GAZETTEThe Civil Defense

Vol III Issue 32 0 1 5

PH HOSTS SENIOR DISASTER MANAGERS MEET IN ILOILO

PH PromotesDisaster

Consciousness

UNISDRChief

Visits PH

NDRRMC Tests Readiness for the Big One

Offi cial Publication ofOFFICE OF CIVIL DEFENSE

PUBLIC AFFAIRS OFFICEOffi ce of Civil Defense

Department of National DefenseCamp General Emilio Aguinaldo

Quezon City

Email us at ocdpao@gmail.comCall us at (02) 961 6314

PH Hosts Disaster Offi cials’ Forum

The APEC Framework on Disaster Risk Reduction

UNISDR Head Visits PH

PH Observes Disaster Consciousness Month

One ASEAN, One Response

NDRRMC Leads Nationwide Drill on Earthquake

NDRRMC Tests Response Plan for the Big One

Civil Defense Across The Nation

Central Offi ce Events

Awareness and Preparedness

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

12

18

19

Contents

Editor’s NoteIn an era of rapid change, resilience is the key. The approach to economic growth for it to be inclusive and meaningful must focus on making communities empowered, resilient and sustainable. This is the focus of the Asia-Pacifi c Economic Cooperation’s (APEC) gathering for the 9th Senior Disaster Management Offi cials’ Forum in Iloilo City.

The Forum’s endorsement of the APEC Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) Framework to the Economic Leaders is a step forward in further strengthening DRR in the region, and also support the theme for the Philippines’ hosting of APEC 2015, “Building Inclusive Economies, Building a Better World”.

Investing in DRR to build economic resilience will mitigate businesses and industries against the adverse effects of hazards and disasters. This in turn will translate to continuous economic gain that will benefi t the people. The Offi ce of Civil Defense as the primary agency tasked with administration of DRRM in the country, must worked closely with both local and international stakeholders in ensuring that community resilience is strengthened and that people’s lives and livelihood are protected.

USEC ALEXANDER P PAMA Publisher

DIR ROMEO F FAJARDODIR LIZA FIDELIS F CAÑADA

Advisory Board

ROMINA B MARASIGANEditor-in-Chief

SUSANA G JUANGCOSUSAN E QUIAMBAO

Associate Editors

NOEL H MAPALOMARK CASHEAN E TIMBALKARLA MINORKA M ALDEA

Staff Writers

ADELUISA E KAWAHARASAKIGraphic Artist

FRED A ABUDA JRPhotographer

TASHUANA ALEMANIAREY EZEKIEL BARBASAFRANZES IVY CARASIKAREN ROSE CIMENI

MC ADRIAN NOUVE COBEROJENNIFER CORACERO

DIANE HENIE DEL ROSARIOJEFFERSON BENEDICT ESTALILLA

MONALISA FAJARDOEMPRESS JARAMILLO

GILMHAR LAORACHELLE ANNE MIRANDA

CHERRY MAE NARANJOJONA ORPILLA

KORNESSA PARASHAYDEE REYES

APRIL ROSE ANNE SANCHEZTITUS VELEZ

DAN MICHAEL VILLAMILContributors

The CIVIL DEFENSE

GAZETTE

The Asia-Pacifi c region accounts for over 70 percent of the world’s natural disasters, with scientists warning that the intensity and frequency of disasters in the region will increase in the coming decades, exacerbated by uncontrolled urbanization, poor land-use management, and climate change.

To address this ‘new normal’, the Philippines through the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) and the Offi ce of Civil Defense (OCD) hosted the 9th Senior Disaster Management Offi cials’ Forum (SDMOF) of the 2015 Asia-Pacifi c Economic Forum (APEC) on 22-23 September 2015 at the Iloilo Convention Center in Iloilo City.

In their messages to the delegates, the guests voiced the importance and need to further strengthen

disaster risk reduction efforts in the region. 9th SDMOF theme “Whole-of-Economy Approach: A Paradigm Shift to Adapt to the ‘New Normal’” recognizes the fact that climate change does not recognize boundaries, political or economic affi liations.

NDRRMC Chair and Secretary of National Defense Honorable Voltaire T. Gazmin in his keynote address during the opening program, reiterated the proposal to elevate disaster risk reduction issues to a much higher-level policy dialogue.

