The Pampanga Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council, chaired by Governor Lilia Pineda (right), approves Resolution No. 2, allowing the use of a ₱90-million trust fund to boost the province’s preparedness for potential man-made disasters and economic disruptions linked to global tensions and rising oil prices. (Pampanga PIO)
CITY OF SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga — The Pampanga Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (PDRRMC) approved the utilization of a ₱90-million trust fund to boost the province’s preparedness for potential man-made disasters and economic disruptions linked to global tensions and rising oil prices.
Its approval was formalized through PDRRMC Resolution No. 2 during the council’s first quarterly meeting.
This amount forms part of the council’s accumulated trust fund from the previous year and will support the provincial government’s disaster preparedness and response initiatives.
In addition, the council noted that another ₱60 million from earlier trust funds remains available and may be tapped to augment resources for emergency response and preparedness activities.
PDRRMC Chair and Governor Lilia Pineda said the funding support is crucial as the province prepares for the possible economic and social effects of instability in the Middle East, particularly the potential spike in global oil prices.
“We need additional funds now because of the crisis we are facing in the Middle East. This will be a big help. The crisis we are confronting is not a typhoon or flood—it is a different kind of disaster that affects not only us but the entire world,” Pineda pressed.
She explained that the provincial government must ensure sufficient resources are readily available to assist Kapampangans who may be affected by disruptions in fuel supply, transportation, and basic services.
“We must study how we can survive and respond effectively because this situation could impact our economy and the daily lives of our people,” the local chief executive furthered.
As part of efforts to mitigate the impact of rising fuel prices and conserve energy, the Provincial Capitol has also implemented a four-day work week for provincial government offices by virtue of Executive Order No. 03 series of 2026.
Under this, provincial government employees will work from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM from Monday to Thursday, while ensuring public services remain uninterrupted.
Pineda emphasized that disaster preparedness today goes beyond responding to natural hazards and must also include planning for economic and supply chain disruptions.
The provincial government remains committed to ensuring resources are available to respond quickly to emerging challenges and to protect the welfare of Kapampangans during times of crisis. (Marie Joy S. Carbungco, PIA Region 3-Pampanga)