San Juan City Mayor Francis Zamora urged all local governments in the country to prepare for disasters and calamities as the Philippines continues to experience strong earthquakes in succession in the past weeks.

Zamora made the call on Monday, Oct. 13, as he underscored the importance of preparation and cooperation between the government and the public.

"In light of the recent earthquakes that have struck our nation, concerns continue to grow that the “Big One” could hit Metro Manila at any time. I urge all our citizens—not only those from the National Capital Region (NCR) but also from all regions across our country—to recognize their crucial role in disaster preparedness. Your vigilance and active participation can greatly help save lives and minimize property damage. To this end, I encourage my fellow mayors to continue strengthening capacity-building programs for disaster management officers, staff, and our citizens. I also urge our local officials to ensure that all local government units are adequately equipped with emergency vehicles, equipment, and supplies to enable a prompt and effective response in the event of a disaster," Zamora, who also serves as the president of the Metro Manila Council (MMC) and national president of the League of Cities of the Phiippines (LCP), said.

"Furthermore, I recommend the strict and continuous monitoring by the Offices of the Building Official (OBO) of both government buildings and private establishments, to certify the structural integrity of these infrastructures and ensure public safety," he added.

The mayor appealed for the public's continued vigilance and disaster preparedness, saying that it is a shared responsibility to always be ready.

"During an earthquake, remain calm, take cover under a sturdy object, stay away from glass windows and unstable structures, and move to open areas when it is safe to do so. Familiarize yourselves with the designated evacuation sites near your homes, schools, and workplaces. Your local governments stand ready to assist you, but your immediate response in the crucial first hours after a disaster can make a significant difference in ensuring your safety and that of your loved ones," he stressed.

In San Juan City, the city government ensured its readiness in case of disasters and calamities.

Since March of this year, the city had distributed Emergency Go Bags to San Juaneños, which contains emergency supplies and first aid items that can be used to survive when disaster strikes.

Zamora said each Go Bag contains a raincoat, USB rechargeable flashlight, 5000mAh power bank, 12-hour glow stick, and a first aid kit containing Basic Disaster Preparedness Module, emergency contact card, triangular bandage, elastic bandage, adhesive bandage strips, emergency blanket, alcohol pad, Povidone Iodine, whistle, and scissors.

He noted that the city government, particularly its City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO), regularly conducts simulations and exercises to guarantee their preparedness.

Barangay seminars and forums are also being held to educate residents on what to do in times of calamities.

Zamora also emphasized the importance of maintaining rescue equipment, emergency vehicles and trained personnel for immediate deployment.