The Office of Civil Defense (OCD), in partnership with SM Supermalls, is stepping up its “Panatag Pilipinas” risk communications campaign in a continued quest for resilience.

Originally started last November as an online advocacy, the Panatag Pilipinas campaign that features bite-sized videos of practical tips for disaster management, will now be shown at SM Supermalls – the country’s largest shopping chain and a member of private sector network ARISE Philippines.

SM is extending full support to the information drive, developed by the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council, through the OCD, and with support from the World Bank and the Global Facility for Disaster Reduction and Recovery.

The OCD acknowledged that malls are strategic venues for public engagement and information dissemination, and collaborating with SM Supermalls will further optimize its information drive.

In his keynote address during the Panatag Pilipinas launch at the SM Mall of Asia earlier today, OCD officer-in-charge Assistant Secretary Bernardo Rafaelito R. Alejandro IV highlighted the need to boost awareness on disaster risks with the Philippines’ increasing vulnerability to natural hazards.

“Time is of the essence, and it is crucial for us to reach as many people as possible,” Alejandro said. “Our sincerest thanks to ARISE PH and SM Supermalls for helping us bridge disaster information gaps.”

For his part, OCD Disaster Preparedness Service Director Caesar Agnir Jr. assured their partners of their commitment to lead the expansion of the Panatag Pilipinas campaign.
“This Panatag Pilipinas campaign is a major tool to enhance understanding of disaster and climate risks, especially in the basic unit of society – the family,” Agnir said. “Thank you for your steadfast dedication to boost disaster preparedness by mobilizing resources, expanding outreach, and fostering innovation to complement the government’s efforts.”
The OCD officials are optimistic that in synergy with the private and civil society sectors, heightened awareness will soon turn into action.

“Muscle memory can truly save lives,” Alejandro added. “Together, let us build a resilient Philippines through an informed citizenry.”///with details from charm albacite of OCD