By: Abraham Reign Magbiro
Photo courtesy of Maverick Rhoy De Vera | The LANCE
Students, faculty, staff, and stakeholders of Letran-Manila participated in a Intramuros-wide earthquake drill on Friday, Jan. 30, with Manila City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO) and local disaster authorities to test emergency procedures aimed at strengthening disaster preparedness and testing emergency response systems.
The exercise consisted of local government units (LGUs), the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), Philippine National Police (PNP), and civic organizations to simulate a 7.0-magnitude earthquake to assess evacuation procedures, communication systems, and coordination among institutions and residents.
MDRRMO officer Bryan Chow stressed that individuals should consistently apply proper safety measures during tremors, regardless of their intensity.
“Ngayon kasi sa mga drills napapansin naman natin na ‘yung iba, hindi ina-apply, pero kapag dumating kasi ‘yung ‘the big one’ ‘yung talagang malakas na lindol e napaka-vital ng duck, cover, and hold,” Officer Chow said.
“Why? Dahil kapag nagkaroon ng tremor na ganoon kalakas, hindi ka makakatayo, hindi ka makakalakad.”
He explained that during strong earthquakes, people should immediately take cover under sturdy furniture, protect their heads, and hold on until the shaking stops.
Officer Chow also advised participants to evacuate only after tremors subside and to prioritize safety over personal belongings.
“Iwan natin ‘yung mga belongings natin, hindi natin kailangan ‘yan, ang number one priority natin is ‘yung buhay,” he said.
Officer Chow further encouraged the use of a “buddy system” during evacuations, familiarity with designated assembly areas, and awareness of emergency contact numbers. He also emphasized the importance of preparing everyday carry (EDC) or emergency kits at home and in workplaces.“Para in case magkaroon ng sakuna, isang bitbitan lang, and nandun na lahat ng vitals na kailangan natin,”
According to Officer Chow, regular drills help develop discipline and automatic responses during emergencies.
“Kapag isinasapuso natin ang drills, nagiging second nature na ito,” he said. “Hindi lang instinct ang gagamitin natin, alam na natin ang tamang gagawin.”
Meanwhile, Asst. Prof. Leo N. Bernadas, Director of Department of Student Affairs (DSA) highlighted the role of information campaigns and institutional orientations in strengthening disaster awareness among students and employees.
“The information campaign is very important,” Asst. Prof. Bernadas said. “It educates students on the specific procedures and steps to take during an earthquake.”
Asst. Prof. Bernadas said Letran’s participation in the Intramuros disaster preparedness program, reflects the institution’s commitment to coordinated disaster response.
He noted that preparations involved several campus units, including the Emergency Response Team and student support offices, followed by institutional orientations conducted in different venues.
He added that teachers play a critical role in guiding students during emergencies, especially in classrooms and common areas.
“The teacher is one of the mainstays of the students,” Bernadas said. “If they know the procedures, they can guide the students properly.”
Local authorities and school administrators encouraged residents, students, and business owners to actively participate in future disaster preparedness activities and to follow official advisories to minimize risks during emergencies.