UNICEF Philippines, in partnership with the Provincial Government of Lanao del Sur and key agencies, is making significant progress in strengthening disaster preparedness across local communities. Through the initiative “Building Community Resilience and Delivery of Essential Services for Post-Conflict Recovery in Lanao del Sur and Marawi City”—co-funded by the European Union—local disaster risk reduction and management (DRRM) efforts are being enhanced at the grassroots level.

A major component of the project involves assisting local government units (LGUs) in enhancing their Local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Plans (LDRRMPs). From April 21 to 25, 2025, the fourth batch of Local DRRM Plan Enhancement Workshop was held at N-Hotel in Cagayan de Oro City.

The event was spearheaded by UNICEF Philippines and the Provincial Government of Lanao del Sur through its Provincial DRRM Office. It was conducted in collaboration with the Ministry of the Interior and Local Government, Bangsamoro READi, the Provincial Health Office, and the Integrated Provincial Health Office. The five-day workshop brought together officials from seven LGUs: Balabagan, Kapatagan, Marogong, Pagayawan, Pualas, Sultan Dumalondong, and Tugaya.

Participants included Local DRRM Officers, Municipal Planning and Development Coordinators, Budget Officers, Social Welfare Officers, and Health Officers. The training focused on integrating health-based strategies into disaster planning to boost preparedness, reduce risks, and foster long-term resilience. A key focus was ensuring that vulnerable groups—especially children—are considered and protected in every stage of disaster risk planning.