News

Prime Infra Foundation is strengthening the disaster preparedness capabilities of Rodriguez, Rizal with the donation of an early warning system (EWS) and emergency equipment, highlighting the continued partnership between the private sector and the government to boost community resilience.

During a ceremonial event on February 26, Prime Infra Foundation signed two memorandums of agreement—one with the municipal government of Rodriguez and another with Barangay San Rafael—to formalize the initiative that seeks to enhance their respective disaster risk reduction and management (DRRM) programs.

Under the agreement, the Rodriguez municipal government will receive an EWS consisting of public announcement systems, sirens, CCTV cameras, handheld radios, and repeater systems to improve awareness and ensure coordination among disaster response teams.

For its part, Barangay San Rafael will receive emergency equipment such as trauma bags, reflective clothing, flashlights, life vests, rescue boats, and other tools to support operations and increase resiliency.

To complement the new equipment, personnel from the Rodriguez municipal government will be trained to operate the EWS sirens and public announcement systems, while first responders from Barangay San Rafael will undergo training on the use of the emergency gear.

Rodriguez Mayor Ronnie Evangelista thanked Prime Infra Foundation for its support.

“We need to be prepared for any eventualities. We can only do that by having all these technology and equipment,” he said.

Bernadette Tan, Programs and Operations Head of Prime Infra Foundation, underscored the role of preparedness and collaboration during disasters.

“In moments of uncertainty, timely and accurate information can mean the difference between vulnerability and safety. This partnership embodies our shared responsibility to safeguard communities. It demonstrates what is possible when the public sector and private institutions work together with trust, transparency, and a common purpose,” Tan said.

San Rafael Barangay Captain Judith Cruz emphasized the importance of equipping first responders at the barangay level.

“Barangays are usually the first responders during disasters. We express gratitude to this initiative. The equipment will greatly benefit our barangay,” Cruz said. Other officials present during the ceremonial signing were Rizal 4th District Board Member Rafhael Ayuson who attended on behalf of Rizal Governor Nina Ynares, Rodriguez Municipal Administrator Atty. Jojo Manahan, Rodriguez MDRRMO Head Engr. Pedro Orogo, Jr., Prime Infra Sustainability Senior Manager Abby Bonita, WawaJVCo Government Affairs and Public Relations Head Aprille Tess Adis, and WawaJVCo HSE Manager Oniel Reyes.