Support Grows for Early Disaster Declaration Bill
The Office of Civil Defense (OCD) has voiced strong support for the proposed Senate legislation aimed at establishing a legal framework for early disaster declarations. This early disaster declaration bill, known as Senate Bill No. 2999 or the Declaration of State of Imminent Disaster Bill, promises to transform how the Philippines prepares for natural calamities.
Undersecretary Ariel Nepomuceno, the OCD administrator, called the bill “a much-needed step forward.” He emphasized that the bill shifts the country’s disaster management from a reactive response to a proactive approach. “Moving from a reactive stance—responding only after disasters happen—to a proactive approach is essential. Acting early can help prevent or significantly lessen the impact of calamities,” he explained.
Proactive Measures to Reduce Disaster Impact
Sponsored by Senator Jinggoy Estrada, the early disaster declaration bill seeks to create a legal basis for declaring disasters before they actually occur. The bill relies on scientific forecasts and evaluations to authorize early preventive actions, enabling authorities to reduce potential damage ahead of time.
Senator Estrada pointed out the Philippines’ high vulnerability to natural disasters, citing frequent typhoons, floods, landslides, and storm surges that affect millions every year. Last year alone, storms caused damages worth an estimated P20 billion, impacting countless Filipino families, local leaders noted.
Allocating Funds for Prevention and Flexibility
The bill proposes that 70 percent of local governments’ disaster funds be allocated specifically for preventive measures. This would grant local officials the flexibility to act swiftly on early warnings instead of waiting for disasters to strike. “This bill is about turning disaster risk into an opportunity for leadership and innovation,” Estrada said.
Moreover, the legislation aims to improve coordination between national agencies, local governments, and international partners. This unified approach promises to make disaster response more efficient and timely.
Aligning with Regional Best Practices
The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) supports the bill, highlighting that it aligns with regional practices adopted by ASEAN countries. The bill encourages anticipatory action, focusing on preventing disasters from escalating rather than just reacting after they occur.
Nepomuceno and other stakeholders urge the Senate to prioritize this bill, stressing the urgent need to empower communities with laws that support proactive disaster management. “It’s time to prioritize anticipatory action—preventive steps that can stop disasters from escalating. We need laws that empower communities and make our disaster response more proactive rather than just reactive,” the OCD chief added.
For more news and updates on disaster preparedness and legislation, visit Filipinokami.com.