THE Office of Civil Defense, in collaboration with the City Government of Tagbilaran through the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO), spearheaded the 2023 Third Quarter Nationwide Simultaneous Earthquake Drill on September 7, 2023.
The event took place at the Old Tagbilaran City Airport and was designed to enhance disaster preparedness and response capabilities, with Tagbilaran City serving as the pilot area for this crucial activity.
The earthquake drill commenced with an opening program, where a welcome message on behalf of Tagbilaran City Mayor Jane Yap was delivered by Vice Mayor Adam Relson Jala, setting the tone for the day.
The keynote address, originally to be delivered by National Defense Secretary Atty. Gilbert Teodoro, was done by ASec. Hernando Caraig Jr. of the Office of Civil Defense.
Throughout the program, various dignitaries expressed their support to the activity, including Director Teresito Bacolcol of the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS); Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Secretary Rex Gatchalian, represented by DSWD Region 7 Director Shalaine Marie Lucero; and Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Benjamin Abalos Jr., represented by DILG USec. Serafin Barretto Jr.
Closing the program, a recorded message by Civil Defense Administrator USec. Ariel Nepomuceno was played.
At precisely 2:00 p.m., the ceremonial pressing of a button initiated the ground-shaking simulation, and sirens sounded, signaling the start of the drill. Participants swiftly executed the “Duck, Cover, and Hold” procedure, emphasizing the importance of immediate protective actions during an earthquake.
The CDRRMO led by Mr. Gerard Lavadia orchestrated a full-scale simulation exercise, providing a comprehensive showcase of the city’s disaster response operations.
They were able to conduct different scenarios to include the activation of the Incident Management Team and Emergency Operations Center, communication unit exercise, mass casualty incident, search and rescue, structural fire, looting, and rapid damage assessment and needs analysis.
This practical demonstration allowed emergency responders, government agencies, and the community to observe and evaluate the city’s readiness to address the challenges posed by a major seismic event.
In her statement, Mayor Yap emphasized the importance of proactive disaster preparedness and the critical role played by the CDRRMO, government agencies and the community in this regard.
The mayor stated, “Disaster preparedness is a shared responsibility, and today’s earthquake drill reinforces our commitment to safeguarding our community against the unpredictable forces of nature. The City of Tagbilaran is fortunate to have such a dedicated and capable team in the CDRRMO. We are also grateful to the City Health Office, Tagbilaran City College, Tarsier 117, Philippine National Police, Bureau of Fire, Armed Forces of the Philippines, Philippine Coast Guard, Active Local Emergency Response Team, City Traffic Management Office and all the event participants for the support. The earthquake drill not only serves as an essential exercise in disaster preparedness but also highlights the significance of coordinated efforts between government agencies, local authorities, and the community in ensuring the safety and resilience of Tagbilaran City.”
