A lawmaker has filed House Bill 5764, a measure seeking to establish a Department of Disaster and Emergency Management (DDEM), aimed at strengthening the country’s preparedness and quick response to calamities.

Representative Nathaniel Oducado of 1Tahanan Party-list stressed the need for a specialized and permanent government body dedicated to safeguarding Filipino lives against natural and human-induced disasters.

“The Philippines faces recurring threats from typhoons, earthquakes, floods, and other hazards that continue to disrupt lives and livelihoods,” Oducado said. “We can no longer afford fragmented, short-term responses. The government must act with unity, speed, and foresight."

The bill proposes that the DDEM serve as the country’s lead agency for preparedness, prevention, mitigation, response, and recovery. It would consolidate and strengthen the functions currently held by the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) and the Office of Civil Defense (OCD), streamlining operations and ensuring a clear chain of command during crises.

The measure mandates the DDEM to establish permanent, typhoon-resilient evacuation centers nationwide; integrate disaster preparedness and climate resilience into national and local planning; utilize science-based tools like geographic information systems for risk assessment; and ensure the transparent management of resources so that aid reaches affected communities swiftly and equitably.

The lawmaker stressed the humanitarian character of the proposed department.

“Disaster management is not just about structures and systems — it’s about people. Every action must protect the dignity, safety, and welfare of our citizens,” he said.

With the creation of the DDEM, House Bill No. 5764 envisions a more resilient Philippines. “In every storm, Filipinos stand strong. But it’s time that the government stands even stronger with them,” he added.