DEFENSE Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr., Chairperson of the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC), has directed the institutionalization of the Inter-Agency Coordinating Cell (IACC) to strengthen the country’s disaster preparedness and response.
Through Memorandum No. 355, s. 2024, Teodoro instructed all NDRRMC and Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (RDRRMC) member agencies to operationalize the IACC, ensuring a more unified and efficient approach to managing disaster situations.
The move follows the IACC’s reconvening on November 5 as part of the government’s preparations for Typhoon Marce. The IACC has become a vital tool in coordinating responses to successive typhoons affecting the Philippines, highlighting its role in fostering real-time collaboration among key agencies.
A Platform for Unified Action
The IACC serves as a multi-agency platform to enhance coordination and decision-making during emergencies. It provides a common operational picture, enabling agencies to share critical information and coordinate disaster risk assessments, planning, and responses effectively.
“The establishment of the IACC marks a crucial step in our collective efforts to enhance our disaster response capabilities,” Teodoro stated. “By fostering collaboration among agencies, we can ensure a swift and effective response to any disaster situation that may arise.”
Key functions of the IACC include:
Facilitating real-time information sharing among agencies.
Monitoring and assessing disaster situations for timely community warnings.
Supporting unified response and recovery planning.
Organizational Leadership and Support
At the national level, the IACC will be chaired by the NDRRMC Chairperson, with regional IACCs led by Office of Civil Defense (OCD) Regional Directors. The OCD will oversee IACC activities, encouraging member agencies to convene at emergency operations centers as needed.
Teodoro emphasized that the IACC complements existing disaster risk reduction and management protocols and urged member agencies to provide their full cooperation. He highlighted the platform’s proven effectiveness in managing past disasters and its potential to further enhance government readiness.
“This memorandum solidifies our commitment to proactive and collaborative disaster management,” he added.
The institutionalization of the IACC reflects the government’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its disaster response framework, ensuring Filipino communities are better prepared for the challenges posed by natural calamities.