The Office of Civil Defense (OCD) is launching the “Sagip-Buhay ng Mamamayan (SBM) Youth Brigade” to empower Filipino youth as frontliners in disaster preparedness and response.
OCD Officer-in-Charge Asst. Sec. Bernardo Rafaelito Alejandro IV signed an agreement with Sectoral Anti-Poverty Leadership CEO Chanda A. Gonzales to formalize the partnership.
The OCD will provide foundational training for certified youth members, collaborating with the Department of the Interior and Local Government and the Sangguniang Kabataan.
Meanwhile, SAP will manage specialized training, maintain a national database, and secure insurance coverage for brigade members.
The program will start with a pilot in the National Capital Region before expanding nationwide, aiming to formally accredit the youth as recognized community disaster volunteers.
Source: PhilNews24 | August 18, 2025
