LAPU-LAPU CITY — The Cebu Provincial Government gathered local government leaders, national agencies, and disability advocacy groups at the Hoops Dome in Lapu-Lapu City on Friday, July 31, for the Cebu Disability-Inclusive Disaster Risk Reduction (DiDRR) Summit, to bridge the critical gaps that the most vulnerable often face the highest risks in times of crises.
Cebu Governor Pamela Baricuatro emphasized that true disaster resilience requires comprehensive inclusion. "This reflects our belief that disaster preparedness must include everyone, especially persons with disabilities, who deserve equal protection, participation, and opportunities to lead," Baricuatro stated.
Organized in observance of National Disaster Resilience Month, the landmark event aimed to transform how local disaster risk reduction and management (DRRM) offices approach emergency planning—shifting PWDs from being passive recipients of aid to active leaders in disaster strategy.
Disasters do not affect everyone equally. Globally and locally, PWDs encounter unique, life-threatening hurdles when emergencies strike: From inaccessible evacuation centers and un-adapted early warning systems to physical barriers during emergency evacuations, Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) frequently encounter disproportionate challenges during natural disasters.
Traditional sirens or voice announcements often fail to reach those with hearing impairments, while visual alerts may not aid those with visual disabilities. Standard transport vehicles and evacuation routes rarely accommodate wheelchairs or specialized mobility equipment.
Many temporary shelters lack accessible restrooms, ramps, and dedicated medical support for specialized needs. Without PWD representation in policy design, emergency protocols often overlook crucial necessities like medical devices, service animals, and specialized communication methods.
Addressing these issues directly, the summit focused on embedding disability-inclusive policies into municipal disaster management frameworks, ensuring PWDs are directly involved across all phases: planning, preparedness, response, and recovery.
"Disaster resilience is a continuing responsibility that calls on all of us to remain prepared, work together, and ensure that our people, especially the most vulnerable, are protected," Lapu-Lapu City Mayor Cindi King Chan highlighted the urgency of keeping vulnerable populations front and center in emergency policy decisions. Chan thanked the provincial government for prioritizing the initiative.
The summit saw strong participation from local leadership and key government agencies, demonstrating a united front toward building more resilient, inclusive communities. Notable officials in attendance included Shalaine Lucero, Regional Director, Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD); Manuel Santiago, Mayor of Pilar; Nelin Belciña-Tambis, Mayor of Dalaguete; and Verna Magallon, Vice Mayor of Alegria.
By aligning local policies with
disability-inclusive standards, the summit marks a decisive step toward
ensuring that when the next disaster hits, Cebu's emergency response leaves no
one behind. (Photos: Capitol PIO)
