Civil Service Commission (CSC) Chairperson Karlo Nograles commended the unwavering dedication of civil servants engaged in disaster risk reduction and management (DRRM) as the country commemorates National Disaster Resilience Month (NDRM) this month.
(Photo courtesy of NDRRMC/Manila Bulletin)
In a statement, Nograles lauded the civil servants who play a vital role in safeguarding the lives and well-being of Filipinos during emergencies, calamities, and other hazardous events.
He praised their dedication to serving the public and acknowledged the critical role they fulfill in protecting communities and strengthening disaster resilience within the nation.
"We extend our heartfelt salute to first responders, DRRM officers and committees, planners and engineers, scientists, public health personnel, and many others who continuously strive to ensure the safety of our communities and enhance disaster resilience in our country. Your expertise, courage, and dedication to public service are crucial in making Filipino communities more agile and better prepared against any impending disaster," said Nograles.
He also expressed gratitude to the families of primary responders, acknowledging their selfless understanding and support for their loved ones' sworn duty. He emphasized that their dedication and willingness to risk their lives in service of their fellow Filipinos are deeply appreciated.
This year's NDRM, themed "BIDAng Pilipino: Building a Stronger Filipino Well-Being towards Disaster Resilience," highlights the collective effort required to promote the well-being of citizens and ensure their safety in the face of disasters.
Nograles shared the CSC's initiatives aimed at contributing to the DRRM agenda. Through Memorandum Circular (MC) No. 21, s. 2018, the CSC requires government agencies to conduct DRRM training to enhance employees' capabilities in mitigating and preparing for disaster risks.
As part of the government's commitment to advancing citizens' well-being, the CSC has implemented policies to foster a healthy workplace for the 1.8 million civil servants. This initiative was achieved through the signing of the National Policy Framework on the Promotion of Healthy Workplace in collaboration with the Department of Health (DOH) and the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE).
The framework establishes guidelines and outlines key strategies for implementing health promotion interventions in identified areas such as diet and physical activity, environmental health, and mental health.
Meanwhile, the CSC-DOH-DOLE Joint MC No. 1, s. 2020 or the Guidelines on Occupational Safety and Health Standards for the Public Sector, provides that agencies must have first aiders who are trained and certified by the Philippine National Red Cross. Aside from regular training and drills on DRRM, agencies must also establish a Risk Reduction Management System, a Crisis Management Plan, and a Contingency Program in an emergency situation, among others.
Nograles also urged government employees to actively participate in and support not just this month's activities but also the government's concerted efforts to promote science-based strategies in disaster risk reduction and protecting every household.
"As a country situated in the Pacific Ring of Fire, we are vulnerable to frequent earthquakes and volcanic eruptions, not to mention the effects of climate change. Your cooperation is not only a part of your responsibility as public servants but also of building safer, adaptive, and resilient Filipino families that will pave the way to sustainable development," reminded Chairperson Nograles.
By virtue of Executive Order No. 29 signed by then President Rodrigo Duterte on June 28, 2017, National Disaster Consciousness Month was renamed National Disaster Resilience Month, observed every July. The observance is spearheaded by the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council and the Office of Civil Defense.