‘Phl’s disaster preparedness needs improvement’

MANILA, Philippines - In spite of what was said to be a commendable response by the government to Typhoon Ruby, the country still needs to improve its preparedness to future hazards, Sen. Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said yesterday.

Marcos said there is a need to institutionalize disaster and relief response protocols both in the national and local levels.

The senator has filed Senate Resolution 1056 seeking an inquiry into the implementation of Republic Act 10121 or the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Law in relation to Typhoons Yolanda and Ruby.

He said officials of the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council and the Office of Civil Defense would be asked to explain how the law was implemented.

Marcos said the inquiry aims to improve existing laws and institutions to ensure safety and survival of communities and its residents.

Marcos commended the government for evacuating people before Ruby made landfall. However, he said there is a need to fine-tune the council’s response systems in order to prevent loss of life.