As part of its efforts to strengthen its partnership with the private sectors, the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) and UBE Express Inc. has signed a memorandum of agreement (MOA) where the agency can use the transportation provider’s communication systems in disaster response.

OCD chief Undersecretary Ariel Nepomuceno, during the signing of the MOA with UBE Express founding chairman Alberto Lina, hailed the company for its support to the government, noting the significance of collaboration in advancing disaster risk reduction and management (DRRM) in the country.

“We view partnership as a crucial mechanism for achieving our objectives and goals in the field of DRRM. We firmly believe that strategic actions require a harmonized and collective effort between the government and other stakeholders, particularly the private sector,” he added in a statement Tuesday.

The MOA signing ceremony was held at Cargohaus, NAIA Complex, Parañaque City on Nov. 14.

Under the MOA, the OCD will be allowed to use UBE Express’ rapid radio support vehicle (RRSV) to enhance the emergency communications capabilities of the Emergency Operations Center and Incident Command Post during disaster response operations.

UBE Express’ RRSV is equipped with a wide range of communication tools and staffed by personnel trained in operating the emergency communications vehicle.

The RRSV features integrated communication capabilities that enable interoperability across various radio frequencies used by emergency responders (UHF, VHF, HF), as well as mobile and satellite communications.

Meanwhile, Lina said their group of companies is always prepared to provide assistance.

“We’re on call and kung meron man kaming improvement na pwede pang gawin sabihin niyo lang (if there is any improvement we can do, just tell us). We could also learn from what you are doing and we, at the Lina Group of companies, are on call, anytime, 24/7,” he said. (PNA)