Distrito’s proposed ordinance seeks to elevate Bacolod DRRMO into full department

July 28, 2025

In compliance with the directives and national standards set by the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council, Department of Budget and Management, Department of Interior and Local Government, and Civil Service Commission Joint Memorandum Circular No. 2014-1, Councilor Atty. Caesar Distrito has filed a proposed ordinance seeking to elevate the Bacolod City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (BCDRRMO) under the Office of the Mayor into a full-fledged department.

The ordinance—co-authored by Councilors Celia Flor and Em Ang—aims to expand the organizational structure and staffing of the office, enhance its operational capacity and align it with national standards. This is also a proactive move to strengthen Bacolod’s disaster preparedness and emergency response capabilities.

“With Bacolod’s growing population and vulnerability to natural disasters, it’s crucial that we institutionalize a stronger, better-equipped, and fully staffed DRRM Department that can respond swiftly and efficiently to emergencies,” said Councilor Distrito.

The measure establishes BCDRRMD and outlines clearly the three divisions which are administration and training, research and planning, and operations and warning. It also creates new plantilla positions—including a City Government Department Head—to ensure professionalized and permanent leadership in disaster management.

“This is a forward-looking investment in the safety and resilience of our people. A dedicated DRRM Department will improve response times, coordination, and planning,” Councilor Flor emphasized.

Councilor Ang also highlighted the need for a stronger structure in anticipation of more frequent climate-related hazards: “We must act now to build a system that is both responsive and anticipatory. This ordinance brings us closer to that goal.”

The proposed ordinance also aligns with RA 10121 or the Philippine Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Act of 2010 and supports Bacolod’s vision of becoming a disaster-resilient city.

The Sangguniang Panlungsod is expected to deliberate on the measure in its upcoming sessions.* (ACZD)