The Asia-Pacific Ministerial Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction (APMCDRR) 2024, hosted by the Philippines from October 14 to 18 at the Philippine International Convention Center in Pasay City, brings together over 4,000 delegates from across the globe to address one of the most urgent challenges of our time: disaster risk reduction. As a region highly vulnerable to natural calamities, the Asia-Pacific is at the forefront of climate-related disasters, making this event crucial for fostering collaboration, sharing innovative strategies, and strengthening regional and national resilience measures.

This year’s conference is guided by the theme “Surge to 2030: Enhancing Ambition in Asia-Pacific to Accelerate Disaster Risk Reduction,” focusing on accelerating efforts to meet the targets set by the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015-2030. This global agreement aims to reduce disaster-related losses by enhancing risk understanding, governance, and preparedness, as well as improving resilience to future disasters.

Key Themes and High-Level Participation

The APMCDRR 2024 has brought in high-level participation from regional governments, disaster risk reduction experts, private sector leaders, and civil society groups. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. opened the conference, reaffirming the Philippines’ commitment to advancing disaster preparedness and response capabilities. “Our collective action is crucial,” Marcos emphasized, as he called on the region to strengthen its cooperation and capacity-building efforts.

Key officials such as Secretary of National Defense Gilberto Teodoro Jr. and Environment Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo-Loyzaga are spearheading discussions on policy frameworks and climate resilience. The conference will highlight how countries in the Asia-Pacific, including the Philippines, are adopting innovative solutions to mitigate the adverse impacts of climate change. The Philippines’ focus on building disaster-resilient infrastructures, improving early warning systems, and engaging communities will be showcased as models for other countries in the region to follow​ security Measures and Logistical Preparations

Given the magnitude of the event, security has been ramped up throughout Metro Manila. A gun ban has been imposed in the National Capital Region (NCR), starting October 10 and lasting until October 20. This decision aims to safeguard the numerous international and local participants and maintain public order during the event. The National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) has deployed heightened security measures, coordinating closely with local government units and the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) to ensure smooth traffic flow and secure the event’s venues