The Zamboanga City government has heightened its disaster preparedness for the upcoming holiday festivities, placing key response teams on standby.
Blue Alert Status Activated
The City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO) officially raised the blue alert status starting Monday, December 22, 2025. This heightened state of readiness will remain in effect until Sunday, January 5, 2026, covering the peak of the holiday period.
Dr. Elmeir Jade Apolinario, the chief of the CDRRMO, announced the measure on Tuesday, December 23. He explained that under a blue alert, all designated officials and personnel from the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (CDRRMC) are required to be on standby. This ensures a swift response to any potential emergencies that may arise.
Enhanced Monitoring and Coordination
To bolster the city's response capabilities, the Operations Center (OPCEN) at the CDRRMO headquarters will conduct intensified monitoring activities. The OPCEN will maintain close coordination with relevant government agencies and uniformed services to facilitate a unified and efficient emergency response.
Dr. Apolinario also called upon all Barangay Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Councils (BDRRMCs) to actively assist in monitoring their respective communities. This grassroots-level vigilance is considered crucial for early detection and reporting of incidents.
Safety Reminders for Residents
With many families expected to travel for gatherings, the CDRRMO chief issued a key safety advisory. He strongly urged residents to disconnect or shut down all electrical Christmas decorations before leaving their homes to visit relatives and friends.
This precautionary measure aims to prevent electrical fires, which are a common hazard during the season when decorative lights are left unattended for extended periods.
In case of any emergency, the public and barangay officials are advised to immediately contact the CDRRMO through its dedicated hotlines. The available contact numbers are:
- 911
- (062) 990-1171
- (0928) 8966279
- (0966) 7316242
- (0955) 0043682
The activation of the blue alert underscores the local government's proactive approach to ensuring public safety and minimizing risks during one of the busiest times of the year.
