Senator Imee Marcos reiterated on Monday her call to create a National Resiliency and Disaster Management Authority (NRDMA), which will focus on “preparing, giving warnings, responding to and helping communities after calamities.”

In a news release, Marcos highlighted the need for a centralized authority to address vulnerabilities and improve coordination, particularly in frequently affected areas like the Bicol region.

“Bicol faces the Pacific, has an active volcano, and is subject to numerous accompanying threats. Why hasn’t a synchronized national response been established?” Marcos said.

“If we have a centralized authority for disaster management, we would be able to identify the most vulnerable zones and prepare properly against disasters.”

Senator Marcos has filed Senate Bill No. 186 that seeks to establish the NRDMA, aiming to enhance disaster preparedness, response, and recovery efforts.

In pushing for the passage of the measure, she underscored the urgency of creating a centralized authority to streamline disaster response, ensure efficient aid delivery, and safeguarding livelihoods.

Under SB 186, the NRDMA shall be the primary agency responsible for preparing, leading, organizing, and managing the government’s effort to disaster resiliency and management, including coordination with different departments, agencies, and local government units in the different phases of disaster: prevention and mitigation, preparedness, response, rehabilitation and recovery.

The Authority shall be empowered with policy-making, coordination, integration, supervision, monitoring, implementation, evaluation, and capacity building functions.

The primary mission of the NRDMA is to reduce the loss of life and property and protect the country from all hazards, including natural and man-made disasters and armed conflicts. (PNA)