First quarter drill

Last Friday, several institutions in Cebu participated in the simultaneous earthquake drill that simulated a 7.8-magnitude shake --much stronger than the one that hit Bohol in 2013. When the siren went off, there were those who thought twice before actually doing the protocol of having to duck, cover, and hold. When their assigned person told them that the coast was clear, they immediately went out of the building holding a sturdy object over their heads to protect them from make-believe falling objects. Some took it seriously while others didn't. There were also those who only did it for the sake of participating in a mandatory drill.

The National Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council didn't give us a pass or fail grade but rather pointed out areas of improvement. One example was the employees of the Cebu Provincial Capitol who tried to seek safety under a tree. It is common knowledge not to look for refuge under objects such as a tree or a post since it may be prone to falling as well when aftershocks take place. Another one was the slow response of the emergency team who took time to evaluate whether or not the establishment was safe for entering. One of those who acted as injured commented that if it were real life, she would have already died from blood loss. Luckily, those who waited for the pretend patients at the Cebu City Medical Center moved swiftly to cover up for the lost time.

In some countries like Japan, they take their drills seriously as they know that the disaster could hit their area at any moment. They know by heart the basic protocols and would not panic if ever it would happen. There is a certain type of discipline in them that allows them to go above events that are beyond their control. It is quite admirable how their race knows how to manage devastating occurrences.

Yet, here we are, laughing off the thought of finding a sturdy table once an earthquake is simulated. It is quite sad to note that despite the countless efforts of government agencies warning us to prepare, it seems like the progress is slow. I'm not saying that there is none but it feels like baby steps.

NDRRMC brought with them a geohazard map and showed it to the head of the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office, Baltazar Tribunalo. In it were the different areas in the Cebu Province which may be likely hit by an earthquake based on the terrain and faultlines. It is very real, thus a thing that is no joke. We should be bracing ourselves for the worst that could come even if there are no omens. It is better to prepare than do nothing at all.

There are still three other drills that would be happening this year. Evaluations will still take place. Only then will we know if the people will learn and put into their mind and heart the importance of being prepared.

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