TIMOR-LESTE has sought the assistance of the Philippines in enhancing its disaster risk reduction and management (DRRM) capabilities.
The appeal was expressed by Marciano Octavio Garcia Da Silva, resident ambassador-designate of Timor-Leste, during his visit to the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) in Manila last Friday.
“We would like to learn from the Philippines what they do that can save lives, reduce disaster risks, and the means they have been using to assist us in Timor-Leste,” Da Silva said, noting that the Philippines is a country well-versed in disaster management because of its frequent exposure to natural calamities.
The delegation from Timor-Leste, which included notable officials including Jesuino dos Reis de Matos Carvalho of the Timor-Leste Civil Protection Authority, highlighted the importance of establishing early warning systems and the four thematic pillars of DRRM: prevention, preparedness, response and recovery.
The discussions centered on the Philippine DRRM system, particularly the National DRRM Operations Center, which has been instrumental in coordinating disaster responses in the archipelago.
Officials of the OCD, including Assistant Secretary Hernando Caraig Jr. and Assistant Secretary Bernardo Rafaelito Alejandro IV, commended Timor-Leste’s “dedication to enhancing its DRRM strategies, both for its nation and in preparation for its future role as a member of the Asean Committee on Disaster Management,” Alejandro said.
“The Office of Civil Defense is committed to collaborating with you and various international organizations to foster a safer and more disaster-resilient world for all,” he added.
Alejandro said the Philippines has a comprehensive framework for disaster management shaped by years of experience with typhoons, earthquakes and other natural hazards.
He said this system emphasizes not only immediate response but also long-term strategies for disaster risk reduction.
Caraig, on the other hand, underscored the necessity of international collaboration by adopting proactive strategies and cultivating a unified commitment to understanding the challenges.
“This collaborative approach is essential for protecting our communities and enhancing resilience in the face of adversity,” he said.
The Timor-Leste delegation’s visit follows their participation in the Asia-Pacific Ministerial Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction, held from October 14 to 18 in Pasay City.
The conference provided a platform for countries in the Asia-Pacific region to share best practices and strategies in disaster risk management.
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