One of the most pressing problems the Philippines is facing is natural disasters. The country is highly vulnerable to a range of natural disasters due to its geographical location, with its archipelagic structure exposed to typhoons, earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and flooding. These natural disasters pose significant problems and challenges to most localities in the country. The impact of typhoons, earthquakes, floods, and other calamities can be devastating, resulting in loss of lives, destruction of infrastructure and livelihood, and disruption of communities.

City Mayors and officials play a major role in disaster risk reduction management for their respective cities and municipalities. They are at the frontlines of disaster preparedness and prevention programs as well as response and recovery programs.

In response to these challenges, our first Liveable Cities Lab for the year is Resilient Cities: Navigating Natural Disasters and Building Stronger Communities. This  Lab is a venue to exchange ideas, benchmarking, and learn from experts.