September 19, 2025
MANILA – President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has signed into law a measure allowing the government to declare a ‘State of Imminent Disaster’ before a calamity strikes.
According to Republic Act No. 12287 signed on September 12, the declaration will enable the National, Regional and Local Disaster Risk Reduction Management (DRRM) councils to utilize national and local resources and mechanisms for implementing anticipatory actions within specified or permissible lead time.
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It authorizes the chief executive to declare a State of Imminent Disaster over a cluster of barangays, municipalities, cities, provinces and regions upon the recommendation of the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC).
Meanwhile, local chief executives may declare a State of Imminent Disaster through an executive order in their jurisdictions upon the recommendation of the Regional DRRM Councils.
“The NDRRMC or the Regional DRRM Councils shall conduct a pre-disaster risk assessment in anticipation of a highly probable disaster with projected catastrophic impacts, which shall serve as the basis for the Declaration of a State of Imminent Disaster,” the law read.
In a pre-disaster risk assessment, a hazard must be classified as severe if it is expected to harm the population.
There must also be at least three days of lead time for the government to take anticipatory action, which can be extended to five days if needed.
The declaration of a State of Imminent Disaster will allow the dissemination of public information; mobilizing and prepositioning inter-agency response teams; initiating preemptive or forced evacuation; mobilizing duly accredited and trained volunteers; and more.
Other measures include implementing a social amelioration program for the indigent and most vulnerable population; carrying out contingency plans to mitigate damage to agricultural products and food supply; and providing technical and advisory assistance to ensure public health and safety.
As to the funding, the local government units shall include anticipatory action measures in their regular programs, plans and activities lodged under their local DRRM funds.