Palace activates nat'l disaster response plan

As the country grapples with the effects of recent cyclones, Malacañang ordered national government agencies to implement the 2024 National Disaster Response Plan (NDRP), which contains strategies to effectively mitigate calamity risks and effects and ensure the timely delivery of aid to affected areas.

- ALEXIS ROMERO

The government adopted the response plan through Memorandum Circular No. 100 signed by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin by the authority of President Marcos last Sept. 23.

"All concerned agencies and instrumentalities of the national government, including government-owned or controlled corporations, are hereby directed, and all local government units are hereby encouraged, to undertake efforts in support of the implementation of 2024 NDRP, and the plans and programs specified therein," the circular read.

The Office of Civil Defense was tasked to coordinate closely with the Presidential Communications Office to disseminate the plan to all concerned government entities.

53 areas on alert

The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) placed Metro Manila and 52 provinces on alert as local government units brace for the impact of Severe Tropical Storm Opong (international name Bualoi).