OCD unveils seven-point agenda to boost disaster resilience

MANILA — The Office of Civil Defense (OCD) has rolled out a seven-point resilience agenda designed to enhance the Philippines' disaster preparedness and response systems. The initiative, which coincides with the agency's 72nd founding anniversary, represents a strategic effort to build greater institutional and community capacity for managing natural disasters.

OCD Deputy Administrator Rafaelito Alejandro IV outlined the resilience agenda, which aims to address gaps in the country's disaster management framework. The plan encompasses infrastructure development priorities alongside institutional strengthening measures to improve coordination and response mechanisms across national and local government units.

The initiative reflects growing concerns about the Philippines' vulnerability to typhoons, earthquakes, and other natural hazards. By integrating infrastructure improvements with operational enhancements, the OCD seeks to reduce disaster-related casualties and economic losses while building community awareness and preparedness.

The seven-point agenda is expected to guide the agency's strategic direction in coming years, with implementation coordinated across multiple government departments and local government units. Officials stressed the importance of sustained commitment to disaster risk reduction as part of the broader national development agenda.