“Currently, with the emerging concept of the ‘new normal’, we need a more holistic, proactive, multi-stakeholder and longer-termed intervention, specifi cally to make our economies resilient against disaster,” Secretary Gazmin further stated.

3

“The prevailing conditions all over the world demand that we give this not only special concern and attention, but make it a priority”, said Iloilo Province Governor Arthur Defensor Sr. who welcomed the delegates in the province and in Iloilo City.

Meanwhile, Senator Loren Legarda, UNISDR Disaster Risk Reduction Champion for Asia-Pacifi c region, put emphasis on the need to strengthen inter-economy cooperation in dealing with disasters.

“Disasters know no boundaries or borders. As we make our respective economies resilient and sustainable, the whole region will benefi t if we can support each other through strengthened collaborative

PH HOSTS APEC SENIOR DISASTERMANAGEMENT OFFICIALS’ FORUM IN ILOILO

by Noel Mapalo

Story continues on next page. . .

National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) Executive Director and Civil Defense Administrator Undersecretary Alexander P Pama presides the deliberations on the Asia-Pacifi c Economic Cooperation’s Disaster Risk Reduction (APEC DRR) Framework during the second day of the 9th Senior Disaster Management Offi cials’ Forum in Iloilo City on 23 September 2015. The Framework will be endorsed to the APEC Economic Leaders when they meet in Manila on November.

The APEC Disaster Risk Reduction Framework adopted by the APEC Senior Disaster Management Offi cials, serves as one of the important deliverables of the Philippines for its hosting of the APEC. The aim of the Framework is to achieve “Adaptive and disaster-resilient Asia-Pacifi c economies towards inclusive and sustainable development” in the face of the “new normal” - the increasing frequency, magnitude and scope of disasters, and the resultant disruption on the increasingly integrated and interlinked production and supply chains.

The APEC DRR Framework consists of four interoperable and mutually reinforcing pillars, namely: Prevention and Mitigation, Preparedness, Response, and Rehabilitation and Build Back Better. These pillars correspond to the four elements vital for ensuring achievement of the overall aim.

The APEC DRR Framework shall work effectively within an enabling environment anchored on Community Participation, Disaster Risk Governance, Disaster Risk Financing, Innovations on Science and Technology, Critical Infrastructure Resiliency, Ecological Integrity, and Inclusiveness of Women and Vulnerable Sectors.

To operationalize the APEC DRR Framework, an Action Plan shall be developed which will serve as the implementation, monitoring and evaluation tool to contribute to the attainment of the common disaster resiliency goals in APEC.4

The APEC Disaster Risk Reduction

Frameworkby Joe Mar Perez

PH Hosts APEC . . . research, technology transfer, capacity building and knowledge sharing”, Legarda said in her message read by Climate Change Commissioner Emmanuel De Guzman.

The forum served as venue for the discussion of various DRRM topics and the sharing of best practices of the various member-economies. Specialist topics were presented by subject matter experts on DRRM hailing from international DRR agencies.

The 9th SDMOF also deliberated on the adoption of Disaster Risk Reduction Framework: APEC Strategy to Building Adaptive and Disaster-Resilient Economies. The Framework will be endorsed to the APEC Economic Leaders who will meet in Manila on November.

During the concluding session, 9th SDMOF Chair and Civil Defense

Administrator Undersecretary Alexander P. Pama, expressed his gratitude to all the delegates and guests for attending and actively participating in the sessions and dialogues. He cited the importance of adopting the framework in building adaptive and resilient economies.

“Adopting this framework is our move to help translate into concrete action what our Leaders and Ministers have agreed on and repeatedly articulated over the years”, said Undersecretary Pama. Indeed, the 9th SDMOF marked another great milestone in putting forward regional cooperation towards building disaster resilience across Asia Pacifi c.

Building sustainable and resilient communities is one of the priority topics of the Philippines’ hosting of APEC, under the theme Building Inclusive Economies, Building a Better World.

UNISDR HEAD VISITS THE PHILIPPINESby Mina Marasigan

The Special Representative of the Secretary General on Disaster Risk Reduction and Head of the UN International Strategy for Disaster Reduction (UNISDR), Ms Margareta Wahlstrom visited the Philippines on 13-15 September 2015.

