first-quarter meeting today, February 6, at Balingway Hall, Poblacion, to assess past initiatives and outline disaster preparedness plans for 2025.
The Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO), through Engr. Cyril Batcagan, Local Disaster Risk Reduction, and Management Officer III, presented its 2024 Accomplishment Report, highlighting stockpiling efforts and training programs. However, some initiatives, such as crash vehicle training and camp management training, remain unimplemented due to logistical challenges. Capital outlay projects, however, will proceed as continuing programs.
For 2025, key plans include Mountain Search and Rescue Training, Water Search and Rescue Training, and Response Continuing Capability Development Programs. A portion of the budget—P1.2 million—will go toward food and non-food emergency supplies. Infrastructure improvements and procurement of personal protective equipment (PPE) for responders were also discussed.
Claudette Cariño, Health Program Officer II, reported on monkeypox (Mpox) cases in Benguet. Cariño stressed the importance of early detection, prevention, and public awareness to curb the spread of Mpox and other health threats.
The Bureau of Fire Protection through FISNP Edgardo Reduca has given an account of the reported fire cases in the municipality from December 2024 to January 2025. There are four structural fires, two forest fires, and one grass fire, making seven reported fire cases as of January 31. FISNP Reduca reminds everyone of RA 9003 or the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act of 2000, which prohibits burning leaves and other waste materials.
The MDRRMC remains committed to disaster resilience and ensuring the completion of pending programs within the year.
PHOTOS | Jelly Rose Navaja,
WORDS | Jay Ralph Galunza, Shayne Ashley Sudiacal: BSU Interns
