Tacloban: The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) has reiterated its call to barangay officials in Eastern Visayas to intensify disaster preparedness efforts. During the closing of the three-day Liga ng mga Barangay (LNB) Eastern Visayas Regional Congress 2026 at the Summit Hotel, the DILG-8 (Eastern Visayas) emphasized strengthening grassroots disaster governance and ensuring that communities are equipped to respond effectively to emergencies.

According to Philippines News Agency, DILG-8 Director Arnel Agabe served as a resource speaker, presenting the topic 'Mainstreaming Disaster Preparedness and Operation Listo (alert): Strengthening Barangay Leadership for Resilient Communities.' Operation Listo is an advocacy program of the DILG that aims to strengthen local government units' (LGUs) disaster preparedness through a whole-of-government approach.

'Are our barangays truly prepared for any disaster?' Agabe asked, stressing that preparedness requires clearly defined roles, established procedures, and regular drills to ensure effective implementation. The official emphasized the vital role of villages as first responders in emergencies, pointing out that quick and coordinated responses can greatly influence the results for residents.

Agabe also reiterated DILG's mandate as vice chair for disaster preparedness under the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC), emphasizing Operation Listo as a practical framework for local leaders to organize response structures, enhance coordination, and institutionalize preparedness measures. Operation Listo serves as a guide for LGUs to ensure readiness before, during, and after disasters, aligning local actions with national disaster risk reduction and management policies.

The Feb. 21 to 25 gathering brought together LNB leaders and barangay representatives from across the region to address pressing local governance issues and development priorities.