Section 9. Public Education and Information. —

At least once a year, the DOST and the NDRRMC shall, in coordination with the local government units (LGUs) and nongovernment organizations (NGOs) or people's organizations (POs), disseminate information and conduct continuing education on the provisions of this Act through the media and other lawful means available. The dissemination of information and continuing education on the provisions of this Act shall commence within sixty (60) days from the approval of its implementing rules and regulations.

Such information dissemination and continuing education shall:

  1. Aim to develop public awareness of: (1) the ill effects of unlawful taking or stealing, tampering and buying and selling of stolen government risk reduction and preparedness equipment, accessories and other vital facility items, or parts thereof; and (2) the community-based solutions to prevent the occurrence of such offense; and

  2. Encourage the public, NGOs and POs to safeguard and protect these government risk reduction and preparedness equipment, accessories and other vital facility items, or parts thereof, within their areas of jurisdiction.