MANILA, Philippines — The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) has created an interim office that will oversee the agency’s disaster and emergency response efforts. The Metropolitan Public Safety Office (MPSO) will integrate all MMDA units that are undertaking similar functions or tasks related to disaster and emergency preparedness and response. The office will also lead the establishment of sectionalized disaster and emergency response units, particularly the Central, North, South, East, and West sectors. It is also the office’s duty to “provide timely information regarding monitored disasters, hazards, and emergencies” to concerned officials, responders and stakeholders. The office will also promote and implement disaster preparedness trainings at the community level to increase their level of awareness and equip them with the needed skills and capability to cope with threats and impacts of disasters.

Source: Philippine Daily Inquirer July 15, 2019 09:00 UTC