By DIANN IVY CALUCIN
The local governments of Caloocan, Malabon, Navotas, Valenzuela, and Quezon Cities participated in the 4th Quarter Nationwide Simultaneous Earthquake Drill (NSED) on Thursday, Nov. 10.
Public school students, government employees, and barangay officials in Malabon City conducted the "Duck, Cover, and Hold" exercise.
"Layon ng aktibidad na masigurong may sapat na kaalaman at kahandaan ang bawat isa upang maging ligtas sa panganib na dulot ng lindol (The purpose of the activity is to ensure that everyone has necessary knowledge and preparedness to be safe from the danger caused by the earthquake)," the Malabon City government said.
The Navotas City government also participated in NSED led by the city's Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (DRRMO).
The local government said the exercise aims to sustain the knowledge of government staff about the proper implementation of Duck, Cover, and Hold and other protocols whenever there is a disaster.
All barangay officials in the city als0 conducted earthquake drills in their respective areas.
In line with NSED, Valenzuela City's rescue team also organized earthquake drills at the city's DRRMO Training Center.
The VCDRRMO's quick response to incidents was performed and demonstrated before the city government employees.
The Quezon City DRRMO also carried out various activities, including fire suppression, high-angle rescue, debris clearing, alternative temporary shelter, construction of treatment and triage facilities, distribution of hot meals, rapid damage assessment and needs analysis, management of the dead and the missing, and looting incidents.
The QCDRRMO showcased its rescue equipment, such as robotic fire extinguishing vehicles, ambulances, and fire trucks used for high-rise buildings.
The activities were participated in by QC local government employees.
NSED is an activity held in the Philippines that seeks to test the efficiency and effectiveness of the local government units, offices, and schools' preparedness, response, contingency and recovery plans, and policies.