The Office of Civil Defense (OCD) officials headed by its Administrator, Undersecretary Ariel Nepomuceno discussed the agency’s modernization program, recent accomplishments, programs, and activities, as well as internal operational concerns during its command conference in Zamboanga City.
Office of Civil Defense said, the five-year modernization program (2023 to 2028) is composed of 34 projects on strengthening tactical programs, the launch of legacy projects, the formulation of comprehensive resilience master plans, and internal operational improvements.
Regarding the recent accomplishments, the OCD discussed updates on training programs, the 2024 Gawad Kalasag preparation, budget utilization, engagement with Local Government Units and government agencies, and inventory of non-food items across the country.
The OCD regional offices have been actively providing technical assistance to various stakeholders and engaging with local government units and government agencies. Additionally, the inventory of non-food items is high as part of preparedness efforts.
On programs and activities, the major ongoing activities of OCD include preparations for the Philippines’ hosting of the Asia Pacific Ministerial Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction (APMCDRR) in October, the observance of National Disaster Resilience Month, and the review of training course packages scheduled this July.
Various internal issues and concerns were also tackled and addressed with the guidance of Usec. Nepomuceno.
Usec. Irineo Espino of the Department of National Defense also graced the event as the guest of honor. He conveyed the DND’s unwavering support for the activities of OCD and encouraged the agency to persist in its efforts and enhance effectiveness in fulfilling its mission.
