The Philippines held its first nationwide earthquake drill of 2025 in Laguna, engaging over 1,300 local entities. OCD chief Nepomuceno stated this drill tests readiness for a potential 7.2 magnitude earthquake. He emphasized the importance of knowledge in disaster preparedness and suggested using social media to enhance community awareness. A recent survey showed significant gaps in the region’s disaster readiness despite being in a high-risk area.
The Philippines conducted its first nationwide earthquake drill of 2025 on March 13 in Santa Rosa, Laguna, engaging over 1,300 local government units and private sector participants. Simulation exercises included damage assessments, hazardous materials responses, search and rescue operations, and evacuations of children with learning difficulties. This drill serves as a test of the preparedness of the national and local governments for a potential magnitude 7.2 earthquake, known as the ‘Big One’.
During a press conference, Undersecretary Ariel Nepomuceno of the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) emphasized that this drill evaluates the capabilities of government bodies to respond effectively to significant earthquakes. He acknowledged that the country is lagging in disaster preparedness, stating, “We have a lot of catching up to do.”
Nepomuceno referenced the Philippines’ high ranking on the World Risk Index to illustrate ongoing challenges, asserting the necessity of persistent efforts in disaster readiness. Additionally, a 2024 survey revealed low disaster preparedness scores in the National Capital Region, despite its location in the earthquake-prone Pacific Ring of Fire.
Duplicative plans among cities for disaster management were deemed essential by Nepomuceno. Social Welfare Undersecretary Diane Cajipe highlighted that disaster preparedness is a shared responsibility between the government and citizens, saying, “Knowledge is something that each one of us should have because that would save us.”
Cajipe pointed out that having excellent plans on paper is futile unless widely understood, suggesting community-based education as a strategy. She advocated for utilizing social media to disseminate essential disaster preparedness information effectively, focusing on local efforts to improve community awareness and readiness. Although earthquakes are unpredictable, ongoing scientific research aids in enhancing governmental planning and community safety protocols.
The first nationwide earthquake drill of 2025 highlighted significant gaps in the Philippines’ disaster preparedness, underscored by Undersecretary Nepomuceno’s call for improvement. The collaboration between government units and citizens is crucial for effective preparedness. Furthermore, leveraging community education and social media can enhance awareness and response to future earthquakes, as the country continues to address its vulnerability to disasters.
Original Source: www.rappler.com
