Philippine Amateur Radio Association Inc. (PARA / DX1PAR)
Philippine Amateur Radio Association Inc. (PARA / DX1PAR)
Ladies and gentlemen, good morning!
As the Director of the PNP Communications and Electronics Service, it is an immense pleasure and honor for me to stand before you today as the Guest of Honor and Speaker during the 91st Philippine Amateur Radio Association or PARA Founding Anniversary. This event marks a significant milestone in the history of your esteemed organization, and I am truly privileged to share in this momentous activity with you all. Let me extend my deepest gratitude to the PARA community and its members headed by their President and Chairman of the Board, ang walang sawang nagmamahal at nagmamalasakit sa PNP CES, the highly respected former member of the police force, PMGEN RAMON PURUGGANAN (Ret), for their unwavering dedication and the incredible contributions they have shared to the PNP and to our nation, especially during times of adversity.
Today, we gather not only to commemorate PARA's rich history but also to recognize the selfless heroes among us, who have tirelessly provided vital support and communication when our fellow Filipinos were in dire need. The 91 years of PARA’s existence speaks volumes about the dedication, resilience, and unwavering commitment of the countless individuals who have contributed to the growth and success of this organization. Your collective efforts have not only nurtured the spirit of amateur radio but also exemplified the principles of emergency communication, public service, and community support. PARA, through its Ham Emergency Radio Operations or HERO program, has been at the forefront of disaster response and humanitarian aid during some of the most challenging times our nation has faced.
In times of crisis, when traditional communication channels fail and panic sets in, PARA has been the steadfast beacon of hope and assistance. The amateur radio operators of PARA have willingly risked their lives to travel to disaster-hit areas, providing emergency communications that have saved countless lives. They selflessly assisted the emergency clusters such as the PNP in the provision of communications support and services for coordinating, monitoring and situation reporting.
One unforgettable example of PARA's invaluable service was during the 7.2-magnitude earthquake that shook Bohol and Cebu on October 15, 2013. PARA members were there on the ground, delivering real-time reports to emergency first responders such as the PNP, disaster management teams, and welfare providers despite the constant threat of aftershock quakes. The information they provided were critical in coordinating rescue efforts and ensuring the safety and well-being of those affected.
Similarly, when Super Typhoon Yolanda (Haiyan) ravaged Samar, Leyte, and Cebu on November 3, 2013, PARA's ham emergency radio operatives played a vital role in relaying the extent of the disaster and the resulting casualties to government agencies. They also facilitated communication between survivors and their relatives, jumpstarting emergency relief efforts and charitable initiatives in the wake of this heart-wrenching tragedy.
During these critical times, amateur radio was often the only lifeline for victims to reach out to us not just locally but also in the international community. PARA's untiring efforts, their commitment to duty, and their selflessness have resulted in the salvation of hundreds of lives. Although these heroes often go unsung, their impact in our nation and the world at large is immeasurable. In these moments, we are reminded of the extraordinary power of human compassion and solidarity. PARA's dedication to helping others in times of crisis exemplifies the true spirit of volunteerism, patriotism, and community service, which make a great impact to public safety.
It is on this note that the we, the PNP and PARA, formalized our partnership through a Memorandum of Understanding in April 2023 emphasizing therein the provision of assistance to the communities affected by natural disasters and calamities through communications support and services to the PNP through CES. All Regional Communications and Electronics Units were able to coordinate with the affiliated members of PARA in their respective area of responsibilities for the development of plans on local response or disaster relief operations as well as trainings and educational opportunities that will enhance our capacities and capabilities. This is the first step in fostering a strong sense of camaraderie between the PNP CES and PARA while implementing our MOU.
With that, our deepest appreciation to PMGEN PURUGGANAN, sir for always keeping CES in the pinnacle of success while providing radio communications support and services to the PNP with PARA as our force multipliers. This is a clear manifestation of your tremendous support and concern to the PNP organization most especially CES and we also assure you of our selfless services and support in the attainment of PARA’s mission.
Allow me also to extend my sincerest gratefulness to the former member of the CES Advisory Council and PARA President, the late Mr. Ramon Anquilan, DU1UGZ who unselfishly shared his knowledge, expertise and experiences on communications and electronics that greatly contributed in our Performance Governance System.
Further, let me commend the participation of PARA affiliated clubs in events such as the Summer Vacation (SUMVAC), National and Local Elections, Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections 2023, All Saints' Day and All Souls’ Day (UNDAS), among others. Their invaluable assistance in providing communications support during these crucial events underscores the vital role PARA plays in ensuring the smooth flow of information and security during significant activities.
Finally, let me congratulate all awardees in today’s activity. My snappiest salute to these unsung heroes, whose commitment to humanitarian causes and disaster response shines as a beacon of hope in our society.
Thank you, PARA, for being the heroes that our nation needs, and for embodying the spirit of "Bayanihan" that makes our country stronger and more resilient. May your noble efforts continue to inspire us all to be better, to be more compassionate, and to stand together in the face of adversity. Thank you for the privilege of addressing you today, and I look forward to witnessing the continued growth and triumphs of this esteemed organization together with the PNP CES.
Mabuhay ang PARA! Mabuhay ang PNP CES! Maraming salamat at magandang araw po sa ating lahat.