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Regional agencies sound call for preparedness in earthquake drill

PAGADIAN CITY, 8 June (PIA)  - The Regional Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council (RDRRMC)-IX, in collaboration with the Office of Civil Defense (OCD)-IX, National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA)-IX, Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG)-IX, and Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO), jointly organized the 2nd Quarter National Simultaneous Earthquake Drill (NSED).

The drill took place at NEDA-IX, Regional Government Center, Balintawak, this city, showcasing exceptional interagency cooperation and a strong commitment to disaster preparedness.

Under the capable leadership of NEDA IX Director Phlorita A. Ridao, OCD IX Director Ramon Ochotorena, DILG-IX, and PDRRMO representatives, the NSED served as a critical platform to raise awareness and test the preparedness levels of various government agencies in the event of a potential earthquake scenario. The initiative further aligned with the mission of the RDRRMC-IX, which operates under the combined efforts of these agencies.

Director Ochotorena delivered an inspiring message emphasizing the significance of disaster preparedness to foster resilience within the region. He urged all participants to actively engage in the drill and utilize the opportunity to enhance their understanding of response protocols, thereby ensuring the safety of themselves and their colleagues.

“Isapuso po natin ito [drill] para ang bawat isa ay maging ligtas kung may lindol (Let's take this [drill] to heart so that everyone can be safe if there is an earthquake),” he said.

Informative and visually appealing Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) materials, as well as disaster kits like Go Bags and first aid kits, were showcased. By displaying IEC materials and disaster kits, the importance of spreading information and providing practical resources for building a resilient community was highlighted.

During the activity, the PDRRMO, Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP)-IX, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), and Philippine Red Cross showcased their expertise and dedication through a series of rescue support activities. They conducted simulated rescue operations, provided first-aid assistance, and facilitated emergency evacuations, demonstrating their unwavering commitment to the safety and well-being of the community.

The drill witnessed the active participation of employees from various government agencies, who displayed commendable adherence to safety protocols and demonstrated their preparedness to respond effectively in the face of an earthquake.

The success of the NSED further emphasizes the importance of sustained collaboration between government agencies and the local community in building a more resilient future in the face of natural disasters. (NBE/EDT/HTB/PIA9-Zamboanga del Sur)

About the Author

Harvy Bangayan

Information Officer

Region 9

Harvy T. Bangayan earned his Bachelor's degree in Computer Science at the Western Mindanao State University (WMSU) and is now pursuing his Master's degree in Public Administration at the same institution. A music lover, he now writes news in Zamboanga del Sur and manages the PIA Zamboanga del Sur Facebook page.

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