San Fernando, Pampanga — Bataan claimed a landmark victory at the 24th Gawad KALASAG Seal for Excellence in Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (DRRM) and Humanitarian Assistance, held on November 28, 2024, at the Laus Group Event Centre.
The province received the prestigious Beyond Compliant Award, recognizing its exceptional efforts in disaster preparedness and community resilience. Sharing this top-tier accolade were the municipalities of Abucay, Dinalupihan, and Orion, cementing Bataan’s standing as a national leader in DRRM initiatives.
In addition, the Fully Compliant Award was conferred upon Balanga City and the municipalities of Bagac, Hermosa, Limay, Mariveles, Orani, Pilar, and Samal, underscoring their steadfast commitment to achieving and exceeding national disaster preparedness standards.
A Unified Effort Toward Safety and Resilience
Governor Joet Garcia credited these achievements to the collective dedication of the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO) and the local government units (LGUs). “Ang mga pagkilalang ito ay bunga ng ating sama-samang pagsisikap upang mapangalagaan ang kaligtasan ng ating mga kababayan,” he remarked.
Bataan’s proactive strategies range from strengthening community-based disaster preparedness to pioneering innovative DRRM programs. These efforts exemplify the power of collaboration among LGUs to safeguard communities from natural and man-made calamities.
Setting a National Benchmark
The Gawad KALASAG, short for “Kalamidad at Sakuna Labanan, Sariling Galing ang Kaligtasan,” is the country’s highest honor for excellence in DRRM and humanitarian assistance. Bataan’s sustained achievements in this domain set a standard for other provinces, showcasing how strategic planning and community involvement foster sustainable resilience.
Aligned with its vision of “1Bataan” — a unified pursuit of progress and development — Bataan’s victory highlights its commitment to building a safer, more disaster-resilient future.
Inspiring a Safer Philippines
As the ceremony concluded, the overarching message was clear: Bataan’s triumph is not just a recognition but a call to action for others to prioritize disaster preparedness and resilience. Bataan serves as an inspiration, demonstrating that a shared commitment to safety can transform challenges into opportunities for national progress.