ANGARA RENEWS CALL FOR IMPROVED DISASTER PREPAREDNESS

Senator Edgardo J. Angara expressed his deep sympathy for the victims of tropical storm Sendong, and reiterated the need for more effective disaster risk reduction measures in the Philippines, especially since the country is one of the most calamity-prone in the world.

"I am deeply saddened by the escalating death toll and destruction caused by Sendong. Let us heed the warning brought by the recent spate of calamities," said Angara, emphasizing that the Philippines must adopt a new strategy in preparing for disasters to prevent the loss of lives.

Angara, chair of the Senate Committee on Science and Technology and Congressional Commission on Science and Technology, and Engineering (COMSTE), said the country must focus on emergency medicine, disaster science research and the provision of more rescue equipment.

Angara has been working with the Hyogo Prefecture in Japan to establish a disaster training center in the country. He is likewise pushing for the institutionalization of emergency medicine in the country.

He stressed developing a high overall level of preparedness against disaster requires the cooperation of all government agencies. Partnerships with local governments must be developed, and training and planning for emergency response provided.

"Preventing threats to the well-being of the public is a continuing challenge. As a nation, we need to be ready to respond immediately and swiftly if and when our people's lives are in danger," said Angara.