PDRRMO shares plan to build 2 warehouses

CEBU, Philippines — The Cebu Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO) has unveiled plans to build two disaster preparedness warehouses in the province, one in the north and another in the south, to serve as central hubs for relief goods and equipment.

PDRRMO Head Ret. Col. Dennis Francis Pastor said the facilities are envisioned to strategically position supplies across Cebu, ensuring faster and more efficient disaster response.

“This warehouse is to proceed with relief goods during disasters,” said Pastor.

An initial ocular inspection was conducted in Danao City, where Pastor, together with City Councilor Adano Roble, assessed the feasibility of a potential site for the northern warehouse.

The Danao location is being considered for its strategic advantage, as it can support northern municipalities, including Bogo City and Bantayan Island, and has access to a nearby port that could also serve Camotes Island.

Pastor noted that the site is still subject to negotiations with the local government and other stakeholders.

For the southern warehouse, plans have yet to be finalized as PDRRMO continues to evaluate potential locations.

The warehouses are not only intended to store food packs and other relief items but also large equipment necessary for disaster response operations.

“These facilities will also house resources from other national agencies, such as the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD),” Pastor added.

He emphasized that the project aligns with the vision of both local government units (LGUs) and national government agencies (NGAs) to decentralize disaster response and establish forward support facilities outside the provincial center.

“This is part of anticipatory action,” the PDRRMO head shared.

At present, the project’s budget has not yet been finalized. Deliberations are ongoing to determine the estimated cost and identify funding sources.

Despite the pending budget, Pastor assured that the planning phase is already underway, highlighting the importance of preparedness in the face of increasing disaster risks.

In a Facebook post, the PDRRMO said the initiative reflects its commitment to strengthening Cebu’s disaster readiness and enhancing its capacity to respond effectively during crises. — (FREEMAN)