The Overseas Security Advisory Council (OSAC) and American Chamber of Commerce (AmCham) of the Philippine’s Security and Disaster Resources Group Committee (SDRG) met with local partners on April 18, 2013 at the headquarters of the PNP Eastern Police District (EPD) in Pasig City, in an effort to exchange information and contacts to improve security and safety practices in their respective businesses.

EPD covers Mandaluyong, Pasig, San Juan, and Marikina which are areas of importance because of the presence of US businesses and of constituent businesses and employees of OSAC and AmCham members. EPD presented their efforts in disaster response and in maintaining peace and order. Meanwhile, members of OSAC shared new technological management solutions for the EPD.

On March 21, the group held their meeting in the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) Office. MMDA Chairman Francis Tolentino welcomed the group. MMDA presented the capability of the office in monitoring and responding to disasters. During the meeting, it was pointed out that the ability of a country to overcome the effects of a disaster is through its private sector. MMDA also gave the group a tour around its Flood Control Information Center.

Stephen Cutler, chairman of OSAC Manila Country Council, explained during the latest meeting that OSAC and AmChan SDRG “tries to get their members together at least once a month to discuss best practices and issues related to safety and security.”

Cutler pointed out that attendees are responsible for security and safety of thousands of Filipino workers employed by their respective companies and billions of pesos worth of property. By engaging in such activities, members of OSAC and AmCham can better perform their duties.

The OSAC and AmChan SDRG monthly meetings are opportunities to exchange best practices with meet local partners in terms of safety, security, and disaster mitigations.