Ms Walhstrom visited and met with the local chief executives of the Municipalities of Tanauan, Palo and Javier, including Tacloban City in the Province of Leyte to view the reconstruction projects in the Haiyan stricken communities on 14 September 2015.

Ms Wahlstrom also attended the dialogue on Implementing the Sendai Framework for Resilient Development, which aims to increase the commitment of policy and decision makers to

the implementation of the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction (SFDRR). The dialogue was participated in by heads and representatives of National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) member agencies, as well as from the legislature, the local government, academe and the private sector.

“The Philippines is committed to undertake concrete steps to realize the Priorities for Action in the Sendai Framework. Its indicator system would allow us to gauge our actual progress and see how well we are doing and the areas we can further improve our DRRM undertakings

and programs”, says NDRRMC Executive Director and Offi ce of Civil Defense (OCD) Administrator Undersecretary Alexander P Pama.

The NDRRMC and the OCD recently piloted discussions on the implementation of SFDRR, drawing on the experiences and best practices learned in implementing the Hyogo Framework for Action (HFA).

The SFDRR, the successor framework to HFA, was adopted by 187 Member States, including the Philippines at the 3rd World Conference on DRR held in March 2015.

UNISDR Chief Margareta Wahlstrom with National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council Vice Chair for Response and Social Welfare and Development Secretary Corazon Juliano-Soliman visits the Transitional Shelter in Barangay Cabalawan, Tacloban City on 14 September 2014.

5

6

“Pamilya at Pamayanang Handa, Katuwang sa Pag-unlad ng Bansa” is this year’s theme for the observance of National Disaster Consciousness Month (NDCM) every July. Various DRRM stakeholders, government agencies and local units, civil society organizations, private sectors, media and academe held activities in celebration of the NDCM.

National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) Chair and National Defense Secretary Voltaire T Gazmin together with NDRRMC Executive Director and Civil Defense Administrator Usec Alexander P Pama led the kick-off ceremony of this year’s NDCM. Sec. Gazmin delivered his message before the civilian and military offi cials during the Flag Raising Ceremony at the Armed Forces of the Philippines General Headquarters Canopy, Camp General Emilio Aguinaldo, Quezon City on 29 June 2015.

On 10 August 1999, then President Joseph Ejercito Estrada signed Presidential Executive Order No. 137, designating the month of July as National Disaster Consciousness Month. This aims to increase the

awareness of every Filipino on the threats of disasters for a better appreciation of the government’s disaster preparedness programs.

Meanwhile, NDRRMC member agencies facilitated several activities in observance of the NDCM. One of these is the Department of Education

Personnel from government agencies join the kick-off ceremony in Cagayan Sports Center in Tuguegarao City.

Regional DRRMC offi cials show off the rescue equipment to the media during NDCM Exhibit and Media Forum held in Baguio City.

A winner of Regional Inter-High School Poster Making Contest receives her prize in Cagayan de Oro City.

PH OBSERVES NATIONAL DISASTERCONSCIOUSNESS MONTH

by Karla Minorka Aldea

which issued a memorandum enjoining all offi ces and schools to conduct activities related to disaster risk reduction.

On the other hand, OCD Regional Offi ces in cooperation with the Regional DRRM Councils conducted various capacity building trainings

National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC)Chair and Secretary of National Defense Voltaire T. Gazmin delivers his keynote address during the Ceremonial Kick-off for the Observance of National Disaster Consciuosness Month (NDCM) on 29 June 2015. Executive Order No. 137 designates the month of July as NDCM to increase the public’s awareness on the threats of hazards and disasters.

and simulation exercises. OCD I led the conduct of Maging Handa Video Making Contest. Among the 32 entries, fi ve winners were awarded. Science of Identity Foundation, La Union garnered the fi rst prize.

OCD III facilitated a fl ood drill in Morong, Bataan on 14-17 July 2015 and tsunami drill in Iba, Zambales on 28-31 July 2015. OCD CAR, in line with the commemoration of the 1990 earthquake, held a Rescue MARCH (Mass Assembly for Rescue and Care for Humanity) on 18 July 2015. OCD IX led the conduct of Rapid Damage Assessment and Needs Analysis Training and Water Search and Rescue Training. OCD CARAGA facilitated the Regional Awarding of the 2015 Gawad Kalasag Search for Excellence in DRRM and Humanitarian Assistance during the NDCM culminating activity on 30 July 2015.

