LAMUT, Ifugao (PIA) –In its continuing efforts to foster a culture of emergency preparedness and disaster resilience, the Ifugao State University (IFSU) recently conducted earthquake drills involving various stakeholders.
Over 1,500 participants composed of students, employees, and visitors, took part in the 4th Quarter Nationwide Simultaneous Earthquake Drill(NSED) held at the IFSU main campus in Lamut.
The IFSU-Student Emergency Response Team (SERT) also showcased a simulated rescue operation. The demonstration featured safety and security, triage, rescue, and transport.
Key agencies such as the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) – Ifugao, Lamut Fire Station and Nayon Substation, the Philippine National Police- Special Action Force 115SAC, the Lamut Municipal Police Station, and the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office evaluated the preparedness and performance of the participants during the drill.
University DRRM Chairperson Marveluz C. Daniels highlighted the institution’s commitment to improving emergency preparedness.
“We will continue to conduct drills, training sessions, and seminars for employees and staff to ensure they are better equipped to handle emergencies,” she said.
Daniels shared that the IFSU-SERT was recently accredited as an official university student organization. Composed of over 100 student members who have undergone training in Basic Life Support, First Aid, rescue operations, and other emergency response skills, the SERT plays a vital role in promoting preparedness and resilience within the campus and the wider community.
The group actively participates in simulation exercises, volunteers as medics during campus events, and organizes extension activities to benefit the local community.
The IFSU- Aguinaldo Campus also participated in the NSED in partnership with the BFP-Aguinaldo led by SFO3 Melvin B. Magguling.
The activities included evacuation drills, rescue simulations, and emergency medical response practice, providing participants with hands-on experience in handling disaster situations. Students trained in first aid and rescue operations applied their knowledge during realistic earthquake scenarios.
The BFP-Aguinaldo team played a vital role in guiding and supporting the participants, ensuring that the simulations were conducted safely and effectively.
There were also lectures on rescue protocols, disaster response strategies, and safety practices during earthquakes. (JDP/FBR-PIA CAR, Ifugao)
