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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider Metro Manila devider LGUs must maximize time, funds to prepare for calamities — Mayor Francis

LGUs must maximize time, funds to prepare for calamities — Mayor Francis

Published Oct 18, 2025 01:02 pm
San Juan City Mayor Francis Zamora oversees a disaster response simulation conducted to ensure the city's readiness against disasters and other emergencies. (Photo from Mayor Francis Zamora)
San Juan City Mayor Francis Zamora oversees a disaster response simulation conducted to ensure the city's readiness against disasters and other emergencies. (Photo from Mayor Francis Zamora)
San Juan City Mayor Francis Zamora on Friday, Oct. 17, urged local government units (LGUs) nationwide to expedite disaster preparedness to ensure both government and community readiness when calamities strike.
According to Zamora, who also serves as the Metro Manila Council (MMC) president and League of Cities of the Philippines (LCP) national president, emphasized that the Constitution mandates that all  LGUs allocate funds and resources that may be used before, during, and after disasters.
"Mahalaga ang ating Republic Act 10121, which is the Philippine Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Act of 2010. It is the law that strengthens our country's disaster management system which mandates a compehensive all-hazards multi-sectoral approach to disaster risk reduction and management (Republic Act 10121 is extremely important, which is the Philippine Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Act of 2010. It is the law that strengthens our country's disaster management system which mandates a comprehensive all-hazards multi-sectoral approach to disaster risk reduction and management)," Zamora explained.
"Ang ibig sabihin niyan, meron tayong pondong pumapasok sa Disaster Risk Reduction Management Fund. Even prior to the calamity or the disaster, you can already tap into these funds. Ito 'yung dapat i-maximize natin gaya ng pagbili ng sapat ng kagamitan, mga emergency vehicles and equipment (That means we have funds going to the Disaster Risk Reduction Management Fund. Even prior to the calamity or the disaster, you can already tap these funds. This is what we should maximize, like purchasing enough disaster response equipment, emergency vehicles, and other equipment)," he added.
The mayor previously underscored the importance of preparation and cooperation between the government and the public, calling for a whole-of-nation approach.
"In light of the recent earthquakes that have struck our nation, concerns continue to grow that the “Big One” could hit Metro Manila at any time. I urge all our citizens—not only those from the National Capital Region (NCR) but also from all regions across our country—to recognize their crucial role in disaster preparedness. Your vigilance and active participation can greatly help save lives and minimize property damage. To this end, I encourage my fellow mayors to continue strengthening capacity-building programs for disaster management officers, staff, and our citizens," Zamora said
He also called on local officials to ensure that "all local government units are adequately equipped with emergency vehicles, equipment, and supplies to enable a prompt and effective response in the event of a disaster." 
"Furthermore, I recommend the strict and continuous monitoring by the Offices of the Building Official (OBO) of both government buildings and private establishments, to certify the structural integrity of these infrastructures and ensure public safety," he noted, appealing for the public's continued vigilance and disaster preparedness, saying that it is a shared responsibility to always be ready.
The situation in San Juan 
The local chief executive also assured his constituents of the city government's readiness for disasters and other emergencies.
Since March of this year, the city government had distributed Emergency Go Bags to San Juaneños, which contains emergency supplies and first aid items that can be used to survive when disaster strikes. Zamora had also ordered the purchase of additional Go Bags to be given to San Juan City households.
He noted that the city government, particularly its City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO), regularly conducts simulations and exercises to guarantee their preparedness.
Barangay seminars and forums are also being held to educate residents on what to do in times of calamities.
Zamora also emphasized the importance of maintaining rescue equipment, emergency vehicles and trained personnel for immediate deployment.

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FRANCIS ZAMORA DISASTER PREPAREDNESS CALAMITIES EMERGENCY METRO NEWS SAN JUAN CITY MMC LCP
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