Other DRRM stakeholders also took part in the observance of NDCM such as the Polytechnic University of the Philippines, Sta. Mesa. Through its organized University DRRM Council, the theme of the university’s month-long NDCM celebration, “PUPian Handa’t Nagkakaisa: Tutugon sa anumang Sakuna” was formulated. (With reports from OCD Regional Offi ces)

Members of the Regional Selection Committee award the Gawad Kalasag to winners during NDCM Culmination activity in Caraga.

PH Observes . . .

7

The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council – Offi ce of Civil Defense (NDRRMC-OCD) together with the ASEAN Coordinating Centre for Humanitarian Assistance on disaster management (AHA Centre) commence the “One ASEAN, One Response” Roadshow to be held on 11 – 13 August 2015 at the Manila Hotel, Philippines. Gracing the event are AHA Centre’s Executive Director Said Faisal and NDRRMC Executive Director and Civil Defense Administrator Undersecretary Alexander P Pama.

Participating on the fi rst day are representatives from the AHA Centre, NDRRMC – member agencies and the media. The objectives of this event is to familiarize the ASEAN Regional Mechanism on Disaster Management as well as to socialize the “One ASEAN, One Response” vision, where all the ASEAN – member States unite as one, to respond to disasters within, or outside the region.

“One ASEAN, One Response is the vision where ASEAN is moving forward. It envisions unity and solidarity amongst ten

One ASEAN, One Response

Member States. Therefore, we would like to extend our deepest appreciation for the continuous support of all the ASEAN Member States, which enable us further on achieving One ASEAN, One Response,” said Mr Faisal in his opening remarks.

Usec Pama says, “We believe that this roadshow will bring signifi cant impact towards the understanding of ASEAN’s framework on disaster management and emergency response. Moreover, we can also understand how the AHA Centre fi ts in the regional mechanism of disaster management and how the NDRRMC can fully utilize its support on information sharing, emergency response and also, capacity-building programme for our offi cials.”

The establishment of the ASEAN Agreement on Disaster Management and Emergency Response (AADMER) in 2005 has become a strong commitment from the ten ASEAN Member States to become a stronger region in responding to disaster. As the operational organization of the AADMER, the AHA Centre is fully committed to realize the “One ASEAN, One Response” vision.

by Mina Marasigan

8

NDRRMC LEADS NATIONWIDE DRILL FOR EARTHQUAKE PREPAREDNESS

by Mark Cashean Timbal

Close to a million Filipinos across the country participated in the 3rd Quarter Nationwide Simultaneous Earthquake Drill conducted by the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) on 23 July 2015, 9:00 AM. Bonifacio Global City (BGC) in Taguig City served as the main ceremonial pilot venue of the drill. Spearheaded by the Offi ce of Civil Defense (OCD) through its Regional Offi ce for the National Capital Region (NCR) and in partnership with other agencies, the drill is meant to test the Local Government Contingency plans as well as to

highlight government capability in responding to emergency situations specifi cally in the management of the ICS, the evacuation of the affected populace, with focus on the women, children, elderly and persons with disabilities, the establishment and management of evacuation areas and the provisioning of medical assistance and relief.

The drill in the ceremonial venue was overseen by NDRRMC Chairperson and National Defense Secretary Voltaire T. Gazmin. Also in attendance are NDRRMC Executive Director and Civil Defense Administrator, Usec Alexander P. Pama, Dir. Renato U.

Solidum Jr. of the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA) Chairman, Atty. Francis Tolentino and MMDA General Manager Usec Corazon Jimenez as well as offi cials of the Taguig City Government headed by Mayor Laarni Cayetano and the BGC Management Board. Offi cials from Department of Interior and Local Government, Department of Health and Department of Social Welfare and Development also graced the event.

Sec Gazmin, in his message, emphasized the importance of continued vigilance and preparation to be able to face the challenge of any hazard. He also lauded the synergy between the various key players in the fi eld of disaster risk reduction and management.

Offi ces, schools and commercial establishments across the nation also participated in their local earthquake drills spearheaded by the Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Councils and local government units.

Students, teachers and school staff gather at their designated evacuation area during the Earthquake Drill held in Baguio City.

