Manila gets Kalasag excellence award

Manila gets Kalasag excellence award | Daily Tribune

After receiving its first-ever Seal of Good Local Governance (SGLG), the city of Manila has been awarded by the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) the Gawad Kalasag Seal of Excellence.

The award recognizes the city government’s full compliance with the standards and regulations set by the Philippine Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Act of 2010.

Mayor Honey Lacuna expressed her gratitude to the NDRRMC for the recognition, stating that the credit belongs not only to her but also to the entire city — its officials, employees and residents.

The mayor commended everyone for their support, cooperation and assistance, which ensured the city government could provide the best services for the people of Manila.

Lacuna specifically recognized the officers and staff of the Manila Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO), under Arnel Angeles, for their round-the-clock service.

She noted that their dedication and quality of work contributed significantly to the award.

The MDRRMO, she said, goes above and beyond its responsibilities without expecting additional compensation or anything in return.

“All types of disasters — typhoons, floods, fires and even road accidents — they cover it all, despite the many responsibilities they have,” Lacuna said.

The mayor also highlighted the MDRRMO’s continuous monitoring of weather conditions, updating the city government to determine the need to suspend classes.

Additionally, the MDRRMO was praised for being the first responders in cases where people need rescue due to typhoons or massive floods, particularly in areas such as Baseco, Isla Puting Bato and Parola, as well as during fire incidents.

The Gawad KALASAG is an award conferred by the NDRRMC to recognize stakeholders for their efforts in disaster prevention and building a safer nation. The award is based on principles such as transparency, partnership, innovativeness and self-reliance.

Organized by the Office of Civil Defense-NDRRMC, the Gawad KALASAG (KAlamidad at Sakuna LAbanan SAriling Galing ang Kaligtasan) is an annual ceremony honoring significant initiatives in the promotion and advancement of disaster risk reduction and management in the country.