In observance of the National Disaster Resilience Month, the Davao City Risk Reduction and Management Office (DCRRMO) will conduct its 2nd Citywide Shake Out at 9 a.m. on July 27, 2018.
DCRRMO administrative officer Lyndon Ancalas appealed for the cooperation of Dabawenyos in the Shake Out Drill as it will help them respond to natural disasters like earthquakes and tsunamis.
“The purpose of conducting the drill is to develop disaster resilience in our communities. It is very important that they know how to prepare during and after an earthquake,” Ancajas said.
Ancajas also said this year’s earthquake and tsunami drill will focus on hospitals because these are considered as critical establishments during disasters.
“One of the key establishments that needs to be intact or running are the hospitals because we have injured people. They have to be there to cater to the needs of the patients,” Ancajas said.
The event will be participated by Dabawenyos from the private and public sector, barangays, schools, and government agencies. Malls and hotels and other private companies also announced their support for the Citywide Shake Out.
Ancajas also added that coastal barangays in the city will also participate this year so that they’ll know the dos and don’ts in case of tsunamis.
Last year July 14, there were half a million Dabawenyos who participated in the first citywide Shake Out Drill.
For this year DCCRMO will also be setting-up a “field hospital” where the “injured” will be brought.
City Administrator lawyer Zuleika T. Lopez said preparedness and alertness are essential in reducing rates of casualties and fatalities during disasters.
“It is important that we take part and we know the basic things to do when there is a disaster, we should always have presence of mind,” Lopez said.
Lopez also encouraged Dabawenyos to participate in the drill. She also added that through constant practice by actively involving in natural preparedness drills, Dabawenyos will be ready to respond properly in the midst of disasters.