Hospital personnel evacuate patients during the Earthquake Drill held at the Veteran’s Regional Hospital in Nueva Vizcaya.

9

NDRRMC TESTS EARTHQUAKE RESPONSE PLAN FOR THE BIG ONE IN METRO

by Noel MapaloNational Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) Chair and Secretary of National Defense Voltaire T Gazmin, and NDRRMC Executive Director and Civil Defense Administrator Undersecretary Alexander P Pama led the conduct of the earthquake simulation dubbed Metro Shake Drill in Camp General Emilio Aguinaldo on 30 July 2015. Joining Secretary Gazmin are the Interior and Local Government Secretary Mar Roxas, Social Welfare and Development Secretary Corazon Juliano-Soliman, Health Secretary Janette Garin, and Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Secretary Teresita Deles.

The Metro Shake Drill, which was primarily organized by Metropolitan Manila Development Authority, used a drill scenario derived from the results of the Metro Manila Earthquake Impact Reduction Study (MMEIRS) conducted in 2004 and the GMMA READY Project in 2014, which details a magnitude 7.2 earthquake from the Valley Fault System that may rock the metropolis and the nearby provinces of Bulacan, Rizal, Cavite and Laguna.

At the national level, the drill aims to test the interoperability of the National Earthquake Response Plan and MMDA’s Oplan Yakal. The Armed Forces of the Philippines Grandstand served as National Command and Control Center, which will operate in case the NDRRM Operations Center building is damaged by the quake.

Emergency Operations Centers were also organized in the four

primary staging areas, which will attend to the needs in their assigned areas or quadrant. Oplan Yakal subdivides Metro Manila into quadrants to ease coordination and organize response.

These venues showcased the establishment of Incident Command System (ICS) facilities such as an Incident Command Post with Communications Center, staging areas, helispots and fi eld hospitals.

OCD personnel set up a fi eld Operations Center which will function in case the NDRRM Operations Center Building is damaged.

An Air Force chopper takes off to conduct mock Rapid Damage Assessment Needs Analysis during the Metro Shake Drill.

Emergency responders maneuver their rescue boats in Marikina River during the drill for a 7.2 magnitude earthquake hitting Metro Manila.

National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC)Chair and Secretary of National Defense Voltaire T. Gazmin presides over a mock emergency meeting during the simulation exercises for a 7.2 magnitude earthquake hitting Metro Manila on 30 July 2015 at the Armed Forces of the Philippines Grandstand in Camp General Emilio Aguinaldo.

Delegates and guests from Asia-Pacifi c economies pose with National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council Chair and Secretary of National Defense Voltaire T Gazmin during the conduct of Asia-Pacifi c Economic Cooperation (APEC) 9th Senior Disaster Management Offi cials Forum in Iloilo City on 22-23 September 2015.

OCD I Conducts Tsunami Drill

Local Responders rescue a drowned fi sherman as part of the Tsunami drill simulation exercise in Ilocos Sur on 23 July 2015. Participants who joined the Regional DRRM Council of Region 1 were the residents, local responders and uniformed personnel from the local community. (Mike Aldrin T Sabado)

OCD II Holds Jingle Making Competition and Quiz Bee

Students showcase their talents during the jingle making competition and quiz bee held in celebration of the National Disaster Consciousness Month at the Department of Education (DepEd) Region 2, Tuguegarao City on 31 July 2015. Participants were the secondary and elementary students from the nine school divisions in Region 2. OCD II facilitated the event in partnership with DepEd and other Regional DRRM Council member agencies. (Dan Michael Villamil)

OCD II Spearheads DRRM Caravan

Students perform the “duck cover and hold” technique in participation to the DRRM Caravan conducted in Cagayan State University on 30 July 2015. Among the other discussions facilitated in the event were the DRRM System, Earthquake Preparedness, Fire Safety, Crime Prevention, Hydro-meteorological hazards and organization of the School Disaster Management Committee. (Dan Michael Villamil)

OCD III Facilitates Flood Drill

Members of the Philippine Army assist the children in Brgy. Canaynayan, Sta. Cruz, Zambales in evacuating during the Flood Drill conducted on 7-11 September 2015. Around 400 residents participated in the simulation exercises which aims to provide fl ood-prone and vulnerable communities fl ood preparedness guide and to encourage the communities to establish a participative response system in their barangay. (Haydee Reyes)

