CAMIGUIN (PIA) — “The province of Camiguin will be officially recognized as a benchmark on how other provinces must do preparations and responses,” says Ariel Nepomuceno, Office of Civil Defense (OCD) administrator.
As the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) conducted the 4th Quarter Nationwide Simultaneous Earthquake Drill (NSED) in Camiguin on November 14, Nepomuceno said Camiguin province is one good example, a gold standard, on how things should be done properly in terms of disaster response capabilities.
The administrator emphasized that their approach to comprehensive preparedness—from waste management to typhoon readiness—sets an example for communities nationwide.
Camiguin Gov. Xavier Jesus Romualdo echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the significance of collective resilience. “Today, we gather not only to conduct a drill but to reinforce our commitment to preparedness, coordination, and resilience. Our duty as leaders is to ensure that our communities are equipped to respond swiftly and effectively,” he said, encouraging participants to approach the exercise with seriousness and vigilance.
Emphasizing ongoing tsunami awareness efforts and their relevance in conducting the drill, Chief Science Research Specialist Ma. Antonia Bornas said the fourth quarter NSED coincides with the observance of World Tsunami Awareness Day, as designated by the United Nations in 2015.
“In support of this, the NDRMMC, National Disaster Reduction and Management Council, through the Office of Civil Defense, released guidelines in 2017,” she added.
Officials, responders, and over 800 participants conducted the drill at the Cong. PPR Tourism and Sports Complex in Mambajao, simulating a high-magnitude earthquake followed by a tsunami that would affect areas like Mambajao and Catarman.
The NDRRMC designed the exercise to mimic the impact of a 6.8-magnitude earthquake, generating tsunami waves along the coast. The simulation included aftershocks rated at Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology Earthquake Intensity Scale (PEIS) levels II to IV, testing the coordination and resilience of local responders, government agencies, and the community at large.
“There are so many things that we have to do. Let’s do our best; let’s perfect our talents, because you will only be able to save your loved ones if you will also be able to save yourselves. Let’s work together in our difficult mission to save our fellow countrymen,” Nepomuceno said. (RTP/PIA-10/Camiguin)
