DFA Conducts Briefing on Earthquake Preparedness for Embassies and International Organizations holding offices in Makati City

From L to R: Ms. Liza Velle B. Ramos (Makati DRRMO), Ms. Fleda Rose L. Castro (Makati City DRRMO), DFA-OUCSCA Usec. Jesus S. Domingo, DFA-OCS Asst. Sec. Alan L. Deniega, and Mr. Robert G. Padillo (DND-OCD)

PASAY 21 December 2023 – In preparation for the Big One, a major earthquake that is predicted to hit Metro Manila in the future, the Department of Foreign Affairs hosted a briefing for embassies and international organizations located in Makati City.

Organized by the DFA Office of Civilian Security (OCS), the event was attended by 49 representatives representing 35 Embassies, and four International Organizations. The briefings were conducted by the Makati City government and the DND-Office of Civil Defense (OCD).

The briefing discussed the technical aspects of earthquake preparedness, and provided information on hazard, vulnerability, risk assessment, and preparations being made by the Makati City government, particularly its Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office (DRRMO). The briefing also gave practical advice to attendees in developing or enhancing their respective plans, strategies, and measures to enhance disaster preparedness and resilience.

In his welcome remarks, Undersecretary for Civilian Security and Consular Affairs (UCSCA) Jesus S. Domingo underscored the importance of collaborative efforts in ensuring the safety and preparedness of foreign residents and tourists alike in the face of a major earthquake. The DFA is the lead agency of the Philippine International Assistance Cluster (PIHAC) of the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC).

OCS is organizing additional information sessions with other embassies and international organizations located in the cities of Manila, Mandaluyong, Pasay, Pasig, and Taguig.

END

DFA Undersecretary for Civilian Security and Consular Affairs Jesus S. Domingo welcoming representatives from Embassies and International Organizations

His Excellency Mr. Tull Traisorat, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Thailand to the Republic of the Philippines sharing his views during the briefing.