DIGOS CITY, Davao del Sur — The City Government of Digos paid tribute to the men and women who rush toward danger when others flee, concluding National Disaster Resilience Month with the 3rd Volunteers' Summit on July 31, 2026, at the City Gymnasium.
A Salute to Frontline Heroes
Vice Mayor Atty. Johari Baña, Vice Chairperson of the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council, welcomed the volunteers and framed their sacrifice as the bedrock of community safety. He commended their selfless dedication and expressed hope that more residents would be inspired to join disaster preparedness initiatives.
Office of Civil Defense Davao Region Director Ednar Dayanghirang stressed that true resilience starts at the grassroots level. He urged the city to develop a 10‑year Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Plan to provide a sustainable framework for long‑term preparedness that transcends political administrations.
The Battle of the Barangays
A day before the summit, barangay response teams competed in the Rescuelympics on July 30. The event tested their skills in technical rescue, first aid, and emergency response simulations. Teams demonstrated casualty extraction, bandaging, and coordination drills under realistic pressure conditions.
Barangay Zone III emerged as overall champion, with Barangay Kapatagan taking first runner‑up and Barangay Zone I securing second runner‑up. Cash prizes, plaques, and certificates were awarded to the winners. Each participating team left with recognition for their dedication and service.
A Tapestry of Service
The summit showcased the breadth of Digos' volunteer network, bringing together emergency responders, barangay defenders, and civic partners in a display of unity. Participating organizations included the 1101st Community Defense Center, Kabalikat Radiocom Philippines, and the Davao del Sur Emergency Volunteers, alongside several radio communications groups.
Humanitarian and youth groups included the Philippine Red Cross–Davao del Sur Chapter, Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts of the Philippines, and the UM Digos College Disaster Emergency Response Team. The Digos Filipino‑Chinese Fire Volunteer Cooperative, Aplaya Rescue Team 911, and Traverse Volunteer Group completed the coalition.
Grassroots Resilience in Action
Barangay responders from 11 communities participated, representing the city's broad commitment to grassroots disaster preparedness. The event featured presentation of accomplishment reports by volunteer organizations, showcasing the tangible impact of their work throughout the year and inspiring others to follow their example.
Acting CDRRM Officer John Basil Sevilla, City Administrator Rex Cagas, and City Councilors Liza M. Cagas and Nestor Aldeguer Jr. joined the recognition ceremonies. Their presence underscored the local government's gratitude for the volunteers' invaluable service and commitment to public safety.
Building a Culture of Readiness
The summit reinforced Digos City's commitment to promoting volunteerism as a pillar of community safety. Under Mayor Josef Fortich Cagas' leadership, the city continues to strengthen partnerships that advance disaster preparedness and emergency response capabilities.
The event concluded with a shared commitment to sustaining the momentum beyond National Disaster Resilience Month. Volunteers departed with renewed purpose, knowing their efforts are recognized and valued by the community they serve.
