Erdwin Olivares assumes command of Emergency Operations Center

Colonel Erdwin Olivares officially took the helm of the Emergency Operations Center (COE) on Tuesday, succeeding Major General Juan Manuel Méndez García. The transition ceremony was attended by high-ranking military officials and directors from institutions integrated into the National System for Prevention, Mitigation, and Response.

Olivares expressed his commitment to continuing the work of his predecessor while focusing on enhancing public preparedness. "The biggest challenge we face is bringing preparation tools closer to every Dominican home. An informed and prepared population is our first line of defense against any emergency or disaster," he stated. He aims to ensure citizens know the necessary actions before, during, and after an emergency.

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The biggest challenge we face is bringing preparation tools closer to every Dominican home. An informed and prepared population is our first line of defense against any emergency or disaster.

Méndez García, who led the COE for 25 years, is moving to the executive directorship of the National Institute of Transit and Land Transportation (Intrant). During his tenure, the COE was recognized as a national and international reference point for risk management. The COE staff acknowledged Méndez García's long service with applause.

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We will work so that every citizen knows what to do before, during, and after an event.