OCD ARMM, Upi MDRRMC spearhead 3rd nationwide shake drill

Datu Odin Sinsuat, MAGUINDANAO- At least five thousand (5,000) individuals have participated, 28 September 2016 during the conduct of the 3rd Quarter Nationwide Simultaneous Earthquake Drill (NSED) spearheaded by the Office of Civil Defense-ARMM together with the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council of Upi, this province.

Josefino Dabuco, MDRRMO of Upi, said the Simulation Exercise participated in by the MDRRM Council of Upi together with the different government line agencies, civil society organizations, people’s organization and the academe covers at least four (4) scenarios, Earthquake, Fire, Bombing, and Vehicular Accidents.

“Let me extend my deepest thanks to the different agencies who took part in the success of our activity, the Philippine National Police, Bureau of Fire Protection, Philippines Marines (MBLT 5), Philippine Army, Municipal Health Office/ Rural Health Unit, Upi Muslim Consultative Assembly, Task Force Kasama/ REACT UPLAND, DepEd North and West Districts, Bureau of Jail Management and Penology, Youth Organizations, Civil Society Organizations/ Peoples Organizations, Local Government Unit Employees, and the Barangay Officials from the twenty-three (23) Barangays of the town with their respective BERT/BPATS,” said Dabuco.

Meanwhile, Dabuco added that the academe have had their fair contributions during the conduct of the drill where thousands of students coming from the different schools, both from private and public have accepted the #Pagyanig Challenge.

“Schools that took part during the drill include Upi Agricultural School, Notre Dame of Upi High School, St. Francis High School, Nuro Elementary School and the rest of the twenty-three (23) schools coming from the twenty-three Barangays of the municipality,” said Dabuco.

Leo T. Alicias, Officer-in-Charge of OCD-ARMM, emphasized the importance of advance warning of an earthquake, so it is only a must take on serious security measures ahead of time and be able to learn how to properly respond.

“I take this opportune time to sincerely thank the MDRRMC of Upi and the rest of the actors which resulted to the success of this very significant event. Until the next quarter, let’s do the DUCK, COVER, and HOLD once more,” said Alicias.

Engr. Amier Ashan Aplal, Operations Officer of OCD-ARMM, said it is essential to understand the procedures so we can save more lives.

“When you are situated indoor and a large earthquake occurs, you should avoid moving objects, objects that may fall from, and even broken glass. If you are outside, find an open space and avoid buildings and trees. Keep a safe distance from man-made structures that are taller than you and do the duck and cover head at least with hands. For some who maybe are driving along the streets, you should temporarily stop your automobiles in a safe place,” said Aplal.

Accordingly, earthquakes are unique challenges to our communities. Unlike other natural or man-made hazards, it occurs with no warning. But with proper training and advance proper planning, our communities can be prepared to react appropriately during and after an earthquake.

Members of the evaluation team during the drill include representatives from OCD-ARMM, PAGASA, DILG-ARMM, and BFP-ARMM. (GILMHAR A. LAO, Information Officer-OCD ARMM/MINDANAO EXPOSE’)