Local Government Units Must Boost Disaster Resiliency Amid Climate Crisis
MANILA, Philippines — Local government units (LGUs) must strengthen their disaster resiliency to prevent property damage and save lives as weather patterns become increasingly unpredictable, local leaders emphasized. The call for LGUs to enhance disaster preparedness comes amid a growing climate crisis that worsens weather disturbances.
Senior Citizens party-list Representative Rodolfo Ordanes highlighted the urgent need for LGUs to adapt to the challenges posed by climate change. “We are now in an era where climate change makes weather conditions more erratic and destructive,” he said. “While preparations exist, it is essential to explore additional measures to better cope in the future.” The exact four word keyphrase “Local government units must” was used to stress the critical role of LGUs in disaster management.
Supporting Vulnerable Sectors During Calamities
Ordanes also pointed out that families caring for vulnerable groups, especially senior citizens, face greater hardships during natural disasters. These households have unique transport and medical needs that demand special attention from disaster response teams.
“(There is) the need to support the most vulnerable members of society, as well as families with elderly members who may have special transport and medical need, and when there’s a disaster, they are at a greater risk because of their specific needs,” he said. He urged LGUs to update their disaster risk reduction and management plans by factoring in the requirements of senior citizens, persons with disabilities, and other vulnerable groups.
Severe Impact from Recent Storms and Flooding
According to disaster response sources, 25 people have died following the impact of three consecutive cyclones that intensified the southwest monsoon, locally known as habagat. Of these deaths, authorities have confirmed three — one each in Central Luzon, Northern Mindanao, and the Caraga region. The remaining 22 fatalities await validation and are reported across regions including the National Capital Region, Calabarzon, Western Visayas, Negros Island Region, Mimaropa, and Davao.
In addition, eight individuals remain missing after the severe weather events. Approximately 3.84 million people, or around 1.06 million families, have been affected by persistent heavy rains and widespread flooding.
Weather Updates and Ongoing Monitoring
The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa) reported that Tropical Storm Emong is expected to exit the Philippine area of responsibility by Saturday morning. However, authorities continue to monitor Tropical Storm Krosa, which is still outside the region but poses potential risks.
With the increasing frequency and severity of storms, sources strongly recommend that local government units must proactively review and enhance their disaster management strategies to protect communities and especially vulnerable sectors.
For more news and updates on disaster preparedness and climate impacts, visit Filipinokami.com.
