The City Government of Malaybalay was conferred with the prestigious Gawad KALASAG Seal for Excellence in Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (DRRM) and Humanitarian Assistance during the 23rd awarding ceremony held on December 27, 2023, at the Mallberry Suites Business Hotel in Cagayan de Oro City.

City Mayor Jay Warren R. Pabillaran and Alan J. Comiso, the local DRRM officer, graced the ceremony, representing Malaybalay City and receiving the distinguished plaque on behalf of the city’s commitment to disaster resilience.

Led by the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO), Malaybalay City garnered the distinction of being “Fully Compliant” in the Local DRRM Councils and Offices (LDRRMCO’s) category, receiving plaques of commendation in recognition of their outstanding efforts.

The Gawad KALASAG (GK) awards, a symbol of the nation’s commitment to acknowledging and promoting best practices in DRRM and climate change adaptation, were designed to inspire and motivate stakeholders in their crucial work of safeguarding communities from disasters.

The GK Seal and Special Awards form part of a comprehensive strategy to enhance disaster resilience through an inclusive “whole-of-society” approach. This approach encourages broad participation and equal opportunities for all stakeholders, fostering sustainability and innovation in DRR-CCA practices, as highlighted by the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) Region X.

In addition to the City Government’s recognition, Pat-Pat Elementary School, San Martin Agro-Industrial National High School, and Bukidnon State University were also honored with plaques of recognition in the GK Special Awards. These institutions were lauded for their noteworthy contributions to Disaster Risk Reduction and Management in the categories of Public Elementary School, Public High School, and Higher Education Institution, respectively.

With report: Rennon Polley, CDRRMO-NADA