Title
National Disaster Consciousness Month and Civil Defense Deputization
Law
Executive Order No. 137
Decision Date
Aug 10, 1999
An executive order declares the month of July as National Disaster Consciousness Month in the Philippines, aiming to increase awareness and preparedness for natural and man-made disasters through comprehensive programs and coordination at all levels of government.
A

Expansion of Scope and Duration

  • The original observance was the first week of July as Natural Disaster Consciousness Week.
  • The observance period is lengthened from one week to one month.
  • The scope extends beyond natural disasters to include man-made disasters and other emergencies.
  • This extension allows national and local government units more time for comprehensive disaster awareness campaigns.

Strengthening Disaster Coordinating Councils

  • Emphasizes the need to empower Disaster Coordinating Councils at national, regional, and local levels.
  • Focuses on ensuring a coherent, integrated, proficient, and responsive emergency management system.

Institutionalization of the Civil Defense Deputization Program

  • Introduces the Civil Defense Deputization Program at the local government level.
  • Designates dedicated personnel from local government units (LGUs) as Civil Defense Deputized Coordinators (also called Tanggol Patrols).
  • The designation is made by the Chairman of the National Disaster Coordinating Council (NDCC).
  • These coordinators are responsible for initiating and coordinating civil protection and disaster management programs using a multi-sectoral approach.
  • Deputized Coordinators also act as Executive Officers of Local Disaster Coordinating Councils.

Roles and Authority of Disaster Coordinating Councils

  • The NDCC, Regional Disaster Coordinating Councils, and Local Disaster Coordinating Councils are mandated to implement programs and activities under this Executive Order.
  • The NDCC serves as the overall coordinator for these efforts.
  • The NDCC is empowered to require assistance from any department, agency, office, or instrumentality of the government to perform its functions effectively.

Effectivity

  • The Executive Order took effect immediately upon signing.

Legal and Policy Implications

  • Reinforces local autonomy by deputizing LGU personnel as key focal points for disaster management.
  • Promotes a sustained, integrated approach toward disaster preparedness and response at all government levels.
  • Encourages multi-sectoral coordination in implementing disaster risk reduction measures.
  • Enhances national disaster management capacity through institutionalized programs and observances.

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