ZAMBOANGA DEL SUR, 09 Aug (PIA) – The Philippine Information Agency (PIA)-9, headed by Regional Director Noemi Edaga receives a Plaque of Commendation for its efforts and support to the observance of the National Disaster Resilience Month (NDRM) 2023, that contributes in attaining a safer, adaptive and disaster-resilient Zamboanga Peninsula.

PIA9 is an active member of the Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (RDRRMC)-9, and leads in the information and communication campaign for a disaster ready zampen.

“Resources spend for disaster preparedness, risk reduction and resiliency, are far more commendable than solving the effects of a disaster. Thank you, DRRMC-9 for recognizing PIA's support in addressing the need for disaster preparedness by sharing timely information to communities prone to disaster to save lives and properties,” Director Edaga said. 

The agency’s communication strategies include production of effective information, education and campaign (IEC) materials and utilizes traditional and digital media for IEC distribution. The timely delivery of accurate and relevant information to the public keeps the community abreast with the government’s efforts in disaster preparedness and response. 

The plaque was conferred during the NDRM 2023 culmination and awarding ceremony in Pagadian City, where the Office of Civil Defense (OCD)-9 expressed deep gratitude to partner agencies, organizations, and individuals for taking an active role in the successful conduct of this year's NDRM.

OCD-9 Regional Director Ramon Ochotorena underscores the significant strides in disaster risk reduction and management that have led to enhance resiliency of the region to the natural disasters.

“Together with our partners and stakeholders, we have developed early warning systems, established disaster response agencies, implemented community-based programs to improve preparedness and response during emergencies, we have partnered with public and private agencies to help mitigate the effects of these disasters,” Director Ochotorena said.  

The Office of Civil Defense also awarded the Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (DRRM) Champion Award, in the field of Disaster Response and Operations to response agencies who have provided timely and invaluable support to ensure that early preparedness against threats battling Zamboanga Peninsula is carried-out efficiently and effectively. These agencies have actively involved in activities such as attendance to emergency meetings, briefings, logistical support and activation of the various clusters related to disaster response.

“In times of disasters, the strength of a nation lies not just in its infrastructure and resources but in the unity and collective action of its people,” said Director Ochotorena. (NBE/CCP/PIA9)