PIMENTEL TACKLES DISASTERS

Apart from electoral reforms, Sen. Aquilino "Koko" Pimentel III has a new advocacy: disaster risk management.

Pimentel will convene a Region I Summit on Disaster Risk Reduction and Multi-Hazard Awareness in Candon City, Ilocos Sur on July 4.

"The country is among the most vulnerable to natural disasters, such as typhoons and earthquakes that cause the loss of many lives and extensive damage to property," Pimentel pointed out.

In convening the Region I Summit, Pimentel emphasized that "our people should be adequately prepared to deal with all types of calamities, whether natural or man-made."

Pimentel, who hails from Cagayan de Oro City that was heavily damaged by flooding from a strong typhoon last year, said disaster risk reduction and awareness of various hazards should be the concern not only of the national government but more importantly, of local government units.

"LGUs should be in the frontline of this effort as they know the actual situation in their communities," Pimentel added.

The summit is made possible with the full support of the local government of Candon City headed by Mayor Allen G. Singson, together with the local government of Tagudin municipality led by Mayor Roque Versoza Jr.

The summit will bring together all the stakeholders of Region I, including local government units, the private sector, academe, civil society groups and local communities, to discuss various ways to keep the people safe from the risks posed by natural and man-made disasters.

Interested parties may call mobile number 0920-912-1480 for more details.