Barangays in Action: Rescue Olympics 2025 Strengthens Disaster Preparedness in Kitaotao

In line with the nationwide observance of National Disaster Resilience Month (NDRM), the Municipality of Kitaotao, through its Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO), successfully conducted the 2025 Rescue Olympics — a dynamic and purposeful event that gathered barangay-based teams to test and showcase their disaster response capabilities.

The NDRM, formerly known as the National Disaster Consciousness Month, is celebrated every July in the Philippines. It was established under Executive Order No. 137 (s. 1999) and rebranded through Executive Order No. 29 (2017) to emphasize not just awareness, but resilience. The observance is led by the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC), with support from national agencies and local DRRM councils. It focuses on four thematic areas: disaster prevention and mitigation, preparedness, response, and recovery/rehabilitation.

The Rescue Olympics is Kitaotao’s local expression of this national goal — providing a platform where barangays performed various simulated rescue operations. A total of 14 barangays took part in this year’s Rescue Olympics, each proudly representing their communities with trained responders ready to perform life-saving tasks. Their participation reflects the growing commitment of grassroots leaders to build disaster-resilient barangays across Kitaotao.

More than a competition, the event served as a training ground for real-life emergencies, enhancing the readiness of frontliners and encouraging collaboration across barangays. It also highlighted the importance of community-level preparedness — a crucial element in reducing risks and saving lives during disasters.

🏆 Brgy. Kitaihon emerged as the Overall Champion, showcasing outstanding performance in multiple areas of disaster response. Brgy. Kauyunan secured 2nd Place, while Brgy. Sto. Rosario claimed 3rd Place. Meanwhile, Brgy. Sinuda was recognized as Best in Uniform, displaying both discipline and unity in their presentation.

With this year's celebration themed around building stronger, safer, and more resilient communities, the Municipality of Kitaotao proudly joins the rest of the nation in honoring its local responders and promoting a culture of disaster readiness. The Rescue Olympics 2025 stands as a testament to the town’s commitment to resilience, teamwork, and community empowerment.