Guimaras boosts disaster preps with new equipment

The province of Guimaras bolstered its disaster preparedness and management measures by acquiring new equipment.

A brand-new wheel loader worth Php6.580 million and a 12,000-liter capacity water tanker worth Php8, 180 million will strengthen the capacity of the provincial government to prepare for and mitigate the impact of disasters.

Teresita Siason, Local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Officer, together with members of the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (PDRRMC) of the province led the blessing ceremony of the equipment on March 6, 2020 at the Capitol Grounds, San Miguel, Jordan, Guimaras.

Rev. Jose Alex Serania was the officiating priest.

Siason said that the wheel loader will be used for disaster mitigation and rehabilitation works when disasters hit the island.

The water truck will assist the Bureau of Fire Protection during fire incidents.

“We procured the two new heavy equipment because of the need for disaster preparedness response and rehabilitation measures. Ang water truck maka-assist sa BFP in times of fire incidents nga indi na magbalik-balik sa fire hydrant. Ang wheel loader para sa mitigation and rehab works,” Siason said.

With the impacts of climate change and the Philippines being prone to natural disasters, local government units (LGUs) are expected to be at the frontline of emergency measures according to Siason.