PUERTO PRINCESA CITY, Palawan — The Provincial Government of Palawan formally kicked off National Disaster Resilience Month 2026 on July 1 with a Holy Mass and the blessing of new emergency vehicles at the Capitol. The event signaled a strengthened commitment to keeping communities safe as the rainy season intensifies.
A Sacred Start to a Month of Preparedness
Rev. Fr. Eugene Elivera led the Mass attended by employees from various provincial offices. Board Members Juan Antonio Alvarez and Rafael Ortega Jr. joined members of the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council. The gathering set a solemn tone, emphasizing that true resilience begins with unity and prayer.
The celebration reflected the year’s national theme, “Naghahanda at Kumikilos Tungo sa Panatag na Bagong Pilipinas.” Provincial DRRM Officer Jeremias Y. Alili shared that the theme captures both readiness and action. His presence underscored the province’s determination to move swiftly when disasters strike.
New Assets for Faster Emergency Response
After the Mass, the blessing of six brand‑new ambulances, two heavy equipment units, and a closed van took center stage. These vehicles are now ready for deployment in emergency response, search and rescue, and relief distribution across the province. The acquisition directly increases Palawan’s capacity to reach remote areas quickly.
Each ambulance is equipped to provide immediate medical attention during transport. The heavy equipment will assist in clearing debris after typhoons and landslides. Governor Amy Roa Alvarez stressed that these assets represent the government’s duty to be present when people need help most.
A Month‑Long Lineup of Activities
Alili outlined a packed calendar of events running through July. A Static Display with rappelling and skills demonstrations is set for July 11‑12. A DRRM orientation for vulnerable sectors follows on July 16, ensuring that the elderly, children, and persons with disabilities are included in safety planning.
The 7th Provincial Rescue Olympics will challenge local responders on July 20‑22. The month will also feature a full‑scale Capitol lockdown exercise on July 23 and the 1st Auxiliary Rescue Olympics on July 27‑29. A Stakeholders’ Night will cap the observance with awards and recognition on July 28.
Building a Culture of Readiness
The series of events is designed to move beyond government offices and into barangays. By involving schools, vulnerable sectors, and volunteer groups, the PDRRMO aims to foster a culture where every citizen knows what to do before, during, and after emergencies. Preparedness is framed as a shared responsibility.
Alili noted that the province continues to invest not only in equipment but in training. The exercises and orientations are meant to build muscle memory and confidence among responders. The goal is a province where no community is left isolated when calamity strikes.
A Promise to Every Palaweño
The launch of the new assets and the month‑long activities send a clear message: the provincial government is actively preparing for the worst while hoping for the best. Governor Alvarez’s administration has made disaster resilience a cornerstone of its public service, ensuring that Palawan’s islands remain safe havens for all.
