Gonzales wants systematic disaster response

MANILA, Feb. 9 — Defense Secretary and concurrent National Disaster Coordinating Council (NDCC) Chairman Norberto B. Gonzales called on disaster managers to systematically prepare on two things – receiving help and giving assistance when disasters hit.

Gonzales highlighted this during the 1st Quarter Regional Disaster Coordinating Council (RDCC) IX Meeting held in Zamboanga City on February 5, 2010. He said that even as the RDCCs focus on meeting disasters that hit their regions and receiving help during such events, it is also important to prepare to give assistance when disaster strikes elsewhere.

“I want you to begin really studying on how you will receive assistance if disaster strikes your area. Receiving help from others properly means that you can maximize the impact of such assistance. I also want you to prepare how to give your help,” Gonzales said.

Gonzales cited the onslaught last year of typhoon "Ondoy" saying, “the truth that surfaced is that the response of our people is so overwhelming. So, I’m not afraid to say that if a disaster strikes in a particular region or province of our country, I think our people will be more than happy to give. Now, it is our job in the NDCC to have a system on this one. Let us not waste resources. Let us not waste time.”

“Let us show to our people that when they entrust their kindness through government, government will deliver in the most efficient manner. This is the idea why we should have this kind of system,” he added.

Gonzales also stressed to the Zamboangueños that he does not want to impose what her termed as "imperialism" of Manila.

“I think you guys here in Zamboanga, in your region, should be prepared as well to respond if Manila is hit by an earthquake. In the same manner that I would expect the people of Manila to respond to you if you are hit.”

“I think we will begin this kind of scheme, I think that as a people and as a nation, I don’t have to preach you on this one. I think we are naturally really helpful, but I’d like it to be scientific and let’s be prepared. Remember you are all veterans of disasters, you know that timely response is essential in our kind of work. The faster we deliver, more lives are saved. More pains are relieved,” Gonzales concluded.(PNA)V3/VR

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