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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider DSWD pushes Manila-ASPECT Framework for faster, coordinated ASEAN disaster response

DSWD pushes Manila-ASPECT Framework for faster, coordinated ASEAN disaster response

Published Mar 6, 2026 12:24 pm
Social Welfare and Development Secretary Rex Gatchalian (DSWD Photo)
Social Welfare and Development Secretary Rex Gatchalian (DSWD Photo)
The Philippines, as chair of the 2026 Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Socio-Cultural Community (ASCC), is spearheading a new region-wide framework aimed at improving disaster preparedness and humanitarian response across Southeast Asia.
Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Secretary Rex Gatchalian on March 5 unveiled the Manila-ASEAN Strategic Protocol for Emergency and Comprehensive Transformation (Manila-ASPECT).
“Following the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., taking into account the intensifying environmental threats we experience, we initiated the Manila-ASEAN Strategic Protocol for Emergency and Comprehensive Transformation, or ASPECT,” Gatchalian said.
“The framework aims to develop a roadmap for regional interoperability and cooperation, for the timely and effective access of support in anticipation of and in response to disasters and extreme weather events,” he added.
As chair of the ASCC this year, Gatchalian emphasized that the framework embodies a proactive, integrated, and inclusive approach to disaster response across the region.
“The theme of ASEAN has always been to put regional cooperation at the center of everything we do. The best way to take care of the vulnerable, not just in our country but across the region, is to ensure neighbors can help one another when disasters strike,” he said.
Gatchalian described Manila-ASPECT as a progressive policy aligned with the ASCC’s pro-people agenda, which aims to safeguard vulnerable populations and prevent them from becoming further disadvantaged in disasters.
He noted that one of the framework’s key features is a trigger mechanism that will facilitate swift regional coordination.
Gatchalian said it will also define regional group responses, and for large-scale disasters, ASEAN dialogue partners would be involved to provide additional capacities for faster and more coordinated response.
The Manila-ASPECT Framework is expected to be discussed and potentially adopted during the 48th ASEAN Summit later this year.
Aside from Manila-ASPECT, the 35th ASCC Council meeting also highlighted regional priorities under the R.I.S.E. agenda: Resilient and Empowered Families; Inclusive Development; Smart Youth and Innovation; and an Environmentally Sustainable and Food-Secure Future.

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DSWD ASEAN MANILA-ASPECT DISASTER RESPONSE
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