Bangsamoro launches first disaster response plan

MANILA, Philippines — The Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), with the support of the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA)?and UNICEF, launched on Wednesday the first Bangsamoro Disaster Response Plan.

The BDRP will prioritize the safety and well-being of the Bangsamoro people, many of whom are facing risks posed by climate change.

The launch of the BDRP came a day after the observance of World Humanitarian Day. It highlighted the urgency of building resilience in a region frequently hit by calamities such as floods, landslides and typhoons.

BARMM Chief Minister Abdulraof Macacua said the BDRP is based on the principle of moral governance.

The development of the plan was supported by the United Nations Children’s Fund and funded by KOICA.

“KOICA is proud to support the Bangsamoro government through UNICEF in delivering this first-ever disaster response plan for BARMM,” KOICA country director Jung Youngsun said.

UNICEF acting representative Behzad Noubary said the Philippines is among the most disaster-prone countries and children are vulnerable to climate and environmental shocks.

The BARMM Ministry of Social Services and Development and the Bangsamoro Rapid Emergency Action on Disaster Incidence as well as  member ministries, offices and agencies of the regional disaster risk reduction and management council identified flooding and rain-induced landslides as among the most frequent and damaging calamities in the region.

The disaster response plan will enhance the region’s capacity to respond effectively to calamities, armed conflict and other complex emergencies as well as protect lives, minimize disruption and strengthen community resilience.

The plan will encourage local government units to mobilize their resources and lead emergency response efforts, and identify ways to seek support from national government agencies, other LGUs, or partners when necessary.