The Lanao del Sur Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office (PDRRMO) spearheaded the conduct of the fourth quarter national simultaneous earthquake drill (NSED) in Mindanao State University (MSU) main campus here, November 9.
In partnership with the Marawi City DRRMO, MSU, Bureau of Fire Protection, Lanao del Sur Police Provincial Office, Philippine Army, and other local DRRMOs, the disaster preparedness drill was participated by the faculty and students of MSU College of Sports, Physical Education and Recreation, and the National Service Training Program (NSTP).
PDRRMO Head Shaminoden Sambitory said they held the fourth quarter NSED at the university to provide earthquake preparedness training to the faculty and students, especially since the university has thousands of students.
"These drills are important as we prepare the staff and students with the necessary knowledge on how to react immediately and appropriately when an earthquake strikes. These significantly reduce accidents and loss of lives. We have key important things in this kind of drill," he said.
In addition to providing information to teachers and students, Sambitory said they also want to provide technical assistance to the newly established MSU DRRMO on how to conduct earthquake drills.
MSU Marawi Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs Dr. Amerkhan Cabaro thanked the PDRRMO and other stakeholders for conducting the drill at MSU, and for their unwavering dedication to the community's welfare.
He also reminded the students to take to heart and understand the importance of the drill, especially since natural hazards such as earthquakes are unpredictable.
"Napakaimportante na maunawaan natin. We must understand the risk associated with this activity. We should learn how to respond effectively. The most important thing is the response. By actively participating in this exercise, you are taking a significant step towards ensuring your safety and of those around you--your family," he said.
During the earthquake drill, participants learned the key things to remember in times of disaster, such as making an alarm to inform students of the danger; covering their heads and holding position until the earthquake subsides; assembling in an open space away from buildings and other structures that may fall; and conducting a roll call to check if anyone is missing or injured so they can be rescued soonest. (JND/PIA-10/Lanao del Sur)
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