By Michelle Ducut
At least 88 local government units (LGUs) in the Bicol Region were honored on Thursday with the prestigious Gawad KALASAG award for their outstanding disaster risk reduction management (DRRM) and humanitarian assistance programs.
During the awarding ceremony held at the Oriental Hotel in Legazpi City, Office of Civil Defense (OCD) Bicol Regional Director Claudio Yucot emphasized the significance of the Gawad KALASAG, describing it as more than just an awards program. “It has become a symbol of resilience and a platform to showcase the remarkable contributions made by stakeholders dedicated to safeguarding communities against disaster threats,” he said.
The annual Gawad KALASAG, established in 1998, recognizes exemplary efforts in disaster preparedness, climate change adaptation, and humanitarian assistance. Yucot noted the growing number of awardees, which increased from 12 LGUs in 2022 to 55 in 2023 and 88 in 2024, demonstrating steady progress in disaster preparedness across the region.
LGUs recognized as “Beyond Compliant” for exceeding the required DRRM plans and programs included the provincial governments of Camarines Norte, Camarines Sur, Masbate, and Sorsogon, as well as various cities and municipalities, such as Sorsogon City, Masbate City, and Virac, among others.
Provinces like Albay and Catanduanes, along with Naga City, were acknowledged as “Fully Compliant.” Several other LGUs from across Bicol also received awards for their commitment to preparedness and resilience.
Yucot commended the awardees for setting a benchmark in disaster preparedness, urging them to inspire neighboring areas to strengthen their own strategies. He also highlighted the program’s role in continuously refining approaches to disaster risk reduction and addressing community vulnerabilities.