20/05/2026
CBDRRM training enhances disaster preparedness among youth in Mountain Province
Bontoc - The Office of Civil Defense (OCD), in collaboration with the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO) and the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Offices (MDRRMOs), is conducting a three-day simultaneous training on Community-Based Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (CBDRRM) for eighty-five (85) youth participants from the municipalities of Sadanga, Bontoc, and Sabangan at Samoki Valley and Samoki Valley Inn Rest Extension from May 18–20, 2026.
The activity aims to strengthen youth participation in disaster preparedness and community resilience through the continued implementation of the Agent for Risk and Damage Management (AGRIDAM) Project.
Community-Based Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (CBDRRM) Training seeks to equip participants with the essential knowledge, skills, and attitudes necessary to effectively implement disaster risk reduction and management strategies at the community level. Anchored on Republic Act No. 10121, the training promotes active community participation, strengthens local capacities, and empowers barangays and residents to prepare for, respond to, and recover from disasters through a coordinated and community-based approach that enhances resilience and reduces vulnerabilities.
Moroever, building on the success of the program in 2024, the Office of the Presidential Assistant for Northern Luzon and the Office of Civil Defense, together with the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), National Youth Commission (NYC), and Commission on Higher Education (CHED), continue to empower Filipino youth with essential knowledge and skills in disaster risk reduction and management.
The initiative reflects the commitment of partner agencies in developing capable and resilient young leaders who can actively serve and protect their communities during emergencies and disasters.
During the program, participants actively engaged in workshops, discussions, and simulation activities where they shared ideas and experiences related to disaster preparedness and response. The participants were divided into four groups focusing on different disaster scenarios namely: bagyo (typhoon), baha (flood), lindol (earthquake), and sunog (fire). Through collaborative workshops and practical exercises, the groups discussed appropriate disaster management strategies and community-based response measures.
At the culmination of the activity, participants demonstrated cooperation, teamwork, and active participation by presenting their insights and proposed actions on how to effectively manage disasters within their respective barangays.
The training facilitators include Civil Defense Officer III Joan T. Bimano, Civil Defense Officer I Geraldine C. Yodong, Technical Support-Training Officer Gerlie V. Tacio, Civil Defense Assistant Rhani B. Morales, PDRRM Office Jennifer F. Pangket, LDRRM Officer III Meilynne Shalom A. Ayan, Information Officer III Alpine K. Malwagay, Municipal Tourism Office representative Pulmaysen P. Awichen, MDRRM Officers Asher B. Cadaweg of Sagada, Johanna Padaen of Bontoc, and Cristy Carmelaine of Sadanga, MDRRMO of Sabangan William Jr. B. Rancudo,DRRM instructor Kristian Paolo T. Cinena, and former professor of MPSPC Eliseo Kaiser.