Tuesday, July 22, 2025

Duty Beyond Holidays: Life of a DRR Officer in Times of Emergency


In a world that is constantly tested by natural calamities and human-induced hazards, the work of a Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) Officer is never bound by the ordinary clock, nor by the comfort of holidays. While most people look forward to weekends and rest days, our reality is different. As DRR Officers, we are governed not only by our passion to serve but also by official memorandum directives and circulars that mandate our readiness and presence—especially in emergency situations. We are duty-bound to respond anytime, even on holidays, because disasters do not wait for regular working hours.

My work as a DRR Officer is rooted in a deep sense of public service and preparedness. Whether it’s monitoring an approaching typhoon, coordinating evacuation efforts, conducting risk assessments, or joining relief distribution, my days are filled with urgency and responsibility. The directives are clear: those working in disaster response must always be on call, must ensure visibility in the field, and must lead operations when our communities are at risk. This is not just a job—it is a commitment to safeguard lives, properties, and the future of our municipality.

It’s not always easy. There are days when I miss family gatherings, church Sundays, quiet meals, and even personal rest. But seeing children safely evacuated, families fed and sheltered, and communities empowered makes every sacrifice worth it. I’ve learned to find joy in the little victories—like early warnings that prevented casualties, or communities thanking us after a storm. These moments remind me that holidays can wait—but saving lives cannot.

To all my fellow DRR workers, responders, and volunteers: this is more than a role. It’s a calling. And to those reading this blog, I hope you remember us—the people working behind the scenes while you rest safely at home during storms and calamities. We are not heroes. We are just ordinary people doing an extraordinary job, with an extraordinary heart.


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