LOOK || Paunan-o Titindugon an Sambayanihan: A round-table discussion

The National Resilience Council (NRC) in close coordination with the Provincial Government of Northern Samar (PGNS) convened earlier today, November 8, 2023, for the Sama-Samang mga Samahan para sa Isang Matatag na Bayan (SAMBAYANIHAN) meeting with various stakeholders at the Provincial Planning and Development Office Conference Area, Provincial Capitol, Catarman.

The objective of the said activity was to reinforce the collaboration among the NRC, PGNS, civil society organizations, and academe. In remembrance of the devastating Super Typhoon Yolanda or Haiyan, the roundtable discussion serves as a timely opportunity to acknowledge that no individual or place is exempted from the adverse impacts of disasters or the losses the hazards bring. This also aims to highlight the importance of efficient planning, implementation, and monitoring of programs, projects, and activities that aim at mitigating disaster risks in order to safeguard individuals and communities as well as their livelihoods and well-being.

Ms. Maylyn Pagatpatan, the Strengthening Institutions and Empowering Localities against Disasters and Climate Change (SHIELD) Programme Provincial Associate, expressed her gratitude for the active involvement of diverse stakeholders in fostering resilience. She emphasized that this activity serves as a reminder of the disastrous effects of Super Typhoon Yolanda or Haiyan, and the importance of enhancing preparedness to effectively recover from any calamity. Furthermore, Ms. Pagatpatan highlighted the need to ensure the organization’s capacity to sustain operations even in the aftermath of a disaster.

Mr. Christopher Estallo, the Program Manager of NRC, provided a comprehensive overview of the SHIELD Programme and SAMBAYANIHAN, ensuring that all members were well-informed. These initiatives are dedicated to eradicate poverty and prevent inequalities through the promotion of sustainable development.

Mr. Estallo iterated the significance of SAMBAYANIHAN, emphasizing the need for strengthened public and private partnerships to proactively prepare, adapt, and transform. Further, he said that every member of society acts as a key player in development.

All stakeholders enthusiastically engaged and shared their valuable insights on establishing a robust resilience framework. This collaborative effort ensures the active involvement of all individuals in planning and implementing programs and policies, allocating resources where they are most needed, and rapidly scaling up when necessary, all for the greater advancement of the province.

As their conversation started, they discussed a shared vision, ultimately leading them to forge an agreement to draft an executive order that would be presented to Gov. Ongchuan. This visionary decree would pave the way for the inception of the SAMBAYANIHAN program, fortified by ingenious financial mechanisms harnessed from the wellspring of the local government units.

In addition, the stakeholders agreed for their collective efforts to harmoniously form a Technical Working Group for the SAMBAYANIHAN Program. They strategically deliberated those that would be an integral part of this transformative initiative, fostering adaptability and flexibility at its core.

Stakeholders from various offices in the public and private sectors were present during the meeting.

By ensuring the safety and resilience of all individuals residing in the communities, this initiative aligns with the strategic vision for good governance of Gov. Edwin Marino Ongchuan. His development agenda known as Padayon nga KAUSWAGAN or Sustained PROGRESS, emphasizes the continuous advancement and well-being of the people, particularly in the face of natural hazards and climate change impacts.

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