12

CIVIL DEFENSE ACROSS THE NATION

OCD CALABARZON Holds Basic ICS Training

OCD CALABARZON Regional Director Vicente F Tomazar awards certifi cate of completion to Mayor Ping Reyes, one of the participants of the Basic Incident Command System Training held at Queen Margarette Hotel, Downtown, Lucena City on 2-4 September 2015. (Jennifer Coracero)

OCD MIMAROPA Conducts Disaster Forum for High School Students

Students engage in a discussion during the Disaster Forum conducted for high school students in Calapan City, Oriental Mindoro on 1 July 2015. Resource speakers were representatives from PAGASA and PHIVOLCS. They presented about the weather and geological hazards and discussed disaster preparedness measures. (Jona Orpilla)

OCD V Distributes DRR Tools

OCD V hands over DRR tools to Barangays in Sorsogon City identifi ed within the 4 kilometer to 6 kilometer permanent danger zone of Mt. Bulusan on 1 July 2015. Eighteen Barangays were provided with items for disaster operations such as refl ectorized vest, hard hat helmet, safety goggles, transfer radio and rechargeable fl ashlight. (Rachelle Anne L Miranda)

13

OCD MIMAROPA Conducts Tsunami Drill

Residents in the coastal Barangays of Mogpog, Marinduque exhibit the “duck, cover and hold” technique during the Tsunami Drill held on 24 July 2015. The simulation exercise aims to capacitate the residents of Mogpog in case of disasters such as a tsunami. The activity was part of OCD MIMAROPA’s observance of the National Disaster Consciousness Month every July. (Jona Orpilla)

CIVIL DEFENSE ACROSS THE NATION

OCD VI Launches Pacifi c Partnership Activity

OCD VI in collaboration with the US Army and US Navy facilitates the opening ceremony of the Pacifi c Partnership Activities during the Flag Ceremony of the Province of Capiz at the Provincial Capitol on 20 July 2015. Capiz Governor, Victor Tanco together with OCD VI Regional Director Rosario T Cabrera graced the event in line with the celebration of the National Disaster Consciousness Month. (Cherry Mae D Naranjo)

OCD VII Holds Rescue Olympics

Participants in the Rescue Olympics execute victim handling and use of equipment in a water search and rescue scenario in South Road Properties, Cebu City on 27-28 July 2015. The two day competition facilitated by OCD VII aims to assess the strengths and capabilities of the responders in addressing emergency situations. (Tashuana Alemania)

OCD VI Leads APEC STG on Emergency Preparedness

OCD VI Regional Director Rosario T Cabrera acts as Group Commander of the Site Sub Task Group on Emergency Preparedness and Response (SSTGEPR) for the APEC meetings held in Iloilo City on 21-24 September 2015. Members of the Regional Incident Management Team (RIMT) were convened at Sarabia Manor Hotel, Iloilo City as early as 15 September 2015. The SSTGEPR aims for Zero Casualty with the help of the Regional DRRM Council members. (Cherry Mae D Naranjo)

14

OCD V Convenes DRRM Stakeholders on a Pledge for Resilience

OCD V and RDRRMC Bicol together with DRRM stakeholders undertake a signifi cant signing of pledge of commitment as DRRM partners for resilience at the PRO5 Grandstand, Camp General Simeon Ola, Legazpi City on 01 July 2015. Two hundred eighty participants from the 17 regional government agencies and youth organizations attended the kickoff ceremony. (Rachelle Anne L Miranda)

CIVIL DEFENSE ACROSS THE NATION

OCD VII Conducts Integrated Planning Course on ICS

Participants from the Philippine Coast Guard discuss during the Integrated Planning Course on Incident Command System (ICS) at Quest Hotel, Cebu City on 14-18 September 2015. OCD VII led the training which aims to enhance the knowledge of the Local Responders on ICS as a tool in disaster management. (Tashuana Alemania)

OCD VIII Holds Regional Rescue Jamboree

Emergency Responders of Region VIII demonstrate the mountain Search and Rescue during the Regional Rescue Jamboree at Camp Danao, Maasin City, Southern Leyte on 20-25 July 2015. OCD VIII facilitated the activity in partnership with the Provincial Government of Southern Leyte and City Government of Maasin. The activity aims to capacitate the Disaster Response Teams of Region 8 in disaster and emergency response operations.

