Makati rated ‘beyond compliant’ in Gawad Kalasag disaster risk reduction assessment

Makati City has received the highest compliance rating from the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC).

Makati Mayor Abby Binay said the city had been ranked "Beyond Compliant" at the 22nd Gawad KALASAG (Kalamidad at Sakuna Labanan, Sariling Galing ang Kaligtasan) Seal and Special Awards for Excellence in Disaster Risk Reduction and Humanitarian Assistance for the year 2021.

"We are grateful for this recognition as it affirms our commitment to a disaster-ready and resilient Makati. Thank you to the NDRRMC for recognizing our efforts," Binay said.

Binay commended the Makati Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (MDRRMC) members for successfully implementing programs and projects to ensure Makati citizens' safety.

The Local DRRM Councils and Offices will receive a GK Seal of Excellence via a virtual awarding this year, according to NDRRMC Circular 02 of 2022.

The Gawad KALASAG is a mandatory assessment for all Local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Offices (LDRRMOs) as they implement the provisions of Republic Act No. 10121 Sections 11 and 12, or the institutionalization of LDRRMOs or LDRRMCs, including the allocation and utilization of the Local DRRM Fund. It is one of the many awards the city has received for disaster resilience.

In September, the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR) named Makati the first-ever Resilience Hub in the Philippines and Southeast Asia.

Furthermore, Makati was also elected as the lead city of the Disaster Cluster of CityNet, the largest association of urban stakeholders who commit to sustainable development in the Asia Pacific region. —Sherylin Untalan/NB, GMA News