The Panatag Pilipinas risk communication campaign officially launched at the Music Hall, SM Mall of Asia, marking a major milestone in the country’s disaster preparedness efforts. Spearheaded by the ARISE Philippines network in partnership with the Office of Civil Defense (OCD), SM Supermalls, the World Bank, and the Global Facility for Disaster Reduction and Recovery (GFDRR), the campaign aims to build a more disaster-resilient Philippines through strategic communication and community engagement.
The launch event featured key officials including VADM Alexander P. Pama (Ret), ARISE Global Board Member and Consultant, SM Prime Holdings Inc.; FCSUPT Wilberto Rico Neil A. Kwan Tiu, Deputy Chief for Operations, BFP; MAJ Jose Sixto G. Dantes III PN(M)(Res), Panatag Pilipinas Campaign Ambassador; ASEC Bernardo Rafaelito R. Alejandro IV, CESO IV, MNSA, Officer-in-Charge, Office of Civil Defense; Steven T. Tan, President, SM Supermalls; Fides B. Borja, Senior Disaster Risk Management Specialist, World Bank; and Engr. Liza B. Silerio, Co-Chairperson, ARISE Philippines and VP, Corporate Compliance, SM Supermalls.
“Panatag Pilipinas reflects our belief that resilience is a shared responsibility. Through strong public–private collaboration, we can build a culture of preparedness and help protect lives, livelihoods and communities across the country,” said ARISE Philippines Chairperson Hans T. Sy.
The Philippines remains one of the world’s most disaster-prone nations, with 74% of its population exposed to hazards including typhoons, earthquakes, floods, and volcanic eruptions. Climate change continues to intensify these risks, threatening vulnerable communities and national stability.
Developed by OCD with technical input from PAGASA, PHIVOLCS, and MGB, and supported financially by the World Bank and GFDRR, Panatag Pilipinas seeks to enhance public understanding of disaster and climate risks. The campaign encourages proactive preparedness through emotionally resonant and informative content.
SM Supermalls, a key partner and active ARISE Philippines member, will amplify the campaign’s reach through its extensive network of malls and digital platforms, disseminating materials to millions of Filipinos nationwide. This includes public service videos, radio advisories, social media content, and teaser clips designed to engage audiences before, during, and after disasters.
The launch featured a ceremonial signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between OCD and SM Supermalls, formalizing their collaboration and underscoring private sector involvement in fostering preparedness culture.
“We are honored to collaborate with the Office of Civil Defense in this initiative. SM Supermalls is committed to supporting efforts that build stronger, safer communities across the country,” said SM Supermalls President Steven T. Tan.
Coinciding with National Disaster Resilience Month 2025, the campaign reinforces collective community resilience through education, innovation, and collaboration. Panatag Pilipinas materials will be distributed across social media, TV, radio, digital billboards, and public spaces including airports, bus terminals, and shopping malls.
ARISE Philippines, operating under the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction, continues championing multi-sectoral approaches to disaster risk reduction.
About SM Supermalls Celebrating 40 Super Years, SM Supermalls—one of Southeast Asia’s largest mall developers and operators—continuously evolves in sustainable development by integrating green design, energy efficiency, disaster resilience, and environmental stewardship into its 88 Philippine malls while creating inclusive spaces that enrich communities and support climate action.
