PICC, Pasay City
October 15, 2024
“Across the Asia-Pacific region, nations like ours grapple with similar trials. We share a common struggle: navigating the balance between continued economic growth and dealing with the ever-present threat of disasters… As we convene for the 2024 Asia-Pacific Ministerial Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction, we find ourselves at a critical juncture,” conveyed President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. when he keynoted the opening ceremony of the Asia-Pacific Ministerial Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction (APMCDRR) 2024 at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) in Pasay City.
“With the theme, ‘Surge to 2030: Enhancing ambition in Asia-Pacific to accelerate disaster risk reduction,’ we are now called to lead the global effort to reduce disaster and climate risks, protect our people and build sustainable economies,” the President underscored in his remarks, enumerating key steps in achieving the goals laid out under the ‘Surge to 2030.’
First is the need to significantly increase investments and develop financing mechanisms in disaster risk reduction. This helps ensure that developing countries are provided greater access to resources to advance their policies and build disaster resilience. On this note, he announced the Philippines’ acceptance of the role as the steward of the Board of the Fund for responding to Loss and Damage, reiterating the country’s commitment as a climate champion and optimism towards a Fund that will benefit vulnerable countries.
Next is embracing inclusion—as building stronger societies requires addressing the needs of the most vulnerable—and acknowledging that climate change and disasters are catalysts for human displacement.
Likewise, the Chief Executive noted the crucial importance of innovation at the heart of strategy, stressing further that advancements in technology, data analytics and early warning systems can revolutionize disaster preparedness and response.
He also pointed out that coordination and collaboration serve as cornerstones for a whole-of-nation approach, saying that engaging all stakeholders ensures that nations are collectively identifying the needs, addressing the gaps and anticipating the risks ahead.
Apart from these, he stressed that fostering an open dialogue is essential in bringing sectors together, promoting both convergence and coherence in the effort to reduce disaster risk. He highlighted the engagement of the private sector, particularly in advancing investments and practices in environmental, social and governance areas.
Underscoring the significance of advocating for stronger international legal frameworks that guide disaster prevention and response, President Marcos Jr. proudly shared that the Philippines is leading the initiative towards developing an international legal instrument for the Protection of Persons in the Event of Disasters—an endeavor which aims to fill critical gaps in international disaster response laws, uphold the rights and dignity of affected persons, establish clearer obligations and enhance humanitarian coordination.
“As we chart our course to a more inclusive and resilient Asia-Pacific, let us draw inspiration from the stories of resilience that are embedded in our region… This conference presents us with a grand opportunity to send a powerful message to the world: The Asia-Pacific is not only prepared to overcome the trials of tomorrow—we are also ready to lead in disaster risk reduction and climate action,” President Marcos Jr. further expressed in his message.
Hosted by the Government of the Philippines, in partnership with the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR) beginning 14 October to 18 October 2024, the APMCDRR serves as the main platform in Asia and the Pacific in monitoring, reviewing and enhancing cooperation for the implementation of the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015-2030 — the global blueprint for preventing and reducing new and existing disaster risks in the world’s most disaster-prone regions.
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