Representative from different rescue of Metro Manila LGUs gather in front of Quirino Grandstand for the rescue skills olympics spearheaded by MMDA. (MON JOCSON / UNTV News)
MANILA, Philippines — Seventeen local government units in Metro Manila showcased their proficiency in disaster preparedness at the rescue skills olympics hosted by Metro Manila Development Authority.
This is what they call “lifting and rolling of a concrete slab,” a skill that can be executed to save a person being pressed by a heavy object.
MMDA Chairman Francis Tolentino said through this, they will be able to identify additional skills and equipment needed by the LGUs.
We want to identify the gaps and loopholes that need improvements we can upgrade their skills.
UNTV Rescue Manager Jeffrey Santos was also invited as one of the judges in the rescue olympics and to share his knowledge in rescuing lives.
“The big one will call for the preparedness of everybody else not just the rescue units of the LGUs but the preparedness of the public, as an individual and families and as one with the community. After this the MMDA and the station, UNTV is preparing to bring it down to the barangay level. This will be our next project.”
Along with the rescue olympics, the 17 mayors held a meeting to discuss earthquake preparedness
A metro-wide earthquake drill is scheduled to be held in July.
MMDA Chairman Francis Tolentino said, “The details will be out within the next few weeks. At 10:30 a.m. everything will start at the same time. You will have a big part in the information dissemination. At the sound of the siren, everybody will begin simultaneously.”
On Tuesday, MMDA will re-launch the “Oplan Metro Yakal” wherein three areas in Metro Manila will be used as temporary evacuation areas during an earthquake.
Among these are Villamor Airbase in Pasay for south sector; Intramuros in Manila for west sector; VMMC golf course in Quezon City for north sector; and LRT 2 Santolan station grounds for the east sector.
Included in the north sector are Caloocan, Valenzuela, Malabon and Quezon City; Navotas, Manila and Pasay comprise the west sector; Makati, Taguig, Muntinlupa, Parañaque, Las Piñas and Pateros compose the south sector.
MMDA is set to execute the earthquake drill on June 5 for the east sector which includes Marikina, San Juan, Pasig and Mandaluyong. (MON JOCSON / UNTV News)