A-PAD Philippines National Platform Meeting 2024: Strengthening Regional Collaboration for Disaster Resilience
The A-PAD Philippines National Platform Meeting, held on October 16, 2024, at Seda Manila Bay Hotel, gathered key stakeholders to discuss Disaster Resilience and Emergency Response strategies. Mr. Gilbert Albero, President of A-PAD PH, delivered the opening remarks, followed by key messages from distinguished speakers: Mr. Firzan Hashim, Director and COO of A-PAD Sri Lanka; Mr. Rene S. Meily, President of the Philippines Disaster Resilience Foundation; and His Excellency Endo Kazuya, Ambassador of Japan to the Republic of the Philippines.
Mr. Hashim emphasized the importance of sharing knowledge gained through experience and commitment. He highlighted the strengths of Regional Collaboration and stressed the significance of Localization in Disaster Management, ensuring People-Centric Initiatives tailored to each country’s needs. Additionally, he underscored the necessity for effective coordination to align resources with the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction.
The event showcased A-PAD PH’s achievements for 2023-2024, focusing on the expanded National Platform coverage, new initiatives in Climate Action and Microenterprise Disaster Resilience, sustained engagement with local and regional platforms, and the promotion of Youth Volunteerism for Disaster Risk Reduction Management. A Multisector Approach panel featured presentations from diverse experts: Ciriaco Tolibao II on Microenterprise Disaster Resilience, Prof. Karl Lenin Benigno on Disaster Education, Dr. Jeremy Cordero on Emergency Medical Service Systems, Sr. Marissa Y. Figueroa on Typhoon Carina Response, and Dr. Rey R. Ponteras on Local Private Sector Initiatives in Medical Emergency Care.
A unique aspect of this platform meeting was the active participation of A-PAD International representatives, which facilitated a rich exchange of ideas and strategies. Their presence highlighted the global nature of Disaster Resilience efforts, fostering cross-country knowledge sharing. The event concluded with participants gaining valuable insights into effective multi-sectoral and international approaches to Disaster Management, emphasizing the importance of collaboration in building resilient communities across borders.
