SAN FERNANDO CITY, La Union (PIA) – Personnel of the La Union Police Provincial Office (LUPPO) participated in the 3rd quarter Nationwide Simultaneous Earthquake Drill held on Thursday, September 7.

All units at Camp Diego Silang also took part in the activity to ensure the safety and preparedness of both personnel of the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the community in the event of a real earthquake.
 
The drill, which was participated in by some 200 personnel from the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA)  Region 1, Provincial Headquarters (PHQ), National Support Units (NSUs) and civilians, started at exactly 2 p.m., with the sound of an alarm marking the start of the drill.
 
The 1st La Union Police Mobile Force Company (LUPMFC) and the La Union Police Medical and Dental Unit (LUPMDU) personnel showcased their skills in search and rescue operations and first aid demonstration as part of the PNP's awareness of disaster preparedness, emergency response procedures, and protocols. 
 
A proper way to respond to an earthquake was also demonstrated by conducting a drop, cover, and hold drill. 

In her message, LUPPO Community Affairs and Development Unit Assistant Cherry Tolentino said preparedness is crucial as it enables personnel to react quickly and effectively during a real earthquake, potentially saving lives and reducing injuries.
 
“Isa sa paraan ng ating mga national government [agencies ang] sumali sa ganitong drill para ihanda ang lahat ng mamamayan. Tayo ay magkaisa dahil hindi naman kasi natin [alam] kung [kailan] darating ang earthquake,” said Tolentino.
 
The PNP encouraged the public to stay informed and follow safety guidelines in case of an actual earthquake.
 
The La Union police’s initiative to participate in the conduct of nationwide earthquake drills every quarter aims to encourage disaster preparedness and resilience among constituents in the province. (JCR/AMB/KJCR, PIA La Union)