THE Office of Civil Defense (OCD) on Tuesday hailed the House Committee on Appropriations’ approval of a substitute measure to House Bills 9935 and 10233 on the proposed Declaration of State of Imminent Disaster Act.
The committee’s adoption of the proposed law, announced on January 21, 2025, was meant to institutionalize Anticipatory Action among local governments, ensuring the incorporation of essential measures into their Local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (LDRRM) plans, and the National DRRM plan for relevant national government agencies.
“The approval of the Declaration of State of Imminent Disaster Act is a pivotal moment for disaster preparedness in our nation,” OCD administrator Ariel Nepomucenos said.
“By institutionalizing anticipatory action, we are proactively safeguarding our communities from the catastrophic impacts of natural hazards,” he added.
OCD director Chris Noel Bendijo, spokesman and legal and legislative officer, represented the agency during the hearing.
The discussions focused on the funding provisions of the bill. This legislation aims to enhance preparedness for impending hazards and establish a government mechanism for timely declarations.
“This legislation will empower local government units with the requisite resources and mechanisms to effectively respond to anticipated hazards. It reflects our unwavering commitment to ensuring that no community is left susceptible to the consequences of imminent disasters,” Nepomuceno said.
