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TEC-FORCE Awards Recognition

On February 27, 2023, the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT) announced that nine organizations were honored with the prestigious TEC-FORCE awards for their exceptional efforts in responding to natural disasters. This recognition highlights their commitment to supporting affected communities and preventing further damage during severe weather events, particularly the heavy rainfall that occurred from August 6, 2022.

Background of TEC-FORCE Awards

The TEC-FORCE awards were established in 2015 to acknowledge organizations that played a significant role in disaster response, contributing to stabilizing local communities and rebuilding social infrastructure after large-scale natural disasters. The capacity to respond effectively in times of crisis is crucial for mitigating the impacts of such disasters, and these awards celebrate those who rise to the occasion.

The Upcoming Ceremony

A formal awards ceremony is scheduled for March 3, 2023, from 5:30 PM to 6:00 PM at the central government building in Chiyoda, Tokyo. The event will follow a structured agenda:
1. Opening of the ceremony
2. Address by the Minister of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism
3. Presentation of award certificates
4. Acceptance speeches from awardees
5. Closing remarks

The nine organizations receiving this recognition are local disaster response teams, or TEC-FORCE units, from various local public works offices across the country. Their collective efforts were instrumental during times of crisis, helping to ensure safety and resilience within their communities.

Coverage for the Press

Members of the media are invited to cover the awards ceremony, including a photo session afterward. Journalists wishing to attend need to register by March 2 at 2 PM, providing their organization name, job title, name, and contact information. Registration is essential to ensure security and order at the event. Please arrive by 5:15 PM to complete registration before the ceremony begins.

Moreover, it is expected that Minister Kaneko will attend the ceremony. However, attendance could be subject to change due to official commitments. Should there be any alterations to the schedule, registered reporters will be notified through the contact details provided during registration.

TEC-FORCE Activities and Support

TEC-FORCE teams have been actively involved in various missions within their respective regions, employing advanced technology such as drones for damage assessment and utilizing equipment like drainage pumps to facilitate timely water management during disasters, particularly in regions like Kumamoto Prefecture and Kanazawa City.

The TEC-FORCE program continues to demonstrate how crucial organized disaster response units are in safeguarding lives and property. The contributions made by these teams are invaluable and reflect the spirit of resilience in Japan's communities during challenging times.

For more information regarding the TEC-FORCE awards and coverage of the ceremony, please contact the relevant offices for detailed inquiries.