By Xander Ledesma
The Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (PDRRMC), under the leadership of Governor Manuel L. Sagarbarria, introduced its new fleet of emergency response vehicles during a ceremonial blessing held on December 1, 2024, at the Capitol Forecourt in Dumaguete City. The new vehicles aim to enhance the province’s disaster response capabilities and preparedness.
Local officials, members of the PDRRMC, and emergency response teams attended the event. Governor Sagarbarria highlighted the significance of the new fleet as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen the province’s resilience against natural and human-induced disasters.
The fleet includes ambulances, fire trucks, and rescue vehicles, which will be deployed across Negros Oriental to ensure prompt and efficient emergency response. This acquisition aligns with broader initiatives to modernize the province’s disaster management framework, particularly in light of the increasing threats posed by climate change and natural disasters.
As one of the most disaster-prone countries in the world, the Philippines frequently faces typhoons, earthquakes, and volcanic eruptions. The addition of these emergency vehicles is expected to significantly improve Negros Oriental’s capacity to address such emergencies, reducing casualties and damage to property.
The ambulances will enhance access to medical care in remote areas during crises, while fire trucks will bolster firefighting efforts, particularly during the dry season. Rescue vehicles will play a critical role in search-and-rescue missions following disasters such as floods and landslides. The fleet will also aid in coordinated disaster response efforts among local government units (LGUs) across the province.
The Local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Division (LDRRMD), in collaboration with the PDRRMC, facilitated the acquisition of the vehicles. The division has also been conducting training sessions and drills to ensure that emergency personnel are prepared to utilize the new vehicles effectively.