With the theme “KUMILOS para sa Kahandaan, Kaligtasan, at Katatagan,” the event, led by the Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council VIII (RDRRMC VIII) through the Office of Civil Defense (OCD), highlighted the importance of collective action in strengthening community preparedness, safety, and resilience.

Representing Regional Director Arnel M. Agabe, Assistant Regional Director Atty. Darwin N. Bibar delivered a message of support, emphasizing the Department’s steadfast commitment to empowering LGUs and communities in building disaster-resilient systems and institutions.

“We are committed to working hand-in-hand with OCD, other national agencies, local governments, and communities to ensure that our efforts translate into tangible improvements on the ground,” ARD Bibar stated.

Reinforcing this call to action, RD Arnel M. Agabe earlier emphasized:

“Preparedness is not a one-time activity but a shared responsibility. We must invest in building a culture of readiness—where every LGU, every official, and every citizen understands their role in mitigating risks and protecting lives.”

Following the ceremony, a three-day Resilience Exhibit was launched from July 2 to 4, featuring tools, innovations, and strategies from RDRRMC VIII member agencies to promote disaster resilience and education.

DILG 8’s interactive booth showcased Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) materials on disaster preparedness. These included the Disaster Preparedness Manual, references for the Management of the Dead and Missing Persons (MDM) Program, and brochures on the Multi-Hazard Impact-Based Forecasting and Early Warning System (MHIBFEWS) Project. Materials were distributed to visitors to strengthen public awareness and enhance LGU readiness in addressing disaster risks.

DILG Region 8’s active participation affirms its continuing commitment to promoting local preparedness, institutional coordination, and resilience-building efforts across Eastern Visayas.