Typhoon Odette Commemoration Event in Lapu-Lapu City [Philippines]
On December 16th, in commemoration of the second anniversary of Typhoon Odette (international name: Rai), a Typhoon Odette Commemoration Event was held showcasing the efforts done by the local government unit (LGU) and City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO) in response to the typhoon as well as the launching of the “Opong Andam” Mascot which will be a symbol of the city’s resilience. This took place at the Hoops Dome, Lapu-Lapu City with SEEDS Asia supporting the planning of this event.
Typhoon Odette struck the Philippines on December 16, 2021, causing around 400 fatalities. From the experience of the “Oponganon” (people of Lapu-Lapu City), the typhoon escalated to Maximum sustained winds of 195km/h in a matter of 12 hours. The number of affected homes surpassed that of Typhoon Yolanda (international name: Haiyan) in 2013. SEEDS Asia conducted a response project, funded by the Japan Platform (JPF), for schools affected within Cebu and Mactan Islands.
The commemoration event for Typhoon Odette was organized by DRR experts in Lapu-Lapu City who recognized the importance of commemoration of past disasters, drawing inspiration from the Typhoon Yolanda Commemoration Event conducted by the Department of Education Regional Office VII on November 8th. The event was attended by representatives from the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), Office of Civil Defense (OCD), community members represented by the urban poor associations, and school learners.
SEEDS Asia hopes that Initiatives like this event, aimed at preventing the fading of memories of past disasters, are becoming ingrained in the Philippines, leading to contributions to strengthening DRR for future disasters.