OCD X Conducts PDNA Training

One of the participants presents output during the fi ve-day Post Disaster Needs Assessment (PDNA) Training for the municipalities in Misamis Oriental and Bukidnon held at Haus Malibu, Malaybalay City on 7-11 September 2015. Forty-one participants from both provinces attended the training which aims to provide PDNA workshop as a tool for disaster rehabilitation and recovery. (Titus Velez)

OCD XI Holds Integrated Planning Course on ICS

OCD XI Regional Director Liza R Mazo addresses questions of participants during the open forum in the Integrated Planning Course on Incident Command System (ICS) held at Mergrande Ocean Resort, Davao City on 28 September to 2 October 2015. Integrated Planning Course is one of the four training courses in ICS which aims to establish the Incident Management Team in Davao Region. (Adrian Nouve Cobero)

15

CIVIL DEFENSE ACROSS THE NATION

OCD XI Holds RDANA Training of Trainers

Participants from the Provincial and City DRRM Councils of Region XI pose during the three-day Rapid Damage Assessment and Needs Analysis (RDANA) Training of Trainers at the Mergrande Ocean Resort, Davao City on 2-4 September 2015. The training aims to promote the RDANA concept, including its operational and assessment methodologies. (Adrian Nouve Cobero)

OCD CARAGA Facilitates DRRM Plan Formulation Workshops

DRRM Offi cers discuss during a workshop on the formulation of a DRRM Plan for the Municipality of Carmen, Surigao del Sur on 11-13 August 2015. Thirty participants from the various Regional DRRM Council member agencies attended the workshop. The formulated DRRM Plan contains strategic interventions which aim to improve DRRM at the local level. (April Ray Sanchez)

OCD ARMM Holds WASAR Training

DRRM Partners and fi rst responders in ARMM demonstrate their skills in Water Search and Rescue as part of the training conducted at the Coast Guard Station, Jolo Sulu on 7-11 September 2015. OCD ARMM spearheaded the activity in cooperation with the Local Government Units of Maimbung, Pangutaran and Jolo, Sulu. (Gilmhar A Lao)

OCD CARAGA Holds Rescue Group Exercise

Local responders in Caraga assist a victim in one of the scenarios during the Rescue Group Exercise conducted in Butuan City on 1-5 July 2015. OCD CARAGA spearheaded the event in line with the observance of the National Disaster Consciousness Month every July. The activity aims to capacitate the Local Responders of the Region in search and rescue skills and competencies. (April Ray Sanchez)

16

CIVIL DEFENSE ACROSS THE NATION

OCD ARMM Distributes Hazard Signages

OCD ARMM Regional Director Myrna J Angot presents hazard signage for fl ood and tsunami disasters to the Municipality of Mamasapano on 13 August 2015. The Local Government Units of Sultan sa Barongis, Rajah Buayan, Datu Piang, Talitay and Kabuntalain in Maguindanao also received hazard signage. These signages shall be placed on roadside for information and warnign to the public (Gilmhar A Lao)

OCD NCR Leads Coastal Cleanup Drive

OCD NCR in partnership with various government agencies, civic organizations, volunteer individuals join forces for a Coastal Cleanup Drive in Las Piñas-Parañaque Critical Habitat and Eco-tourism Area, Parañaque City on 25 July 2015. The cleaning would help mitigate pollution in the area which affects public health, wildlife and economies. It also advocates the importance of having clear coastal areas for DRR. (Monalisa Fajardo & JB Estalilla)

OCD CAR and PAF Join Forces for K9 SAR Training

Handlers teach K9 dogs the elements of Search, Rescue and Retrieval (SRR) Operations at the grounds of the Philippine Air Force- Tactical Operations Group 1 (PAF-TOG1), Loakan Airport, Baguio City during the weekends of September. PAF –TOG1 spearheaded the training in collaboration with OCD CAR. It aims to train K9 dogs for SRR operations in CAR. This shall reinforce the SRR cluster, one of the cluster stipulated in the Regional Disaster Response Plan. (Franzes Ivy Carasi)

OCD CAR Distributes Vegetable Seeds Assistance

OCD CAR Regional Director Andrew Alex Uy hands out vegetable seed to Benguet Governor Nestor Fongwan at OCD CAR, Baguio City on 17 August 2015. The seed assistance will benefi t 2,967 farmers in Benguet Province who were affected by Typhoon Luis and Typhoon Mario. Thousands of benefi ciary farmers from the other provinces of CAR were also granted with the assistance in cooperation with Department of Agriculture-Cordillera. (Franzes Ivy Carasi)

17

CIVIL DEFENSE ACROSS THE NATION

18

CENTRAL OFFICE EVENTS

Participants from Civil Society Organziations pose with OCD Administrator Usec Alexander P Pama during the workshop on DRR-CCA on 2 July 2015.

