BORONGAN CITY, Eastern Samar, Philippines — The City Government of Borongan has been conferred the prestigious Gold Award after being named the 2025 Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (DRRM) Champion and Top Component City in Region VIII.

The recognition was formally bestowed during the Kabaskog: Recognizing Champions in DRRM awarding ceremony, organized by the Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (RDRRMC) VIII, held on January 20, at the Radiant Hotel and Events Place, Tacloban City.

The recognition affirms Borongan City’s outstanding performance and sustained commitment to strengthening disaster preparedness, risk reduction strategies, and emergency response mechanisms, in line with national and regional DRRM frameworks.

The city’s success is attributed to the exemplary guidance of Local Chief Executive Jose Ivan Dayan Agda, Acting City Mayor Emmanuel Tiu Sonco, and the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office, led by Engr. Jaime Voces.

This recognition stands not only as a testament to Borongan City’s accomplishments but also as a motivation to pursue higher standards of excellence in building a more resilient, adaptive, and disaster-ready community.

Photo Courtesy: Jake Brandon Lorenzo Agda/FB