President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. underscored the critical importance of disaster preparedness as the Philippines marked the 11th anniversary of Typhoon Yolanda, known globally as Typhoon Haiyan. The call comes as the nation, recognized as the most disaster-prone in the world, faces increasing risks from natural calamities.
According to the 2024 World Risk Report, the Philippines leads the list of countries most vulnerable to natural disasters, ahead of Indonesia, India, Colombia, and Mexico. President Marcos highlighted this stark reality, stating, “As the most disaster-prone country in the world, we cannot do otherwise. We do not have the luxury of ignorance, inaction, and complacency.”
Marcos urged the public to focus on both mitigation and adaptation to climate change challenges, emphasizing the need to minimize the country’s vulnerability. “We must empower our communities and strengthen our local government units, who both comprise our first line of defense against calamities,” he said, adding that swift delivery of aid and relief is essential for those affected by disasters.
Reflecting on the catastrophic impact of Typhoon Yolanda, which claimed 6,300 lives, injured around 28,000, left more than 1,000 missing, and displaced over 3 million families, Marcos reminded citizens of the lessons learned. “The recent Typhoons Kristine and Leon remind us that the powerful lessons from Yolanda should not be lost with the passage of time. Heeding these is the best way to honor the lives lost,” he remarked.
Yolanda remains the strongest typhoon to make landfall globally, serving as a somber benchmark for the need for ongoing vigilance and action in disaster risk management.
