The Philippines is located in the Pacific Ring of Fire, a region known for its high seismic activity, making it particularly vulnerable to earthquakes. With the potential for earthquakes to occur at any time, it is essential for individuals and communities to be prepared and equipped with the necessary skills to respond effectively in the event of an earthquake.
In a proactive move to enhance preparedness for earthquakes, the Regional Training Center Korea-Philippines Vocational Training Center recently organized an earthquake drill in collaboration with Central 911 Davao. Taking place on May 05, 2023, the drill aimed to raise awareness and equip participants with the necessary skills to respond effectively during seismic events, which are all too familiar in the Philippines due to its location in the Pacific Ring of Fire.
Central 911 Davao, renowned for its expertise in disaster response, played a pivotal role in facilitating the drill. The team provided detailed instructions on how to respond in the event of an earthquake, emphasizing the importance of remaining calm and following the widely recognized “Drop, Cover, and Hold On” technique. This technique involves swiftly dropping to the ground, seeking cover under a sturdy table or desk, and holding on until the shaking subsides.
With the guidance of Lyndon Leovic L. Ancajas – Administrative and Training Division Head and Erlianne Marie J. Martinez – Training Section Chief of Central 911 Davao, trainees diligently practiced the “Drop, Cover, and Hold On” technique to reinforce their understanding of the procedure. Following this exercise, the trainees proceeded to evacuate the area in an orderly manner, walking in single file while maintaining a safe distance to prevent any potential injuries. Once they reached the designated evacuation area, a meticulous process of accounting for each participant took place, ensuring the safety of everyone involved.
To further enhance the effectiveness of the drill, Central 911 Davao conducted a comprehensive debriefing session. During this session, trainees engaged in discussions regarding the strengths and weaknesses of their responses, with Central 911 Davao providing valuable feedback on areas that performed well and highlighting areas that may require improvement. This interactive session allowed trainees to ask questions, seek clarification on certain procedures, and foster a deeper understanding of effective earthquake preparedness.
The earthquake drill organized by the Regional Training Center – Korea-Philippines Vocational Training Center Davao and facilitated by Central 911 Davao underscores the commitment of both organizations to prioritizing the safety and preparedness of individuals in the face of seismic events. By actively engaging trainees in practical exercises and fostering open dialogue, the drill served as a valuable opportunity to reinforce knowledge, identify areas for improvement, and ultimately strengthen the overall resilience of the community
As the threat of earthquakes persists in the Philippines, drills such as these play a critical role in equipping individuals with the skills and knowledge necessary to respond effectively, mitigating potential risks and ensuring a safer and more prepared society.
