Manila Mayor Francisco “Isko Moreno” Domagoso has affirmed the city’s readiness for major disasters, including the anticipated “Big One” earthquake, by launching the distribution of Emergency Go Bags to public school students and teachers.
The distribution of survival kits, packed with essential items such as first aid kits, protective gear, food and water packs, multi-functional tools, and emergency communication equipment, is part of the city’s strategy to disaster preparedness in schools and communities.
Domagoso emphasized that the city government has adequate facilities, trained professionals, and logistical capacity to respond effectively when disaster strikes.
“So, sa facility, meron, professionals, meron, capacity in terms of transport, meron, gamot, na-stabilize na natin ang mga supplies,” he said.
He added that the Manila City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MCDRRMO), led by Director Arnel Angeles, is equipped to respond to earthquakes and other calamities.
Domagoso has directed all city departments to conduct regular disaster preparedness exercises and simulations, especially in light of the recent series of earthquakes felt across the country.
“To all department heads, this is now a directive, that in any given day from today onwards, you must conduct exercises. At any given hour, it doesn’t have to be all of us at once. Even per department is fine, so as not to disrupt services. Kailangan nating maghanda,” he said.
While acknowledging the uncertainty surrounding the potential damage of “The Big One,” Domagoso stressed that the city continues to strengthen its emergency response capabilities. A massive drill will soon be conducted in all 896 barangays of Manila.
According to the MCDRRMO, each Emergency Go Bag contains critical items designed to help individuals survive in the immediate aftermath of a disaster.
In addition to drills and Go Bag distribution, the city regularly holds disaster preparedness seminars and forums to educate residents on safety protocols and the locations of evacuation and triage sites throughout Manila. (Patrick Garcia)
