00:00If disaster risk reduction is a no-win situation gamble,
00:03then the Philippines has been at the top of the heap in the Asian continent
00:07in cutting losses from calamities worsened by climate change.
00:11And in today's kickoff of the Asia-Pacific Ministerial Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction,
00:17despite glowing remarks from the UN DRR chief
00:20hailing the country's outstanding and people-centric disaster risk reduction approach,
00:25the president called for reinforced partnerships between all countries and stakeholders
00:30for even more effective mitigation and management of disaster risks linked to climate change
00:36as our Benji Durango reports.
00:40The media is a vital partner on this resilience journey.
00:44The media has been hailed as a crucial partner in building resilience against natural disasters.
00:49This sentiment was echoed at the opening of the five-day 2024 Asia-Pacific Ministerial Conference for Disaster Risk Reduction.
00:57Secretary Loizaga emphasized the significant role of the media
01:00in raising awareness about disaster preparedness and response.
01:04The work you do, whether in print, broadcast, or digital media,
01:08will shape the global conversation around disaster risk reduction.
01:12Defense Secretary Chodoro also urged media outlets to closely follow conference proceedings
01:17and to disseminate key takeaways to the public.
01:20I encourage our media partners to pay special attention to the discussions in the conference
01:29and their coverage will ensure our resonance of the messages and the key points that we agree upon.
01:40Communication Secretary Cesar Chavez also sent a message reminding the media to maintain responsible reporting
01:46which will serve as a guide for the government in responding to any calamity.
01:50He thanked the UNDRR for recognizing the country's efforts in promoting regional responsibility.
01:56We extend our special thanks to the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction
02:01for recognizing our capability to take on this responsibility
02:06and acknowledging our leadership in disaster risk and reduction.
02:11The Philippines, as a member of UNDRR, has been recognized as a watchtower
02:15in the Asia-Pacific region for its leadership in disaster risk reduction.
02:20One of the key topics of discussion at the conference is the disproportionate impact of disasters on women.
02:26The need to address gender equality in disaster-prone areas is becoming increasingly urgent.
02:31With thousands of delegates expected to attend the conference,
02:34authorities have implemented a stringent security measure.
02:37The Philippine National Police has deployed 4,800 personnel to secure the venues
02:42and has temporarily suspended all Bermudes to carry firearms in the National Capital Region.
02:47Benji Durango, from the National TV, for a new and better Philippines.
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