Following a recent earthquake that caused widespread panic among students, the local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (DRRMO) is shifting its focus from physical drills to psychological preparedness. DRRMO head Charles Bryan Carame reported that the shaking triggered a chain reaction of distress, highlighting a critical gap in how schools manage emergency situations beyond basic evacuation procedures.
Did You Know? The city is planning to introduce unannounced earthquake drills in the future, a move officials are currently studying to better evaluate how schools and communities react to emergencies in real-time.
Expanding Disaster Response Training
These programs aim to equip both students and responders with more technical skills for crisis management.
From July 20 to 24, the DRRMO will collaborate with the Bureau of Fire Protection for crash vehicle extrication training. During the same period, the agency will host advanced Geographic Information Systems (GIS) training alongside the Philippine Disaster Resilience Foundation. The month-long safety campaign is set to conclude on July 30 with an awards ceremony for disaster response volunteers and winners of an educational video competition.
Youth Resilience and Future Preparedness
A primary goal for the city is the launch of the Youth Resilience Boot Camp in August. This program will provide participants with hands-on training in disaster management, including cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR).
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the new focus on student resilience?
DRRMO head Charles Bryan Carame noted that panic spread rapidly among students during a recent quake, which created a chain reaction of distress that the current drill system did not fully mitigate.
What specific training will be available in August?
The city will launch a Youth Resilience Boot Camp that includes instruction in disaster management and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR).
Are there plans to change how earthquake drills are conducted?
Yes, city officials are currently studying the possibility of implementing unannounced earthquake drills to better assess real-time responses in schools and communities.
How would you feel about your local school district conducting unannounced emergency drills to test preparedness?
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