CLARK FREEPORT -- A shopping mall in Olongapo City joined the recently concluded nationwide earthquake drill.

SM City Olongapo Central participated in the 4th quarter Nationwide Simultaneous Earthquake Drill (NSED) on November 14, 2019 along with their tenants, affiliates, agencies and employees.

The City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO), joined by the Philippine Red Cross Olongapo Chapter, Bureau of Fire Protection, PNP, Barangay East Tapinac and SM City Olongapo employees held a short briefing after the drill and gave comments and evaluation on the aspects that need to be improved.

The new SM Olongapo Central, like SM Olongapo Downtown, actively support the NSED to instill a culture of disaster preparedness among employees and promote disaster awareness.

The NSED is done to evaluate the effectiveness of the mall’s contingency plans and protocols in relation to earthquake scenarios and other similar events.

"Disasters and emergencies can come at any time, especially when we least expect it. Being prepared and properly equipped can save lives and mitigate damage. With the help of the local government units and the community, all the preparations were all worth it because everyone did their part," SM Olongapo Central assistant mall manager Ariel Ferrer said.