USTP Panaon conducts 3rd quarter NSED
By Jahziel Bren G. Lapura, USTP Panaon Student Affairs Office
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September 26, 2024 – The University of Science and Technology of Southern Philippines in Panaon, Misamis Occidental (USTP Panaon) successfully conducted the 3rd Quarter National Simultaneous Earthquake Drill (NSED) led by Mr. Elmer S. Udal, Senior Fire Officer 1 (SFO1) of the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) and Mr. Harold E. Mangao, Head of the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO) of Panaon.
The earthquake drill simulated a high-intensity earthquake prompting students, faculty, and staff to practice the duck, cover, and hold technique.
SFO1 Udal played a significant role in overseeing the event and ensuring the safety of all participants, and Mr. Mangao provided support by coordinating emergency response protocols and assessing the campus community’s readiness. Evacuation procedures were swiftly carried out as participants moved to designated safe areas in the campus.
Mr. Udal commended the participants for their discipline and quick response during the drill. He emphasized the importance of continuous training stating, “Drills like this are crucial to ensure that in the event of a real earthquake, everyone knows how to respond effectively and minimize injuries or casualties.”
“The coordination between the University, BFP, and MDRRMO was excellent, and the response time met the standards. We encourage everyone to stay vigilant and always be prepared,” Mr. Mangao also expressed with satisfaction.
The BFP and MDRRMO of Panaon rated the university’s preparedness as satisfactory. Both agencies emphasized the importance of continued collaboration in building a culture of safety and resilience, particularly in earthquake-prone areas like Misamis Occidental.
The drill is in line with the nationwide effort to promote disaster preparedness, the continuous efforts to educate and train communities on appropriate responses during seismic events, and USTP’s continuous commitment to prioritizing safety and becoming a disaster-ready institution.
