rsantiagolts1-blog

[rsantiagolts1-blog]

Barangay 466, Zone 46, a community of 700 to 1,500 residents, is one of the ten barangays that governs from Lacson corner Dapitan to Espana corner P. Noval. I interviewed Kagawad Francisco “Kiko” Vargas which is a DRRM Head Council and at the same time the Head of Justice Committee. He is also the Head of Volunteers of the well-known Raha Volunteers who leads the rescue operations during disasters.

There are many issues that the barangay is facing such as holdup incidents, snatchers, air pollution, noise pollution, flood during typhoons, and earthquakes. Kagawad Vargas mentioned that the holdup incidents were rampant around P. Noval St., Alfonso Mendoza St., and P. Campa St. not just because of the poor lighting but also because of the carelessness of the people. He also praised Thomasians for always being alert that’s why he is rest assured that the students around the barangay are always safe. For the noise and air pollution, he told me that these are the factors that are slightly uncontrollable because it is a part of the daily activities of the people anywhere. Loud engines from motorcycles and the stubborn smokers were just too much. But he still wishes that one day, these people will be mindful of their surroundings and start caring and respecting other people’s personal space. Last but not the least, the flooding problem is still a huge problem for their barangay. One strong factor that Kagawad Vargas mentioned is the failure of the residents to segregate their trash. Irresponsible residents throwing their garbage around the barangay is largely contributing to the flooding during typhoons because of the clogged canals.

With these issues that the barangay is facing, the leaders of the barangay are taking action to address these problems. One of the proudest plans of Kagawad Vargas is the construction of solar panels in the barangay. He said that it will keep the residents of the barangay safe in the event of a power outage. Not only would they have a backup power supply, but they will also eliminate the risk of getting electrocuted from utility posts during typhoons. In addition to this, the acquisition of new additional equipment helped the barangay leaders respond efficiently in times of disaster. Kagawad Vargas also mentioned that the barangay has DRRM Programs and evacuation system that will surely help the residents in times of calamity such as places of rendezvous and letting the barangay leaders know that you are safe so that no time will be wasted during rescue operations. The barangay leaders provide reminders on the dormitories and buildings surrounding the barangay about drills and they also orient the tenants regarding how to keep themselves safe in the event of a disaster. The availability of additional trainings and seminars continues to be practiced by the barangay as it aims to safeguard the lives of every barangay resident. All of these would not be possible without the cooperation and coordination of the barangay with the LGUs and NGOs of the country. Because of these, the barangay enjoys additional budget to further improve and bring into existence the barangay’s projects and objectives.

Kagawad Vargas mentioned the safest places to go in times of calamity such as the court in P. Campa, the UST field, the gymnasium, seminary tennis court, Quadricentennial park, and plaza mayor. The barangay leaders as well as the volunteers are always responding in time with the help of the local government units to help make the barangay safer for everyone. The barangay leaders play an important social role in maintaining the safety of every resident in the area. But it will still boil down to the cooperation and unity of the barangay during drills and in the event of a disaster. Kagawad Vargas also mentioned the EDC and the EKITS. The EDC or everyday carry consists of an identification card, flashlight, whistle, and lighter (Just like a B.O.B bag). Emergency kits, on the other hand, consists of hygiene kits, first aid kits, and other items that increase an individual’s survivability rate in times of disaster. It aims to help the residents to be always prepared and to know how to take care of themselves. 

In my opinion, the barangay officials of Barangay 466 Zone 46 are doing a great job in maintaining the safety and security of the residents. However, it would still depend on the ability of the residents to follow instructions and to cooperate and work as one during dire times. It is very important for the residents to be aware of the issues being faced by the barangay and to be able to contribute as well as it is our duty and right to voice out our ideas and suggestions to the officials. It is true that the barangay will not improve like this if not for the unity of the barangay officials as well as its residents. A great barangay for a greater nation indeed.

SANTIAGO, Rafael Elija A.

L- ACCT-1