Negros Oriental is enhancing its disaster response and mitigation strategies with a significant financial commitment of over PHP200 million, as announced by Adrian Sedillo, head of the Local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (LDRRMO). This investment, approved under the leadership of Governor Manuel ‘Chaco’ Sagarbarria, aims to fortify the province’s readiness against natural calamities.
The funds have been strategically allocated to procure essential equipment and resources. This includes 30 mini patient transport vehicles (PTVs) costing PHP30 million and nine larger PTVs at PHP27 million, which are integral to the Department of Health’s DRRM for Health program. These vehicles will be deployed to areas and hospitals with urgent transport needs during emergencies.
In addition to transportation, the province has invested in water purifiers, established operation centers in provincial hospitals, and conducted various training sessions. Infrastructure projects such as flood control measures and evacuation centers have also been developed to mitigate disaster impacts.
A new mobile command operations center, equipped with advanced communication tools, satellite links, solar power, and rescue equipment, has been acquired to enhance quick response capabilities during emergencies. The LDRRMO building itself now benefits from partial solar power, ensuring continuous operation during power outages and disasters.
This comprehensive approach to disaster management reflects Negros Oriental’s commitment to safeguarding its residents and infrastructure against the adverse effects of natural disasters.