VICE Mayor Genaro Mendoza expressed optimism that Tarlac City is now more prepared for any disaster that may occur in the future. He made this statement following the conclusion on Thursday of a three-day disaster preparedness seminar workshop among barangay (village) and Sangguniang Kabataan officials held in Boracay, Aklan. Mendoza said although the wrath of nature is hard to predict and counter, people could be equipped with knowledge on how to prevent more serious effects of certain disasters. 'We need to discuss these concerns, and my emotion was struck with the theme of the activity about preparedness in times of calamity and disasters, as well as climate change,' said Mendoza, who graced the event. 'As I said, the key to ensure the safety of the people remains in the village officials' hands, and there is no room to be complacent in all situations,' he added. He also voiced his regret for the loss of lives and properties caused by the recent earthquake that rocked most parts of Luzon, which happened in the middle of the training. Discussions during the team alignment seminar workshop included Community Based Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Plan Formulation, Barangay Development Council 2021 Audit, and Annual Budget Youth Investment Program Formulation. Engineer Robert Diola of the Department of the Interior and Local Government-Tarlac City, city disaster risk reduction and management officer Hensel Quilling, and engineer Michelle Rivera of the Local Youth Development Office served as speakers.
