PASAY CITY: At the onset of the Asia-Pacific Ministerial Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction (APMCDRR), the Presidential Communications Office (PCO) called on media representatives to actively foster a culture of risk reduction and resilience. The conference, which marks the Philippines’ first time hosting the event, runs from October 14 to 18 at the Philippine International Convention Center.
According to Philippines News Agency, PCO Secretary Cesar Chavez emphasized the influential role of the media in disseminating critical information that can safeguard lives during disasters. During the APMCDRR Media Reception, Chavez conveyed President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s message from the recent ASEAN Summit, highlighting climate change as a paramount threat to regional and global futures. He stressed the importance of media coverage that is both fair and impactful, urging journalists to focus on facilitating understanding and actionable responses among the public.
The United Nations Office for Disaster Risk R
eduction convened the gathering to share effective solutions, promote inclusive governance in disaster risk management, and bolster resilience across Asia and the Pacific. Chavez encouraged the media to use their platforms to enhance public comprehension and spur community-based actions that prioritize safety and preparedness.
In related discussions, Department of National Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. highlighted the importance of community-centric approaches in disaster risk strategies. Speaking on the conference sidelines, Teodoro articulated the need for strong community bonds and local governance in fostering resilience and mutual assistance during calamities. He also mentioned ongoing improvements in the country’s early warning systems and the challenges posed by misinformation during disaster events.
Security arrangements for the APMCDRR were also detailed by Southern Police District Director Brig. Gen. Bernard Yang, who assured comprehensive measures, including the deployment of 269 officer
s and specialized units, to safeguard the event participants.