Interior and Local Government Secretary Benhur Abalos on Tuesday lauded the 256 Local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Councils nationwide that were conferred with the coveted beyond-compliant Gawad KALASAG Seal.

The awardees were recognized for their exceptional contributions to strengthening the resilience of communities against disaster risks.

"Congratulations to all the recipients of Gawad KALASAG. Mabuhay kayong lahat" Abalos said.

"But let me underscore that as times change through technological advancements, what will carry us through [against disasters, calamities] is selflessness and the spirit of Bayanihan," Abalos stressed during the awarding ceremonies held at The Manila Hotel.

Gawad KAlamidad at Sakuna LAbanan, SAriling Galing ang Kaligtasan is an annual recognition for various stakeholders who promote and implement DRRM, climate change adaptation, and humanitarian assistance programs.

Winners are cited for protecting high-risk communities against extreme hazards and capacitating them to address their vulnerabilities.

The DILG Secretary said the 256 LDRRMCs exceeded the standards of the National Gawad KALASAG Committee headed by the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council, placing them in the prestigious 'Beyond Compliant' category.

In addition, 723 other LDRRMCs were also cited under the "Fully Compliant" category for their exceptional dedication and expertise in disaster management and planning.

He likewise emphasized the indispensable role LGUs play in disaster management and response.

"Ang nakatuon talaga dito ay ang ating mga LGUs. Kapag darating ang bagyo — pupuntahan si kapitan, si mayor, para tanungin kung ano ang gagawin."

He also directed all LGUs to unite and use the examples and best practices of the awardees as a blueprint for future disaster risk reduction planning. "What is important is we unite in our cause and look at the best practices of our exemplary LGUs," he said.

Abalos, together with NDRRMC Chairperson and Department of National Defense Chief Secretary Gilberto "Gibo" Teodoro Jr. and Executive Director USec Ariel F. Nepomuceno, graced the presentation of the Gawad KALASAG Seal, which commenced by recognizing the Top 5 Municipal, City, and Provincial scorers.

Under the Municipal Category, the Top 5 performing LDRRMCs were: Gloria Oriental, Mindoro; Kiamba, Sarangani; Narra, Palawan; Mabinay, Negros Oriental; and Kapatagan, Lanao Del Norte.

For the top performing cities, the City of Makati garnered the top spot, with Dipolog City, City of San Pedro, Calapan City, and City of Zamboanga completing the top 5.

Lastly, the Province of Agusan Del Norte had the highest-scoring LDRRMC, followed by Occidental Mindoro; Mountain Province; Benguet; and Davao Oriental.

Aside from the Gawad KALASAG Seal Awardees, special awards were conferred on distinguished individuals and organizations who made exceptional contributions to strengthening the resilience and adaptive capacities of local communities.

Among the awardees were the Fallen 5 of Team Alpha Bulacan Rescue Unit, who sacrificed their lives to rescue civilians during supertyphoon 'Karding.'