Bangsamoro Government Enhances Disaster Readiness with Rescue Vehicle Distribution
The Bangsamoro Government, operating through the Ministry of the Interior and Local Government (MILG), has taken a significant step to fortify disaster preparedness and emergency response across the region. On Tuesday, February 10, the government officially turned over rescue vehicles to 90 villages located in Marawi City and various municipalities within Lanao del Sur.
Strengthening Emergency Response Capabilities
Bangsamoro Interim Chief Minister Abdulraof Macacua emphasized in an official statement that each of the 90 selected villages received one rescue vehicle. This strategic distribution is designed to substantially boost their capacity to respond swiftly and effectively during emergencies and calamities, ensuring that communities are better equipped to handle crises.
"This project is not only a response to past struggles. It is our commitment to ensure that you have the means to protect and nurture every life in your village," Macacua declared. He further added, "These vehicles will allow you to respond swiftly to those in need when disaster strikes."
Part of a Larger Assistance Package
The vehicle turnover is a key component of a more extensive assistance package funded under MILG's Special Development Fund (SDF) for 2024. This comprehensive initiative includes the provision of 200 rescue vehicles and 100 medical equipment units across the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), highlighting a broad commitment to regional safety and resilience.
Selection Criteria and Accountability Measures
Beneficiary villages were meticulously chosen based on MILG guidelines, primarily utilizing the Local Government Functionality Appraisal for Barangays (LoGFA-B). Priority was granted to villages that achieved an Ideal Functionality rating and maintained highly functional Barangay Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Councils (BDRRMCs). This selection process aligns with the Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Performance Compliance and Monitoring System (DRRM-PCMS), ensuring that resources are allocated to areas with proven operational effectiveness. Villages under special circumstances were also taken into consideration during the selection.
To ensure proper use and maintenance of the vehicles, the MILG and recipient villages signed a memorandum of agreement. This document outlines specific obligations and accountability mechanisms governing the deployment and operation of the rescue vehicles, fostering transparency and responsible stewardship.
This initiative represents a proactive effort by the Bangsamoro Government to empower local communities, enhance disaster resilience, and safeguard lives through improved emergency response infrastructure.
