PH to open Asia-Pacific disaster meet Monday; gun ban ordered in NCR

MANILA – The Asia-Pacific Ministerial Conference for Disaster Risk Reduction (APMCDRR) will commence at the Philippine International Convention Center in Pasay City on Monday, gathering governments, international and civil society organizations, the private sector, science, academe and stakeholder groups to strengthen cooperation on disaster resilience and risk reduction.

Hosted by the Philippines for the first time, the APMCDRR will run from Oct. 14 to 18 to advance, monitor, review, and enhance cooperation for the implementation of the goals, targets, and priorities for action of the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015-2030, the global blueprint to prevent new and reduce existing disaster risks.

The biennial event is expected to draw over 4,000 high-level international and local delegates from 69 countries, convened by the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction, and facilitate the exchange of practical solutions, promote inclusive disaster risk governance, and enhance resilience in Asia and the Pacific.

The 2024 conference theme "Surge to 2030: Enhancing Ambition in Asia-Pacific to Accelerate Disaster Risk Reduction" emphasizes the urgency of strengthening regional efforts to ensure a safer future for all.

In anticipation of the international conference and movement of delegates, Malacañang suspended government work and classes in all levels in the cities of Pasay and Manila on Oct. 14 and 15.

Cabinet Secretaries, including Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr., Environment Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo-Loyzaga and Communications Secretary Cesar Chavez are expected to grace the opening day on Monday.

Meanwhile, President Ferdinand R. Marcos will host a Ministerial Reception at Malacañang Palace in Manila on Monday evening.

The President will then lead the grand opening ceremony on Tuesday.

Marcos has been championing disaster resilience and risk reduction under his administration, emphasizing the Philippines' vulnerability to natural disasters and calamity due to its location and climate change.

Meanwhile, the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) on Sunday ordered the implementation of a gun ban in Metro Manila for the duration of the meet.

"Only members of the PNP, AFP (Armed Forces of the Philippines) and other law enforcement agencies who are performing official duties and wearing their agency-prescribed uniforms will be allowed to carry firearms," the NCRPO said in a statement. (PNA)