Zamboanga Sibugay Highlights Disaster Response Readiness in Rescuelympics Region IX

Daphne Santuyo

Ipil, Zamboanga Sibugay- The Province of Zamboanga Sibugay showcased its commitment to disaster preparedness and emergency response as its delegation joined the Rescuelympics Region IX held in the Municipality of Liloy, Zamboanga del Norte.

Led by Acting Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Officer (PDRRMO) Rodel Tubigon, the Zamboanga Sibugay delegation participated in the regional gathering alongside disaster responders, emergency management practitioners, and disaster risk reduction stakeholders from across the Zamboanga Peninsula.

The activity brought together Local Chief Executives, Provincial and Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Officers (PDRRMOs and MDRRMOs), emergency response teams, and partner agencies in a venue designed to enhance rescue capabilities, strengthen coordination, and promote a culture of preparedness among local responders.

The Rescuelympics Region IX was graced by Office of Civil Defense (OCD) Administrator Undersecretary Harold N. Cabreros, OCD Region IX Regional Director Ruel S. Halanes, officials from the OCD Central Office, and other key disaster management stakeholders, highlighting the government’s continuing commitment to building stronger and more resilient communities.

Hosted by the Municipality of Liloy under the leadership of Mayor Joel D. Uy, the event featured various rescue scenarios and emergency response challenges that tested the technical skills, operational readiness, teamwork, and decision-making abilities of participating teams.

For Zamboanga Sibugay, the activity served as an opportunity to demonstrate the province’s continuing efforts to strengthen its disaster response mechanisms through training, capacity-building, and collaboration among local government units and emergency response organizations.

Acting PDRRMO Rodel Tubigon emphasized that the Rescuelympics goes beyond competition, as it strengthens camaraderie, improves coordination among local government units and response agencies, and promotes the continuous enhancement of rescue competencies needed in saving lives during emergencies and disasters.

He also underscored that the successful conduct of the regional event reflects the shared commitment of the Office of Civil Defense and its partner agencies to developing capable, disciplined, and highly trained emergency responders who are prepared to protect lives and properties during times of crisis.

Meanwhile, the Municipality of Liloy officially opened the National Rescuelympics, welcoming rescue teams and disaster responders from different parts of the country for a nationwide showcase of excellence in rescue operations, emergency response, and disaster preparedness.

The national event features a series of challenges designed to test participants’ knowledge, skills, teamwork, and operational readiness through realistic emergency response situations. More than a competition, the activity aims to promote professionalism, collaboration, innovation, and continuous learning among the country’s disaster responders.

The participation of the Zamboanga Sibugay delegation reflects the province’s commitment to strengthening disaster resilience and ensuring that its emergency responders remain equipped, trained, and ready to respond effectively to emergencies and disasters.