ASIA-PACIFIC DISASTER CONFERENCE BEGINS TODAY; GUN BAN ENFORCED IN NCR

Thousands will gather on the conference for disaster risk reduction from October 14-18 held in Manila, including representatives rom 69 countries  (Photo courtesy of Philippine Star)

The Philippines will be hosting the biennial event Asia-Pacific Ministerial Conference for Disaster Risk Reduction (APMCDRR) for the first time. The event will commence at the Philippine International Convention Center in Pasay City that will run for five days from October 14 to 18.

More than 4,000 representatives from 69 countries will gather in the said event including governments, international and civil society organizations, the private sector, science, academe and stakeholder groups to strengthen cooperation on disaster resilience and risk reduction.

The APMCDRR is the main platform in the region to advance, monitor, review, and enhance cooperation for the implementation of the goals, targets, and priorities for action of the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015-2030, the global blueprint to prevent new and reduce existing disaster risks.

According to the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction, the framework calls for "the substantial reduction of disaster risk and losses in lives, livelihoods and health and in the economic, physical, social, cultural and environmental assets of persons, businesses, communities and countries.”

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said in a statement, "This gathering will bring together stakeholders from across the region to strengthen cooperation, share best practices, and develop policies to help mitigate the devastating effects of natural disasters, especially those exacerbated by climate change."

Meanwhile, the Philippine National Police (PNP) deployed 269 personnel across various key areas to ensure public safety during the 2024 APMCDRR. Multi-Agency Coordinating Center, Police Assistance Desks, venue and perimeter security, and mobile patrols. Specialized units, including medical teams and EOD/K9 (K9/Explosive Ordnance Disposal) units will be present to ensure a comprehensive security approach.

A gun ban is also implemented for five days during the duration of the conference in Metro Manila. Based on a memorandum issued by PNP chief Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil, permits to carry firearms outside of residence are suspended. 

Uniformed personnel of the PNP, Armed Forces of the Philippines and other law enforcement agencies are allowed to carry firearms while on duty. 

Also, work in government offices and classes at all levels in Manila and Pasay are suspended today and tomorrow. Private companies will have the discretion to call off work during the duration of the conference. 

The 2024 conference theme “Surge to 2030: Enhancing Ambition in Asia-Pacific to Accelerate Disaster Risk Reduction” emphasizes the urgency of strengthening regional efforts to ensure a safer future for all.

Source: Philippine Star 

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