OCD and NEXT GEN forge tie up to boost disaster response

THE Office of Civil Defense (OCD) received a boost from the civilian sector in its disaster response initiatives with the signing of a memorandum of agreement on Tuesday.

OCD will get assistance from Next Generation Advocate Foundation PH Inc. (NEXT GEN) in terms of relief goods for disaster and emergency victims as recommended by the agency.

NEXT GEN, a nonprofit organization supporting Philippine communities through disaster relief and sustainable development initiatives in partnership with both the public and private sectors, will also assist in other projects and activities related to response efforts.

Signatories of the agreement were OCD Administrator Undersecretary Ariel Nepomuceno and NEXT GEN treasurer and representative Princess Go.

“We have to help the younger generation understand the importance of preparedness and the need for a reliable system in the event of major calamities,” Nepomuceno, who noted the positive impact of the agreement, particularly on the younger generation of Filipinos, said.

Go added the partnership is “more than just an agreement on paper,” citing the spirit of “resilience, compassion, bayanihan, and a shared commitment to be there for our communities.”

“May this collaboration be a beacon of hope for those who need it most and may our collective effort pave the way for a safer, more resilient Philippines,” she said.

Witnesses to the signing were Deputy Administrators of Civil Defense Assistant Secretary Bernardo Rafaelito Alejandro, Assistant Secretary Hernando Caraig Jr., Assistant Secretary Markus Lacanilao, and Director of Rehabilitation and Recovery Management Service Harold Cabreros.