Philippines, Ukraine Strengthen Disaster Preparedness Cooperation
The Philippines and Ukraine have recently deepened their collaboration by sharing best practices in civil defense and emergency response. This effort aims to enhance disaster preparedness through increased international cooperation.
On June 5, Undersecretary Ariel Nepomuceno, Administrator of the Office of Civil Defense (OCD), met with Ukraine’s Ambassador to the Philippines, Yuliia Fediv, at the OCD Central Office in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City. They exchanged valuable insights about civil defense strategies, community readiness, and the implementation of early warning systems.
Nepomuceno highlighted the importance of learning from other nations to strengthen local disaster risk reduction frameworks. He stated, “Learning from the experiences of other countries is valuable as we continue to improve our strategies in preparedness, response, and protection of communities.”
Technology and Community Engagement in Civil Defense
Ambassador Fediv emphasized Ukraine’s use of technology in civil defense, particularly mobile applications that deliver real-time alerts to the public. These tools provide early warnings about potential dangers and guide people to safe zones. Ukraine developed these systems in partnership with technology firms to enhance emergency communication nationwide.
She also stressed the crucial role of community involvement in effective civil defense. According to Fediv, strong cooperation between government agencies and civil society is key to ensuring successful preparedness and response efforts. Furthermore, she offered to facilitate technical exchanges by connecting Philippine agencies with their Ukrainian counterparts.
Ongoing Conflict and Bilateral Defense Cooperation
This dialogue occurs amid Ukraine’s ongoing conflict with Russia, which has severely impacted the country since Moscow’s full-scale invasion in 2022. Recent missile and drone strikes have caused casualties and widespread damage, underscoring the urgent need for robust disaster and emergency systems.
The Philippines is simultaneously expanding its defense ties with Ukraine. On June 1, Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. met with Ukrainian Deputy Minister of Defence Oleksandr Kozenko in Singapore during the Shangri-La Dialogue. Kozenko announced Ukraine’s plan to assign a defense attaché to the Philippines, further strengthening their defense cooperation.
These developments reflect the growing partnership between the two countries in disaster preparedness and defense, aiming to better protect their citizens amid evolving threats.
For more news and updates on disaster preparedness, visit Filipinokami.com.