ARISE Philippines convened its Annual General Membership (AGM) Meeting on March 26, 2026, at the Henry Sy Sr. Auditorium, SM Prime Inc. Headquarters, under the theme “Accelerating Resilience by 2030: Innovate, Integrate, Impact for a Resilient and Sustainable Future.” The gathering brought together over 190 network members, stakeholders, and partners to review key accomplishments from 2025, set priorities for 2026, and launch new digital platforms—reinforcing strong public-private collaboration in advancing disaster risk reduction.
The event featured interactive consultations across five working groups, aligned with the UNDRR Catalytic Areas for 2026–2030, resulting in actionable commitments from participants. These sessions were complemented by updates from ARISE Global and the presentation of the 2026 Operational Plan, highlighting the network’s strategic direction for the coming years.
A major highlight of the AGM was the launch of the SkillsBuild Program in partnership with IBM Philippines through Asia Pacific College, alongside the unveiling of the new ARISE Philippines website. The launch was symbolically marked by a ceremonial “Pressing of the Button,” led by ARISE PH Board Directors, NDRRMC member agencies, and IBM Philippines representatives.
In his welcome remarks, ARISE Philippines Chairperson and SM Prime Holdings Inc. Chairman of the Executive Committee, Mr. Hans T. Sy, emphasized the importance of a proactive and unified private sector. He underscored the need for sustained collaboration and anticipatory action, noting that resilience today requires systems that are agile, responsive, and prepared for global uncertainties. Undersecretary Harold N. Cabreros of the Office of Civil Defense and NDRRMC echoed this sentiment, highlighting ARISE Philippines’ role as a vital partner in strengthening innovation and resilience across industries.
UNDRR Regional Chief for Asia and the Pacific, Mr. Marco Toscano-Rivalta, delivered a keynote message recognizing the Philippines as a leader in disaster risk reduction and public-private partnerships. He emphasized the value of the country’s collaborative model as an inspiration for other nations in the region.
Key sessions also included updates on the UNDRR Strategic Framework 2026–2030, presented by VADM Alexander P. Pama (Ret.), who outlined a shift toward stronger governance, accountability, and collaboration. This was followed by a comprehensive review of 2025 accomplishments by Ms. Hannah Grace A. Escamilla, showcasing initiatives such as risk assessments, training programs, and multi-sector partnerships.
The ARISE Philippines 2026 Operational Plan, presented by Executive Director Dr. Joseph B. Bacareza, outlined targeted initiatives focused on capacity building and deeper collaboration with government agencies to reduce disaster vulnerabilities by 2030. Meanwhile, the SkillsBuild Program introduced training modules on disaster risk management, AI-driven risk analytics, leadership, and sustainable business practices to empower members in driving innovation.
Closing the event, Engr. Liza B. Silerio emphasized the importance of sustained momentum and encouraged members to lead at least one transformative initiative in the year ahead. The AGM reaffirmed ARISE Philippines’ commitment to advancing public-private partnerships and aligning efforts with the Sendai Framework and the UNDRR Strategic Framework, reinforcing a shared vision for a more resilient and sustainable future.
