Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Benjamin “Benhur” Abalos Jr. expressed the readiness of the agency to respond to emergency and disastrous circumstances, specifically with the threat of the La Niña phenomenon in the country, through its "Operation Listo" program.
Abalos Jr. stressed that Operation Listo will play a major role in preparing the public for the heavy rains and strong winds brought by the weather phenomenon.
"Operation Listo is an advocacy program of the DILG aimed at strengthening disaster preparedness among LGUs using a whole-of-government approach," Abalos explained.
Its first component, called Listong Pamahalaang Lokal, was launched in 2014, institutionalizing local protocols for disaster preparedness, response, and monitoring.
He stated that every canal and drainage system should be cleaned and unclogged regularly to prepare for the La Niña threat, stressing that these preparations are urgent with two or even three typhoons per month bringing in more water and probably stronger winds expected during the weather phenomenon.
Recently, some Metro Manila areas were submerged in floodwaters as a result of the “habagat" (southwest monsoon), leading Malacañang to suspend classes in public schools and work in government offices in the National Capital Region (NCR) upon the recommendation of the National Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council (NDRRMC).
The LGUs are enjoined to implement the DILG’s Operation Listo Protocol for Hydrometeorological Hazards and be guided by DILG Memorandum Circular (MC) No. 2020-125 that provides preparedness measures, and other relevant issuances.