As part of its efforts in widening the scope of its disaster response and emergency rescue capabilities, the Antipolo City local government conferred 10 new groups of volunteers of its Community Disaster Volunteer Network on Thursday, Aug. 10.
Antipolo City Mayor Jun Ynares personally welcomed the new groups of volunteers:
-SAF RIDERS
-ACCRC
-HOPE Rescue
-1870
-PCACCG
-DRCG
-Philippine Red Cross Rizal
-CPT-RIMT
-ATARDAR
-Youth Volunteers
"Lubos po tayong nagpapasalamat sa members ng ating Antipolo City Community Disaster Volunteer Network sa kanilang commitment na pangalagaan at tiyakin ang kapakanan ng bawat Antipolenyo. Hanga kami sa inyong determinasyon at dedikasyon na makatulong at itaya ang buhay ng walang hinihinging kapalit (We are extremely grateful to the members of our Antipolo City Community Disaster Volunteer Network for their unwavering commitment in ensuring the safety and welfare of each Antipolenyo. We are proud of your determination and dedication to help and risk your lives without asking for anything in return)," Ynares said.
The city government also provided uniforms, emergency kits, and insurance that will be used by the groups.
The mayor said those who wish to be a part of the volunteer network can proceed to the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO) to fill up their registration form and submit the following requirements:
- Letter of intent
- Brgy. Certification
- Photo copy of valid ID
- Authorization letter for minors
The city government had previously tapped the city's tricycle drivers as first aiders during emergency situations.
Ynares said 300 members of the Antipolo Tricycle Operators and Drivers Association (TODA) were taught first aid and basic life support techniques to prepare them to become first aiders during emergencies.
The initial batch of tricycle drivers were given training on the basic procedure to save a person in distress or those involved in accidents on the road.
As they are out most of the time transporting passengers, the TODA members are the first who can swiftly call for help or respond should there be a road accident or an emergency incident.