DAVAO CITY—The Davao City Risk Reduction Management Office has urged Dabawenyos to participate in the 2nd Citywide Shake Out Drill on July 27.
Lyndon Ancajas, DCRRMO Administrative Officer, said it is important for Dabawenyos to participate in the drill so they would know what to do in times of disasters such as an earthquake and tsunami.
“The purpose of conducting the drill is to develop disaster resilience in our communities. It is very important that they know how to prepare during and after an earthquake,” he said.
Ancajas said it was important for people to immediately know what to do in case that any response team cannot immediately respond to a situation.
The DCRRMO Admin Officer said the drill will be participated in by people from the private and public sector, barangays, schools, and government agencies; and private companies such as malls and hotels.
Ancajas also said that this year’s earthquake and tsunami drill will center on hospitals, which is considered among the most vital establishments during disasters.
“One of the key establishments that needs to be intact or running are the hospitals because we have injured people. They have to be there to cater to the needs of the patients,” he said.
During the drill, the DCRRMO will also set-up a “field hospital” for the first time, where the “injured” will be placed.
Ancajas added that private establishments have signified their commitment to participate in the drill by communicating their evacuation plan to the DCRRMO.
City Administrator Zuleika T. Lopez also said that the key to minimizing the loss of lives and properties during a disaster, whether it’s an earthquake or a tsunami, is preparedness and alertness.
“It is important that we take part and we know the basic things to do when there is a disaster, we should always have presence of mind,” Lopez said.
She also encouraged everyone to participate in the drill, not only employees of the government, but also their families.
“Practice makes perfect. If ever a disaster happens, we will not be at a loss on what to do – we will be ready,” Lopez added.
The earthquake and tsunami drill will begin at 9 a.m.
Last year, the first citywide Shake Out Drill – which was conducted on July 14 had 500,000 participants coming from private and public sectors.