New disaster task force to have FEMA-like functions: Palace

Malacañang said Tuesday the newly-created Disaster Response and Crisis Management Task Force (DRCMTF) would fill in the gap in the disaster response framework of the Philippines, which lacks a single entity solely focused on and dedicated to disaster preparedness and response.

In a statement issued by the Presidential Communications Office (PCO), the new task force would have the same functions as the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) of the United States, which consolidates emergency preparedness, civil defense, and mitigation and disaster response activities, among others.

Marcos signed Executive Order 24 on April 30 creating the Disaster Response and Crisis Management Task Force to ensure a "clear unity of command to lead the government's efforts in confronting challenges brought about by natural disasters through evidence-driven and science-based approach in crisis management."

The task force shall consist of the Office of the Executive Secretary, the departments of national defense, interior and local government, social welfare, health, trade and industry, science and technology, public works, and transportation, as well as the Office of Civil Defense.

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