02/09/2026
The inclusion of animals in disaster preparedness and evacuation planning does not diminish the paramount importance of human life and safety, but instead recognizes that responsible planning for animals can facilitate faster and more orderly human evacuation and reduce the risks faced by residents, rescuers, and animals during emergencies.
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The 17th Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Cebu has requested local government units (LGUs) to integrate the protection and welfare of companion animals, livestock, and other domesticated animals in their disaster management plans.
Filed by Lone District of Mandaue City Board Member Malcolm Sanchez, the resolution calling for animal protection was approved by the sanggunian during its regular session on August 24, 2026.
In the approved resolution, the sanggunian encourages the LGUs to integrate the protection, evacuation, rescue, temporary shelter, and welfare of the said animals in their local disaster risk reduction and management plans, contingency plans, and emergency evacuation protocols.
βThe inclusion of animals in disaster preparedness and evacuation planning does not diminish the paramount importance of human life and safety, but instead recognizes that responsible planning for animals can facilitate faster and more orderly human evacuation and reduce the risks faced by residents, rescuers, and animals during emergencies,β the Resolution states.
The resolution also identified the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO) and the Provincial Veterinary Office as offices that can provide appropriate technical guidance and assistance to component cities and municipalities in developing, adopting, or strengthening animal-inclusive disaster preparedness and evacuation measures.
Copies of the approved resolution will be furnished to the Office of the Governor, the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO), the Provincial Veterinary Office, the Department of the Interior and Local GovernmentβCebu Provincial Office, the Office of the President of the League of Municipalities of the Philippines (LMP) Cebu Chapter, and the Provincial Information Office for their information, guidance, and appropriate action.
