How does the DAO address emergency response and incident reporting?

• A. Requiring preparation of an emergency response plan
• B. Immediate reporting of environmental incidents to authorities
• C. Requiring preparation of an emergency response plan and immediate reporting of environmental incidents to authorities
• D. No requirement

Answer: (C)

The DAO emphasizes both proactive planning and rapid notification to handle environmental incidents effectively. An emergency response plan gives a clear, practiced blueprint for action—defining who does what, what resources are needed, how to communicate, and the steps to contain and remediate impacts. Immediate reporting ensures the right authorities—such as DENR/EMB and relevant local units—are alerted right away, enabling prompt containment, investigation, and regulatory oversight. Together, these requirements create a coordinated, accountable approach to emergencies, which is why combining both elements is the best fit.