The local governments of Caloocan, Malabon, and Valenzuela cities participated in the 1st Quarter National Simultaneous Earthquake Drill (NSED) on Thursday, March 12, to strengthen disaster preparedness and promote proper response during earthquakes.

In Caloocan City, personnel of the Caloocan City Police Station conducted the earthquake drill at around 3:30 p.m. as part of the nationwide activity. Prior to the drill, a briefing was held to guide participants on proper earthquake response procedures.

Police personnel and on-the-job trainees participated in the activity, which aimed to improve readiness, coordination, and awareness in responding to potential earthquake emergencies.

Meanwhile, in Malabon City, the drill was led by the Malabon Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO) in coordination with the Malabon City Police Station, the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), and several city government departments.

The activity was held at Malabon City Hall and along F. Sevilla Boulevard, where participants performed the “Duck, Cover, and Hold” procedure to simulate safety measures during an earthquake.

Evacuation drills, search-and-rescue simulations, facility inspections, and damage assessments were also conducted to test the city’s emergency response systems.

Mayor Jeannie Sandoval said the activity helps raise awareness and promote coordination in protecting lives during disasters.

“Ang paglahok sa 1st Quarter National Simultaneous Earthquake Drill ay mahalaga dahil hindi lang nito ibinibigay ang mga kaalaman, kundi isinusulong din nito ang pagkakaisa sa pamamagitan ng pagpapalakas ng mas sistematikong paraan ng pagprotekta sa buhay ng bawat isa lalo na kung may lindol o iba pang kalamidad (Participation in the 1st Quarter National Simultaneous Earthquake Drill is important because it not only provides knowledge but also promotes unity by strengthening a more systematic way of protecting everyone’s lives, especially during earthquakes or other disasters),” Sandoval said.

In Valenzuela City, employees and residents also joined the earthquake drill at the Valenzuela City Hall to improve emergency preparedness and awareness.

Authorities said the activity aims to strengthen disaster readiness and ensure proper coordination during earthquakes and other emergencies.