LAGAWE, Ifugao(PIA) - - Two local government units in Ifugao took the  cultural value of  “Binaddang” (Bayanihan)  a notch higher formally adopting it as a strategy in disaster risk reduction management.

This  binaddang culture of helping one another to attain a common goal without expecting anything in return, inspired the LGUs of Asipulo and Kiangan  to embrace it as a system in times of disasters and emergencies.

Asipulo Mayor Archie Lee A. Quindo and Kiangan Mayor Raldis Andrei A. Bulayungan recently signed a  memorandum of understanding for the Binaddang  program to boost their capacities in times of disaster and other emergencies, and in pursuit of objectives that are mutually beneficial.

The MOU stated that it shall be the responsibility of  both LGUs to maintain close coordination for public safety, security and protection of life and property in times of disasters and other emergencies.

They will organize incident command systems and establish communication linkages by appointing or designating focal person who shall make communication lines open and available for disaster operations once assistance is requested.

Also, provide trainings and capacity building mechanism for community-based disaster risk reduction management team, conduct regular emergency drills, and capacitate emergency personnel, and respondents for possible assistance and augmentation to any requesting party.

The MOU  signing  and  ceremonial launching  was witnessed by Governor Jerry Dalipog and other local officials.  (JDP/MBL-PIA CAR,Ifugao)