Abra strengthens disaster readiness
BANGUED, Abra -- Abrenios are now being educated and trained on disaster preparedness even at a young age to learn to minimize the effects of calamities.
In his message during the culmination program of the month-long observance of this year's Disaster Awareness and Preparedness Month, Governor Eustaquio P. Bersamin said, "the life you save may be your own or your family and so, we need to learn how to be prepared all the time."
An on-the spot poster making contest among the secondary schools was conducted during the culmination program on July 30.
The winners were: First Prize - Gerald Ace Bulao of the Little Flower High School of Penarrubia with Benilda Balmaceda as coach; second prize was garnered by Mark Lester Gallo of Manabo National High with Mr. Ricalito Sagao as his coach; and third prize was bagged by Aljhune Mendoza of the Rosalio Eduarte National High School of Talogtog, Dolores with Mr. Marcelino Ucol, Jr. as his coach.
The first, second, and third prizes got a cash prize of P1,500; P1,000 and P800 each respectively while a consolation prize of P500.00 was given to all the non-winning contestants.
The winners were likewise given certificates of recognition together with their coaches. Certificates of appreciation were likewise given to all the non-winners and their coaches.
Frank Asia, Dion Ross Alcid and Delfin Ardaniel served as board of judges.
Determined to attain the target of zero casualty during calamities in the province, the Disaster Coordinating Council adopted a continuing information education campaign even after the culmination program.
Last August 4, the council sponsored a trainers' training on earthquake preparedness. Engr. Jojo Valera and Mr. Alex Uy of the Office of Civil Defense - CAR were the main lecturers and facilitators during the training. (Maritess Beñas)