The Office of Civil Defense-Davao (OCD-11) has called on newly elected officials in the region to retain personnel in the Local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (LDRRMO), especially those who have undergone training with OCD.

OCD-11 made the call after several local disaster responders and staff raised concerns about the possibility of being replaced or terminated after the 2025 midterm elections, particularly in areas where new mayors will assume office.

OCD-11 Director, Ednar Dayanghirang, acknowledged and respects the authority of newly elected officials to appoint or select their own staff. However, he urged them to consider keeping the existing disaster responders, especially those who are already trained by OCD and familiar with the protocols and operations.

“Panawagan nako sa LGUs kutob sa makaya di nato kambyuhan ang atoang workers sa disaster office daghan na nag-text sa akoa nga sir napildi among mayor sigurado nga kambyuhan mi ani,” Dayanghirang said.

If changes cannot be avoided, Dayanghirang said those who will be appointed to the disaster team must be qualified and have undergone proper training.

“However authority na sa atong LCE (local chief executive) nga magpili og tao ang among recommendation diha kung pwede katong na train na sa OCD para di mabalda ang atoang disaster management,” Dayanghirang said.

Meanwhile, residents in the region, especially those in flood- and landslide-prone areas, are urged to remain vigilant as moderate to heavy rains are still expected due to the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ), according to the weather forecast from PAGASA.