Talisay sets quake evacuation drill

CEBU, Philippines - The city government of Talisay has announced that it will temporarily suspend its operations on Friday next week to make way for the conduct of an earthquake evacuation drill as part of National Disaster Consciousness Month and in consonance of its disaster preparedness program.

Talisay City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council officer Vince Monterde said the drill will be participated by workers from the City Hall, Cebu 2nd Engineering District, Talisay City College and Talisay City Schools Division Office.

Monterde said the drill's aim is to increase awareness on safety guidelines and precautions during an earthquake among the city government workforce and other government workers holding offices at City Hall.

According to Monterde, after the drill, the City Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council, Bureau of Fire and Penology and Public Information Office will evaluate the performance of the participants and responders of the activity.

"This drill will highlight the importance of disaster risk reduction mechanisms and management in the city, including safe rescue capability, expertise and training such as safety drills," Monterde said.

Aside from the City Hall workers, 78 public and private schools in the city will also join the drill.

Doctor Byrcelles Daan, the focal person of the City Schools Division, said the head teacher, the Parents-Teachers Association and representatives from the barangays will give their assessment on the drill.

Monterde stressed that the conduct of the drill is not only a matter of compliance with the directive from the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council, but to inform enable everyone to become ready when calamity strikes. — Garry B. Lao (FREEMAN)