NLEX Corporation and the Provincial Government of Pampanga have partnered to enhance the province’s disaster preparedness and resilience efforts ahead of the rainy season.

The collaboration included a two-day Policy-Making on Disaster Management Workshop facilitated by the Philippine Disaster Resilience Foundation (PDRF), bringing together about 40 participants from key provincial offices, including the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office, Department of Public Works and Highways, Office of the Provincial Agriculturist, and Provincial Health Office.

The workshop focused on identifying gaps in existing disaster management policies and strengthening protocols to better protect communities during emergencies and natural disasters.

NLEX President and General Manager Luis S. Reñon emphasized Pampanga’s strategic role as a key link between Metro Manila and Central and Northern Luzon, noting that strengthening disaster preparedness is essential to ensuring public safety and maintaining the reliability of critical transport corridors.

Second District Board Member Atty. Claire Lim welcomed the initiative, highlighting the importance of collaboration in safeguarding the lives, homes, and livelihoods of Kapampangans during times of crisis.

Meanwhile, First District Board Member Cherry Manalo expressed appreciation to NLEX and PDRF for helping enhance the capabilities of provincial personnel and frontline responders through the workshop.

Pampanga has faced major natural disasters in the past, including the 1990 Luzon earthquake and the 1991 Mount Pinatubo eruption. As one of Central Luzon’s major economic centers, the province continues to strengthen its disaster resilience efforts to protect communities and support sustainable growth.

The partnership also seeks to improve coordination between government agencies and NLEX to help keep vital transportation routes accessible for emergency responders and the delivery of essential goods during disasters.

PDRF Center Director Arnel Capili underscored the importance of proactive disaster management, stressing the need to balance immediate response measures with long-term climate adaptation strategies.

NLEX Corporation is a subsidiary of Metro Pacific Tollways Corporation, the toll road arm of Metro Pacific Investments Corporation.