Parish Disaster Response Teams undergo Disaster Risk Reduction training, focusing on climate change and emergency response

By Tere Esmeralda-Medina

NAGA CITY — The Archdiocese of Caceres through Caritas-Caceres (Naga) Inc., the social action arm of the Archdiocese, has organized a series of orientation seminars on Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (DRRM), Climate Change adaptation (CCA) and Emergency Response for the clergy and parish volunteers. This aims to better equip the Parish Disaster Response (PaDRe) Teams during calamities. 

Themed “Serving Safely, Responding Faithfully", the first of the series of orientation seminars was held last April 20-21 at the Caritas Caceres Development Center in Cadlan, Pili, Camarines Sur. It was attended by fifty-six parish priests. 

Resource speakers for the initial seminar include representatives from the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Offices (MDRRMO) of Calabanga, Mr. Abalayan and Mr. Arnold M. Ignacio of Magarao, who shared local government perspectives on hazard assessment, early warning systems and coordinated emergency response. Mr. Emerson L. Bergonio, a professor at the Central Bicol State University of Agriculture (CBSUA), also provided technical input on climate change adaptation and community-based resilience.

The seminar highlighted the vital role of parishes as centers of safety, coordination and pastoral care during emergencies. Participants were introduced to practical tools such as risk mapping, contingency planning and parish-based DRRM structures.

Anchored on the Church’s social teachings and the call to care for creation, the initiative underscores the importance of coordinated action between parishes, local government units and humanitarian partners. It also aligns with the Archdiocese’s broader thrust of shared responsibility and active participation among clergy and lay leaders in responding to emerging social and environmental challenges. 

Through Fr. Erwin B. Bismonte, Executive Director of Caritas-Caceres, organizers expressed hope that this seminar training would lead to concrete parish DRRM plans and stronger collaboration between the Church, local government units and community stakeholders to better serve those most vulnerable. 

The rest of the series will be held on April 23-25, May 7-9, May 14-16, and May 21-23.