The CALABARZON unit of UNTV NEWS and Rescue was awarded a plaque of recognition by the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) Region IV-A during the Gawad Kalasag National Awards 2017 on August 24.

UNTV’s first batch of correspondents who graduated from the training with the Search and Rescue Unit Foundation (SARUF), was introduced during the second UNTV Rescue Summit in August 2015. (Photo courtesy: Photoville International | Rodel Lumiares)

Gawad Kalasag was launched by the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC), through the Office of CIvil Defense in 2010.

OCD Region IV-A recognized the continuous efforts committed by UNTV in not just having an effective disaster risk reduction and management program, but also in providing proper dissemination of information to the public during disasters.

During the second UNTV Rescue Summit in August 2015 at SMX Convention Center, the station’s latest machinery and equipment for disaster rescues was unveiled and exhibited. Included was a drone (the use of which in the field of journalism was instated by UNTV) to be used for wider news video coverage. (Photo courtesy: Photoville International | Rodel Lumiares)

As an annual search for excellence in disaster risk reduction and management and humanitarian assistance, Gawad Kalasag is given to units and organizations — from barangay to provincial levels — that maintain and implement a disaster risk reduction program.

The leading awardees recognized by OCD Region IV-A include Batangas Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (DRRMC) and Batangas City DRRMC. The municipal units of Carmona and Ternante, Cavite were also cited.

UNTV’s Disaster Risk Reduction Efforts

The UNTV News and Rescue training for underwater rescue mission, held in August 2014 at Morong Star Beach Resort, Bataan, was participated by the Philippine Coast Guard and the station’s correspondents from various regions in the country. (Photo courtesy: Photoville International | Webster Moldez)

Being true to its brand as a public service channel, UNTV News and Rescue has since invested in training its correspondents to be well-equipped with skills necessary in times of accidents, disasters, and calamities.

“Tulong Muna, Bago Balita”, the station’s primary advocacy spearheaded by BMPI President and CEO Daniel Razon, aims to prioritize helping people in crises situations instead of news reporting.

With this, all regional bureaus of UNTV, including overseas units, have already undergone several extensive trainings on rescue and safety skills for emergency missions.

Written by Elizabeth Borromeo