DOTC forms special rescue and relief operations body

Transportation Secretary Leandro Mendoza has formed a body that will strengthen the department’s involvement and coordinating capabilities in rescue and relief operations.

The Committee on Rescue and Relief Operations (CRRO), to be chaired by Under-secretary Agustin Bengzon, is tasked to directly coordinate actions with concerned sectoral and attached agencies of the Department of Transportation and Commu-nications (DOTC) for the efficient and effective conduct of rescue and relief operations when the need arises under the National Disaster Coor-dinating Council (NDCC).

Mendoza said the committee also has the duty to formulate programs aimed at enhancing the preparedness of those involved such as conducting training for at least 20 percent of the officers and employees of the DOTC and its other agencies.

The CRRO, he said, is composed of different DOTC agencies, namely the Philippine Coast Guard, Land Transportation Office, Air Trans-portation Office, DOTC Action Center and the Office of the Under-secretary for Rail Transport.

"We can only coordinate and unify our under-takings by establishing a single body or committee that will respond instantly to calamities," said Mendoza. — Sandy Araneta