National Simultaneous Earthquake Drill
Sirens blaring, fire trucks and ambulances standing by, workers and local residents going down their buildings to an open space, medics and rescuers are on the run to respond to the call of duty. These are some of the scenes during the holding of the nationwide simultaneous earthquake drill last July 23 at the Bonifacio Global City (BGC) in Taguig.
The earthquake drill through the initiative of the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) was executed by the Taguig City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (DRRMO) in coordination with the Bonifacio Global City (BGC) community to assess their capability in responding to disasters, most especially in the event of a 7.2 magnitude earthquake.
“They say that we cannot really prevent disasters from happening, but preparing and training the community is key to survival. That is why I am thankful and pleased to see the BGC community moving towards cooperation, coordinating and training,” Mayor Lani said.
Aside from Taguig, the drill was conducted simultaneously in other parts of Metro Manila.
Also in attendance were secretary of National Defense & NDRRMC Chairperson Hon. Voltaire T. Gazmin, usec. Alexander Pama of the Office of Civil Defense, PHIVOLCS Director Renato Solidum Jr., Bonifacio Art Foundation Inc. Managing Director Manny Blas II, MMDA Chairman Atty. Francis Tolentino, and MMDA General Manager Corazon Jimenez.