With the onset of rainy season this year, the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction Management and Resiliency Council (PDRRMRC) began preparing for the possible effects of La Niña in Ilocos Norte.
Governor Imee Marcos said disaster preparedness will ensure zero casualties and less property damage especially in the vulnerable areas in the province.
Representatives of the PDRRMRC and Ilocos Norte Police Provincial Police Office (INPPO) have begun conducting consultations in the barangay level to identify their main concerns and come up with strategic plans before, during and after disasters.
Police Chief Inspector Dexter Corpuz, Head of INPPO Police Community Relations Office, said the team has already started convening officials from highly vulnerable towns in the province such as Solsona, Dingras and Paoay.
Main concerns, according to PCI Corpuz, include improving rescue and evacuation for residents and animals in order to minimize losses and damages.
They are also planning to organize risk reduction councils in the barangay level to ensure better and faster response and coordination during emergencies.
He further advised residents, especially those living in places prone to flood and landslide areas, to take note of early warnings and seek immediate assistance from the authorities any time.
While hoping for the safety of Ilocanos, Governor Marcos urged the public for their continued cooperation and assured that the Provincial Government of Ilocos Norte is prepared for relief and medical services in case of calamities.
Last month, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration already raised La Niña alert in the country and urged local government units to brace for the impact of intense rainfall.—Jennifer T. Pambid, PGIN-CMO
