BALER, Aurora — The Provincial Government of Aurora officially inaugurated its new Emergency Operations Center (EOC) in Barangay Suklayin on 31 July 2025 — marking a major step in strengthening the province’s disaster preparedness and response capabilities.

The project is part of Governor Reynante A. Tolentino’s flagship program, Serbisyong Bukas-Pala, which aims to enhance public service delivery, particularly in emergency and disaster response.

The new EOC serves as a central hub for coordination, information management, and rapid deployment during crises. According to Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Officer Engr. Elson Amado A. Egargue, the facility is designed to improve the speed, efficiency, and organization of the government’s disaster response efforts.

“This facility is not just a building; it is a symbol of our unity, preparedness, and compassion for every resident of Aurora,” Egargue said during the launch.

Beyond crisis response, the EOC will also function as an educational center for disaster awareness, helping promote preparedness among local residents.

The project forms part of Aurora’s broader Disaster Preparedness and Resilience Program, aligned with Governor Tolentino’s vision of building a disaster-resilient province equipped to face both natural and man-made emergencies.