Zamboanga's 1103rd Infantry Brigade Wraps Up Disaster Preparedness Training in Jolo
The 1103rd Infantry Brigade (1103Bde), in a collaborative effort with the Local Government Unit of Jolo and the Office of Civil Defense–Zamboanga Peninsula, has successfully concluded a comprehensive training program focused on disaster management. This initiative, which ran from Monday, February 2, to Thursday, February 5, included a one-day Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (DRRM) Orientation Course and a three-day Basic Incident Command System (ICS) Training Level 1.
Third Leg of Metro Jolo Capacity Building Program
This four-day activity marks the third installment of the Metro Jolo Capacity Building Program, following similar successful DRRM and Basic ICS training sessions conducted in the municipalities of Patikul and Indanan during 2025. Metro Jolo, which comprises the adjoining municipalities of Jolo, Patikul, and Indanan, is systematically strengthening its disaster preparedness across all areas within the brigade's responsibility.
With the completion of the Jolo leg, the 1103Bde plans to advance its initiative to systematically enhance disaster response capabilities throughout its jurisdiction. The program specifically aimed to boost the operational readiness of the Jolo DRRM Council by providing essential knowledge to local DRRM officers, village officials, first responders, and key stakeholders.
Focus on Coordinated Response and Interoperability
The training emphasized critical principles of disaster risk reduction and the Incident Command System, with a strong focus on coordinated response, interoperability, and effective command and control during emergencies and disasters. This ensures that all participants are well-equipped to handle crises efficiently and collaboratively.
The activity was conducted in close coordination with the Sulu Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO) and the OCD–Zamboanga Peninsula. This partnership ensured that nationally prescribed DRRM and ICS standards were properly cascaded and institutionalized at the local government level, fostering a unified approach to disaster management.
Leadership and Commitment Highlighted
Both the 1103Bde and the LGU of Jolo expressed their appreciation to the OCD–Zamboanga Peninsula for its technical expertise, guidance, and steadfast support, which were instrumental in the successful implementation of the training. The culmination program and graduation ceremony on Thursday, February 5, were graced by notable figures, including Major General Leonardo Peña, commander of the 11th Infantry Division; Brigadier General Emmanuel Cabasan, 1103Bde commander; Jolo Municipal Administrator Edzzedin Tan; and Sulu PDRRMO Chief Julkipli Ahijon.
Their presence underscored the strong commitment of both military leadership and the provincial and municipal governments to disaster preparedness and resilience-building initiatives. This event highlights the ongoing efforts to build a more resilient community in the face of potential disasters.
