On November 4, 2025, Councilor Melnan R. Murallo-Asanza represented Mayor Rex C. Oliva in accepting two (2) fiberglass-reinforced plastic rescue boats with engines and complete accessories on behalf of Iriga City. The donation ceremony took place at the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) Regional Office V in Fabrica, Bula, Camarines Sur, and was made possible through the generous support of the Philippine Disaster Resilience Foundation (PDRF), Caterpillar Foundation, GHD Foundation, and PEPSICO, in partnership with the BFAR ROV, led by RD Ariel U. Pioquinto.
Councilor Murallo-Asanza was joined by Local Disaster Risk Reduction Management Officer Jasmin B. Botor and City Agriculturist Arjay B. Ramirez in receiving this vital life-saving equipment. The addition of these fiberglass boats significantly strengthens Iriga City’s disaster response capabilities.
The newly received rescue boats will serve as crucial assets in the city’s emergency operations, especially during floods, evacuations, relief distribution, and rescue missions. With these boats, our city is better equipped to safeguard lives and deliver swift assistance during times of disaster.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to PDRF, Caterpillar Foundation, GHD Foundation, PEPSICO, and BFAR for their invaluable contributions. This generous donation will have a lasting impact, ensuring that our Local Government Units (LGUs) are always prepared and resilient in the face of future challenges.
Source: Lungsod Ng Iriga