DAVAO CITY – The city government of Mati partnered with the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology on Tuesday, Nov. 5, to strengthen local preparedness for tsunami hazards.
PHIVOLCS seal
Mati City and Phivolcs signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to enhance community awareness and preparedness through various educational and community-focused initiatives in line with the observance of World Tsunami Awareness Day 2024.
According to the city government, the initiative from July to November this year includes a comprehensive series of activities centered on earthquake and tsunami hazard awareness, risk reduction, and community involvement.
The key campaign component is the “Tsunami InfoSerYe,” a public information drive leveraging social media, billboards, and text message (SMS) alerts to disseminate essential tsunami safety information across Mati City, fostering a culture of vigilance and preparedness.
One of the core events is the pre-WTAD seminar titled “Earthquake and Tsunami Hazards and Community Preparedness” that will provide vital information, education, and communication materials to various participants.
Phivolcs will supply resource persons and expertise while the Mati City government will handle venue arrangements, logistics, and participant support.
The observance culminates on Nov. 5 with a series of activities in the city.
It includes the five-kilometer “Tsunami Run for Safety” designed to promote fitness and awareness, a disaster risk reduction exhibit, and a press conference titled “Kapihan sa Baywalk” discussing disaster mitigation efforts and engaging with the public on best practices for safety protocols.
Mati City Mayor Michelle Nakpil Rabat affirmed their commitment to the partnership, underscoring the city’s dedication to fostering a resilient community equipped to handle natural hazards.
Phivolcs Director Dr. Teresito C. Bacolcol emphasized the agency’s mission to empower local governments and communities to respond effectively to possible disasters and said that the MOU outlines the roles and responsibilities of both parties.
Phivolcs will spearhead the technical preparations and provide expert guidance while Mati City manages local coordination, participant engagement, and promotional efforts.
Rabat said the partnership represents a significant step towards strengthening Mati City’s preparedness and resilience in the face of tsunami risks and aligns with the broader national WTAD observance.
An exhibit at the Mayor FGR Park and Baywalk showcases disaster preparedness efforts from various agencies, including interactive rescue equipment displays by the CDRRMO and booths from Philippine Coast Guard and Phivolcs, among others, highlighting roles in the community.
“Through educational campaigns, hands-on experiences, and active community engagement, Mati City equips its residents with the knowledge and tools to face natural hazards,” the city government said.
It added that the city’s ongoing dedication to safety and preparedness is a model for proactive disaster resilience, ensuring that Mati City and its citizens are well-prepared to confront potential risks.