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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider BFP, PH emergency teams join ASEAN Disaster Response Exercise in Cambodia

BFP, PH emergency teams join ASEAN Disaster Response Exercise in Cambodia

Published Jul 26, 2025 02:20 pm
(MB FILE PHOTO)
(MB FILE PHOTO)
The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) and other Philippine emergency response agencies are in Cambodia for the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Regional Disaster Emergency Response Simulation Exercise (ARDEX) 2025.
BFP Deputy Chief for Operations Chief Supt. Wilberto Rico Neil A. Kwan Tiu explained that the fire bureau’s primary objective is geared towards enhancing the understanding of disaster mechanisms aligned with ASEAN Coordinating Centre for Humanitarian Assistance (AHA) standards, assess interoperability during complex emergency situations and foster regional collaboration among its member states.
He noted that the involvement of the Philippine delegates in the exercise highlights the country’s commitment to strengthening regional disaster response capabilities through inter-agency cooperation.
During the visit, the BFP delegation paid a courtesy call to Her Philippine Ambassador to the Kingdom of Cambodia Maria Amelita C. Aquino, who expressed her support for the country’s ongoing regional engagements. 
“Organized under the ASEAN Agreement on Disaster Management and Emergency Response (AADMER) and coordinated by the ASEAN Coordinating Centre for Humanitarian Assistance (AHA Centre), ARDEX aims to strengthen regional preparedness and cooperation in large-scale disaster response scenarios,’’ the BFP stated. 
Aside from the BFP, the exercise was also participated in by other Philippine response agencies, including the Armed Forces of the Philippines–Urban Search and Rescue (AFP-USAR) and the Department of Health's Public Health Emergency Medical Assistance Teams (PMAT)/Emergency Medical Teams (EMT). 
The delegation also extended its gratitude to Col. Leo C. Dimoc, Defense and Armed Forces Attaché (DAFA) of the Philippine Navy, for his invaluable assistance in coordinating Team Philippines’ participation in the exercise.
Likewise, the BFP  extends its appreciation to the organizers of ARDEX 2025, particularly the AHA Centre, the National Committee for Disaster Management (NCDM) of Cambodia, and the ASEAN Secretariat, for the opportunity to take part in this critical regional initiative. 
Special recognition was also given to the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) for its support in facilitating BFP’s involvement. 
“The experience significantly contributed to strengthening the Bureau’s operational readiness and reaffirmed its commitment to enhancing the country’s disaster preparedness in cooperation with regional partners,’’ the BFP continued. 
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