The push for a disaster-resilient Philippines just got stronger! ARISE Philippines, the country’s premier private sector-led resilience network, held its first-ever Annual General Meeting (AGM) on January 27, 2025, at the ARISE Secretariat headquarters in MOA Square, Mall of Asia Complex. With an impressive 156-strong membership spanning private companies, civil society groups, NGOs, and academic institutions, the network is set to elevate disaster resilience efforts nationwide.
A Multi-Sector Commitment to Resilience
Bringing together key industry leaders and policymakers, this milestone AGM carried the theme “Catalyzing Progress for a Resilient and Sustainable Future towards ARISE 2030.” Under the guiding principles of Innovate, Integrate, and Elevate, the gathering underscored the need for fresh approaches, cross-sector collaboration, and higher resilience standards to future-proof the country against disasters.
United for a Stronger Future
Co-Chair for the private sector, Engr. Liza Silerio, welcomed the attendees, recognizing their invaluable role in strengthening community resilience and sustainable development. Meanwhile, Office of Civil Defense Undersecretary Ariel Nepomuceno underscored the importance of engineering solutions in disaster preparedness and the vital contributions of private sector leaders in making resilience a national priority.
Adding a global perspective, UNDRR Regional Office for Asia and the Pacific Chief Marco Toscano-Rivalta sent a video message commending ARISE Philippines’ leadership in disaster risk reduction. “Your work was crucial to the success of the Asia Pacific Ministerial Conference for Disaster Risk Reduction in Manila last October. ARISE Philippines has set the benchmark for public-private partnerships in resilience,” he noted.
Strengthening the Movement
In a show of commitment, ARISE Global Board Member Vice Admiral (VADM) Alexander Pama (Ret.) joined the event to reinforce support for the local network. One of the key highlights of the AGM was the launch of seven new ARISE Philippines Materials and Knowledge products, set to help members implement impactful resilience-building initiatives.
As part of the AGM, member companies pledged their active participation in seven new programs, marking another step forward in creating disaster-ready communities.
Rallying for Action
Closing the event on a powerful note, ARISE Philippines Private Sector Chairperson Mr. Hans Sy delivered a compelling call to action. “Collaboration is key. We must work together to co-create bridges for resilience and ensure a stronger, more resilient Philippines for future generations,” he emphasized.
Moving Forward
With SM Prime Holdings serving as its secretariat, ARISE Philippines continues to champion business resilience against both natural and man-made hazards. To learn more about the network’s initiatives, visit www.arise.ph or email secretariat@arise.ph.
The road to a resilient 2030 has officially begun—let’s build it together!
