DAVAO ORIENTAL – To address the need for disaster preparedness and response at the grassroots level, the provincial government of Davao Oriental has turned over 50 units of Custom Built Barangay Emergency Rescue Vehicles to the beneficiary barangays primarily situated in the Geographically Isolated and Disadvantaged Areas (GIDAs).
During the turn-over ceremony on Saturday, June 11, 2022, at the Tourism Complex, Governor Nelson L. Dayanghirang told the Punong Barangays of the recipient barangays to use the vehicles for their constituents.
Governor Dayanghirang, the chairperson of the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council (PDRRMC), said these vehicles will be helpful, especially in areas far from the town center.
These units, said the Governor, will be donated to the recipient barangays. This means that the barangays will have full ownership of the vehicles.
“Every life is a priority – each life is precious, so I request all of you [beneficiary barangays] to take good care of these vehicles while using them to the fullest for all your concerns in the barangays. Aside from emergencies, it can also be used by the tanods to ensure the safety, security, and order in the community,” the Governor added.
Joinel Nalla, the Superior Motor Corporation Branch Manager, oriented the barangay to the features of the vehicles. He said the vehicles are specially designed for GIDA terrains. “One of the vehicles’ highlights is its wings which can carry a maximum of 2 tons to climb elevated grounds and escape the situation such as wheels being buried in the mud.”
Each unit which costs P348,500.00 is equipped with a 4×4 wheel drive, mid-ship mounted searchlight, fire extinguisher, a combat-type seat for direct emergency rescues, medical supplies, spine board, and other special features. These vehicles were acquired through loan proceeds.
Punong Barangay of Barangay Dadong Rizalda S. Mamilic expressed her thanks to the Governor. She said that considering their barangay that is far from the town center of Tarragona, the vehicle answers the needs of the residents in times of emergencies especially during the rainy season and in calamities.
Of the 50 rescue vehicles, 2 of these beneficiary barangays are in the Municipality of Boston, while 4 in Cateel, 11 in Baganga, 8 in Caraga, 10 in Manay, 4 in Tarragona, 4 in Banaybanay, 3 in Lupon, 1 in Governor Generoso, and 3 in the City of Mati.
Also present during the turn-over was Board Member Rustan Castillones, the President of Liga ng mga Barangay Davao Oriental Chapter. Board Member Castillones expressed his happiness and appreciation to the Governor for an impactful project vital in delivering services to the people. By Mark Oliver Alvite
