The DILG-NCR, in partnership with DOST-NCR and Catholic Relief Services (CRS) Philippines, successfully conducted the 2nd Tangguyob: Quarterly Convergence of Disaster Thematic Pillars on August 14, 2024, at Crowne Plaza, Quezon City. This gathering brought together Local Disaster Risk Reduction Management Officers, Local Planning and Development Officers, Local Social Welfare Development Officers, and partner stakeholders to discuss innovative approaches and achievements aligned with the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Plan (NDRRMP). 

Building on the positive feedback from the inaugural Tangguyob, which effectively engaged and organized disaster preparedness partners and stakeholders, the Metro Manila Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council (MMDRRMC) agreed during its Second Full Council Meeting on June 19, 2024, that the Disaster Thematic Pillars would convene a month before each full council meeting. The Tangguyob now serves as the official platform for these quarterly meetings, following the successful format and concept established in its first convergence.

The 2nd Tangguyob provided a venue for DOST-NCR, DSWD-NCR, and CRS Philippines to collaborate with DILG-NCR in convening the Disaster Risk Reduction Management Thematic Pillars. This convergence focused on aligning DRRM initiatives and measures with the NDRRMP 2020-2030 and preparing for the formulation of the Regional Disaster Risk Reduction Management Plan.

During the event, CRS Philippines launched Project THRIVE (Transforming Households and Local Organization Capacities for a Resilient and Vibrant Urban Ecosystem), aimed at empowering vulnerable stakeholders and households in at-risk communities to manage, anticipate, recover, and adapt to multi-hazard risks.

The Disaster Thematic Pillar meeting included a timely discussion by DBM-NCR on the Local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Fund (LDRRMF), particularly relevant as the region is under a State of Calamity. Participants were provided with an overview of the legal basis of the LDRRMF, including Republic Act No. 10121 and NDRRMC-DBM-DILG JMC No. 2013-1, and were briefed on the policies, procedures, and reporting requirements for fund utilization.

Following the inaugural showcase of Quezon City and Pasig City, Makati City and Mandaluyong City were selected to present their innovations in disaster preparedness. Makati City introduced their “Journey Towards #Resilient Makati,” which is anchored on three guiding principles: Systems Approach, Partnership for Resource and Technical Expertise, and Making Resilience a Way of Life in Makati. Mandaluyong City presented “Project MENCHIE” (Mandaluyong Enhanced Monitoring of Natural Hazards and Climate for Household Information and Education), an early warning system that provides users with vital information such as warning maps, barangay analysis reports, and climate outlooks.

DILG-NCR highlighted its accomplishments over the past seven months across various outcome areas, showcasing the iDRRM4LGUs System under the Preparedness Thematic Pillar. This system monitors the preparedness levels, actions, and measures undertaken by LGUs, covering Plans, Advocacies, Trainings, Investments, and Simulation Activities (PATIS).

In the Prevention and Mitigation Thematic Pillar session, DOST-PAGASA discussed impact-based forecasting and its communication to target audiences, while DOST-PHIVOLCS shared insights on the GeoRiskPH Integrated Platforms and their monitoring of volcanoes, earthquakes, and tsunamis. DPWH-NCR provided updates on disaster prevention and mitigation projects, focusing on the structural strengthening of national bridges and buildings through retrofitting.

Lastly, DSWD-NCR, presiding over the Disaster Response Thematic Pillar meeting, provided a comprehensive discussion on “Humanitarian Supply Chain Management” in response to Typhoon Carina. OCD-NCR offered secretariat services for each thematic pillar meeting, guiding agencies and LGUs on aligning their programs, projects, and activities with the NDRRMP.

Tangguyob has evolved from a quarterly meeting into a dynamic platform where partner agencies collaborate with local government units and civil society organizations to enhance disaster risk reduction and management measures. This convergence ensures that initiatives are aligned with the goals of the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Plan (2020-2030), fostering a more resilient and prepared Metro Manila.