Cebuana Lhuillier Foundation, Inc. (CLFI), the corporate social responsibility arm of Cebuana Lhuillier, once again underscored the importance of disaster preparedness and collective action through its flagship event, the Disaster Resilience Forum (DRF) 2025. With the theme “#ResilientPilipinas, #LahatHandaAtLigtas: A Vision Forged by Action, Fueled by Collaboration,” this year’s forum aimed to elevate national awareness, shape policy dialogue, and mobilize communities in pursuit of a safer, more resilient Philippines.
At the center of this year’s discussions was the introduction of the “Big Wave” framework. This initiative highlights the urgent need to prepare for emerging threats such as storm surges, rising sea levels, and potential tsunamis from the Manila Trench. These hazards, often overshadowed by the long-discussed “Big One” earthquake scenario, are now being recognized as equally pressing concerns. By prioritizing these risks, CLFI reaffirmed its mission to empower local communities and promote proactive preparedness strategies.
Cebuana Lhuillier President and CEO Jean Henri Lhuillier stressed the vital role of barangays as the frontlines of disaster resilience. He emphasized that resilience begins at the community level and that equipping local leaders with the right tools, knowledge, and partnerships is crucial to safeguarding lives and livelihoods.
The forum was structured into three major sessions that reflected its overarching goal of vision, action, and collaboration. The first session, “Vision: Shaping a Resilient Future,” brought together agencies such as the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS), the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), and ARISE Philippines. Discussions centered on stronger leadership and the need to build capacity at the barangay level.
The second session, “Action: Empowering Local Champions,” featured contributions from the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA), the Office of Civil Defense – NDRRMC, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), and grassroots leaders. This segment highlighted community-based solutions that are scalable and have been proven to save lives in times of crisis.
The third session, “Collaboration: Strengthening Solidarity for Impact,” served as a platform for voices from government, academe, civil society, and the private sector. Discussions reinforced the importance of unified efforts and multisectoral partnerships in building resilience across the country.
In addition to dialogue, CLFI launched tangible initiatives that translated advocacy into action. Through its Tulong sa Pagbangon program, the foundation rolled out a nationwide donation campaign that allows Filipinos to contribute using digital wallets, QR codes, and traditional coin canisters. CLFI also donated E2G food bars to the Philippine Disaster Resilience Foundation (PDRF), ensuring access to ready-to-eat, nutrient-packed food during emergencies. The donation was made possible through Jean Henri Lhuillier’s role as Philippine Ambassador of E2G, a global humanitarian partner.