The Philippine Disaster Resilience Foundation (PDRF) prioritizes disaster preparedness, prevention, and mitigation. While we continue to engage in traditional disaster response activities, we have learned from the devastating impact of Supertyphoon “Yolanda” (internationally known as Haiyan) 10 years ago and understand the importance of preparing airports for large-scale response efforts. We believe in the old saying that “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure,” especially in the world of humanitarian response. Investing in preparedness can save significant resources in the long run.
As part of our efforts, PDRF participates in various disaster preparedness programs, including the “Getting Airports Ready for Disaster” (GARD) program. When Yolanda struck the Philippines in 2013, Tacloban Airport was temporarily shut down, and air cargo and passenger traffic had to be redirected to Mactan-Cebu International Airport. This sudden influx of volume posed challenges for the airport. GARD, an international initiative led by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), Deutsche Post DHL Group, and Airports Council International, aims to help airports prepare for such situations.
During natural disasters like typhoons or earthquakes, cargo and passenger traffic can increase significantly due to inbound humanitarian aid and the arrival of response personnel. This surge in traffic, along with evacuations by residents and tourists, can cause congestion in the air and on the ground around airports. To address this, specialized training and preparation are necessary. Airport staff, supported by civilian and uniformed services, cargo handlers, and airlines, must work together seamlessly to ensure smooth operations during emergencies. This coordination is crucial for the efficient transport of humanitarian cargo and responders to disaster-affected areas, ultimately saving lives.
The GARD program has been running since 2009, and we have collaborated with the UNDP and DHL Group to organize workshops in selected airports across the country. Our goal is to be prepared in multiple airports to ensure that any part of the country can be serviced in case of a supertyphoon or earthquake. Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, we have resumed our efforts and conducted training workshops in Clark International Airport and Laguindingan International Airport. Additional drills and consultations will follow these workshops to further enhance preparedness. Our next target airports are Mactan-Cebu, Ninoy Aquino International Airport, and Iloilo airports.
It is our belief that through these preparations, we can create a more disaster-resilient Philippines.
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