SAN FERNANDO CITY, La Union (PIA) — The Office of Civil Defense (OCD) highlights the importance of proper and efficient communication within and among national government agencies to better implement disaster response in the Ilocos Region.
Bianne Camille Rellamas, civil defense officer of the OCD, explained that ensuring efficient communication requires a structured division of responsibilities among government agencies.
“The cluster approach allows agencies to work together to provide immediate and sustained assistance during disasters. It prevents miscommunication and ensures the efficient allocation of resources,” Rellamas stated.
The Ilocos Region plays a vital role in national disaster response, using communication-driven coordination to improve emergency management.
When a disaster strikes, the nearest safe region is designated as the National Emergency Operations Center (EOC) to lead response efforts.
In a recent earthquake drill, Region 1 was assigned as the National EOC after a simulated Magnitude 7.2 earthquake struck Metro Manila.
If national authorities lose communication, Region 1 takes over operations, demonstrating how clear lines of communication are crucial in real disaster scenarios.
Regular earthquake and disaster drills further enhance emergency preparedness by ensuring that local communities and responders know proper safety procedures, such as “Duck, Cover, and Hold.”
These exercises also test communication systems, making sure that information flows efficiently between agencies.
The effectiveness of these efforts was evident during the offshore earthquakes in Sta. Catalina, Ilocos Sur and the series of strong typhoons that hit the region in late 2024.
Government agencies maintained seamless communication, allowing quick deployment of aid and resources to affected areas.
Adreanne L. Pagsolingan, OCD Ilocos Region’s Public Information Officer, emphasized the significance of earthquake preparedness and the role of regular drills in ensuring public safety
“This drill not only prepares the public but also allows improvement areas to test and refine their disaster response plans, highlighting best practices and areas for improvement,” Pagsolingan said.
By strengthening communication networks, the Ilocos Region is making disaster preparedness more effective, ensuring that communities receive timely and coordinated assistance before, during, and after emergencies. (CCMT/AIHR/LEG, PIA Region 1)
