The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) continues to enhance the capacities of local government units (LGUs) in disaster preparedness through robust systems-based protocols, grassroots engagement, and anticipatory planning. Following President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr.’s 2025 State of the Nation Address, the DILG reaffirmed its commitment to building resilient communities by equipping both barangays and cities with tools that prevent loss of lives and ensure rapid response.

Secretary Jonvic Remulla said the Department’s posture is simple but resolute: anticipate, prepare, and act decisively before disasters strike. “Disaster preparedness must be embedded in how we govern every day. Bago pa bumaha, bago pa tumama ang bagyo, dapat may galaw na ang lokal na pamahalaan,” Remulla said.

As Vice Chair for Disaster Preparedness under the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council, the DILG leads the implementation of Operation Listo, a disaster readiness protocol that standardizes pre-disaster actions for governors, mayors, and punong barangays. In April 2025, the Department launched the enhanced Listo si Kap protocol, focusing on equipping barangay officials with the right tools, coordination frameworks, and situational checklists to activate even in far-flung sitios.

The Department has also taken a stronger stance on LGU-led solid waste management and flood mitigation, recognizing the connection between local governance and climate resilience. All LGUs have been urged to update their disaster preparedness plans, monitor critical waterways, and preposition cleaning and rescue assets ahead of weather disturbances. Barangays are expected to lead early warning dissemination, implement evacuation protocols, and coordinate with city and municipal DRRM councils.

To support this, the DILG is upgrading Emergency 911 systems nationwide. More LGUs are now operating local E911 call centers that are geotagged, multilingual, and linked directly to police, fire, and medical responders. This allows for faster deployment and clearer coordination at the community level.

The Department is also integrating disaster risk reduction with inclusive wellness and community programming. Through Memorandum Circular No. 2025-037, LGUs are reminded to open civic spaces such as parks, plazas, and covered courts to all members of the public, particularly during emergencies and evacuations. These same venues are also encouraged to be used for disaster education, drills, and wellness activities to strengthen community ties.

“The work of preparedness does not belong to one office alone. Every barangay, every LGU must be part of the system. Preparedness is governance. Kaligtasan ay responsibilidad ng lahat,” said Remulla.

The DILG is currently monitoring compliance with disaster protocols nationwide and working with the Department of Budget and Management to support LGUs in upgrading equipment and training under the Local Government Support Fund and other resilience initiatives.

Original Article At: https://dilg.gov.ph/news/DILG-Prioritizes-Strengthened-LGU-Systems-and-Community-Protocols-in-Disaster-Preparedness/NC-2025-1120