UNDP lauds Albay performance in disaster situation

MANILA, Philippines - The United Nations Development Program (UNDP) has lauded Albay’s performance during the recent Mayon Volcano eruption and previous disasters and has pledged to help the province further consolidate its risk management strategy.

In a letter to Albay Gov. Joey Salceda dated Feb. 18, UNDP Country Director Renaud Meyer congratulated Salceda for his excellent handling of the recent Mayon eruption emergency.

“Your pre-emptive evacuation strategy and preparedness resulting in “zero casualty” is a solid example of good governance in disaster risk management,” Renaud said in his letter sent after UNDP representatives visited Albay’s relocation sites.

Renaud said his agency has also taken note of an earlier letter referred to UNDP by UN Resident Coordinator Jacqui Badcock, seeking UN assistance in undertaking a comprehensive assessment of damages, needs and social impact on the people brought to evacuation center, which could be made a component of a risk management information system for Albay.

Renaud said the requested assessment will contribute to the achievement of overall long-term development outcomes for Bicol.

The UNDP official also agreed with Salceda who stressed the importance of establishing credible baseline data and the need for a holistic recovery framework for Albay with possible UNDP support.