The Philippine government has officially approved a long-term strategy aimed at transforming the country’s urban search and rescue (USAR) operations over the next decade, signaling a major step toward improving disaster preparedness and emergency response nationwide.
The Office of Civil Defense (OCD) announced that the newly approved Search and Rescue Strategic Plan 2026–2036 will serve as the country’s unified framework for handling large-scale rescue missions during natural disasters and other emergencies. The plan was finalized during a meeting at the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) Operations Center in Quezon City.
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Designed by the Philippine Urban Search and Rescue National Accreditation Body (USAR-NAB), the roadmap seeks to modernize rescue systems, improve coordination among agencies, and establish standardized procedures for responders across the country.
Superintendent Robert M. Pacis, operations director of the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) and chair of the USAR-NAB committee, said the initiative aims to strengthen the nation’s rescue capabilities.
“The strategic plan, which secured committee approval, aims to standardize and enhance the country’s SAR capabilities,” Pacis said.
The strategy brings together key government agencies, including the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA), Philippine Navy, Philippine Army, Philippine Air Force, and disaster management offices from several local governments such as Pasig, Makati, and Olongapo.
A Unified Disaster Response System
One of the major goals of the 10-year plan is to eliminate fragmented rescue operations that often slow down response efforts during emergencies. Instead of agencies operating independently with different protocols, the framework establishes a common operational standard for all rescue units nationwide.
The plan outlines systems for:
- Coordinated rescue operations
- Standardized training programs
- Efficient deployment of equipment and resources
- Improved communication among agencies
- Faster emergency response during critical situations
The Philippines regularly faces destructive typhoons, earthquakes, floods, volcanic eruptions, and maritime incidents, making disaster preparedness a national priority. Government officials emphasized that having a pre-approved operational framework can significantly reduce delays during the crucial first hours after a disaster strikes.
Lessons from Past Disasters
The initiative also reflects lessons learned from previous catastrophes, particularly Super Typhoon Yolanda (Haiyan) in 2013, which remains one of the deadliest storms in Philippine history. The disaster claimed more than 6,000 lives, displaced millions, and exposed gaps in coordination and emergency response systems.
According to the OCD, the strategic plan will help prevent confusion regarding command structures, equipment allocation, and agency responsibilities during future emergencies.
Beyond local operations, the plan also aligns Philippine rescue standards with international protocols established by the International Search and Rescue Advisory Group (INSARAG), a United Nations-affiliated network focused on global disaster response.
This alignment could make it easier for the Philippines to receive international assistance during major disasters and potentially deploy accredited Filipino rescue teams abroad for humanitarian missions.
Next Steps for Approval
Following committee approval, the strategic plan will move through higher levels of government review, including endorsement to OCD Administrator and NDRRMC Executive Director Undersecretary Harold Cabreros. Final approval will come from Department of National Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr., who chairs the NDRRMC.
The OCD said the initiative “reflects a unified government effort to build a more prepared and resilient Philippines, ensuring responders are guided by a clear strategic direction over the next decade.”
Source: ManilaBulletin
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