RA 10121 Consultations with Local Disaster Risk Reduction Management Actors

December 15 to 17, 2024

RA 10121 Consultations with Local Disaster Risk Reduction Management Actors

The City Government of Makati envisions itself to become a global leader for disaster and climate resilience. Long before the passage and implementation of the Philippine DRRM Act of 2010 (Republic Act 10121), Makati has been a trailblazer in DRRM through the establishment of a dedicated rescue team in 1992 and the first local government run Operations Center in 2004.

With the proposed review of the RA 10121 in the Congress and Senate after almost 16 years, Makati City has gathered local government units and partner organizations to discuss about the gaps and opportunities for strengthening the landmark law on DRRM in the Philippines.

On December 15-17, 2024, the City Government of Makati, along with DRR Net Philippines and World Vision Philippines, hosted the RA 10121 Consultations with Local DRRM Actors in Makati City. Around 80 key stakeholders in DRRM from the public and private sector participated in the said consultations to gather insights, experiences, and recommendations in the implementation of RA 10121. Through the consultations, the City Government of Makati and its partners hope to propose evidence-based amendments to the law addressed to the regional DRRM offices.

Understanding that local government units and other private local entities are at the forefront of tackling the effects of disasters in their respective communities, Makati City and its partners were successful in identifying non-negotiables in the amendments to the RA 10121 and its implementation, all while considering the needs of key stakeholders and the vulnerable sectors such as people with disabilities, children, and women.

Among the highlight proposals are the inclusion of the magna carta for DRRM workers, standardized competencies in the DRRM practice, improved data-sharing among governments and organizations for data-driven planning, and enhanced stipulations on the appropriation and utilization of the Local DRRM Fund.

Moreover, the key stakeholders were also able to participate in an exhibit and site learning visit in the facilities of the Makati DRRM Office to enhance the participants' understanding of Makati's emergency management and response mechanisms.

The event proved to be a significant platform for dialogue among local DRRM actors, enabling the crucial exchange of experiences and recommendations that will contribute to the ongoing enhancement of disaster risk management policies in the country. The participants’ invaluable contributions and commitment to strengthening the collective efforts from various levels are pivotal for the amendments of the said law.