Usec Alexander P Pama explains the deployment of assets during the Tabletop Exercise on Earthquake and Tsunami Preparedness on 28 July 2015.

National Defense College of the Philippines students visit the NDRRM Operations Center for orientation on Philippine DRRM System on 15 July 2015.

Participants and speakers pose for a photo during the the Mainstreaming DRR-CCA into Development Policies and Planning Workshop on 19 August 2015.

NDRRMC Chair and DND Secretary Voltaire T Gazmin presides the meeting on preparations and actions taken on Typhoon Ineng on 23 August 2015.

OCDEXO Liza Fidelis Cañada addresses the audience during the anniversary celebration of UNTV in SMX Convention Center on 25 August 2015.

Photos by Fred Abuda JrCaptions by Noel Mapalo

For more information and tips on preparing for hazards and

disasters, download and watch theProject DINA Videos

(Disaster Information for Nationwide Awareness) from

www.ocd.gov.ph

For more information,email us at ocdpao@gmail.com

or call us at (02) 961 6314

ALWAYS ALERT

When an earthquake strikes while you’re at home, in a school classroom or inside an offi ce, do the DUCK, COVER and HOLD!

DUCK under a sturdy desk, table or furniture.

If there are no desks or tables, drop on the fl oor and COVER your head and neck with your arms. Avoid staying close to windows, hanging objects, mirrors or tall furniture.

HOLD on to the table or furniture. Hold the position until the ground shaking stops and it is safe to move and move to the exit.

Awareness and Preparedness on E A R T H Q U A K E S

According to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS), the country experiences about 20 earthquakes daily. Most of these earthquakes however, are unfelt and can only be detected by an instrument called a seismograph. Always remember these basic things to do before, during and after a strong earthquake.

BEFORE

The key to effective disaster prevention is planning:• Know the earthquake hazards in

your area.• Follow structural design and

engineering practices when constructing a house or building.

• Evaluate the structural soundness of the buildings and houses; strengthen or retrofi t if necessary.

Prepare your house and workplace: • Strap or bolt heavy furnitures/

cabinets to the walls.• Check the stability of hanging

objects like ceiling fans and chandeliers.

• Breakable items, harmful chemicals and fl ammable materials should be stored in the lowermost secured shelves.

• Always turn off gas tanks when not in use.

Familiarize yourself with the exit routes and where fi re extinguishers and fi rst aid kits are located. Learn how to use them beforehand.

Prepare an emergency bag with fi rst aid kit, ready-to-eat food, water, clothing, blanket, battery-operated radio, fl ashlights and extra batteries.

Conduct and participate in regular earthquake drills.

DURING

Stay calm. When you are inside a structurally sound building, stay there and do the DUCK, COVER and HOLD.• If possible quickly open the door

for exit.• Stay away from glass windows,

shelves, cabinets and other heavy objects.

• Beware of falling objects. Be alert keep your eyes open.

Provide assistance to persons with disabilities, children, pregnant and elderly during evacuation.• If you are OUTSIDE, move to an

open area!• Stay away from trees,

powerlines, posts, concrete structures and steep slopes.

• If you are near the shore and felt a strong earthquake, move quickly to higher grounds. TSUNAMIS (giant sea waves) may follow.

If you are in a moving vehicle, stop and get out. Do not attempt to cross bridges or fl yovers which may have been damaged.

AFTER

Be prepared for aftershocks. Once the shaking stops, take the fastest and safest way out of the building. DON’T use elevators or re enter damaged buildings.

CHECK yourself and others for injuries. Check water and electrical lines for damages. Check for spills of chemical, toxic and fl ammable materials.

If you need to evacuate, leave a message stating where you are going. Bring your emergency bag.

Camp General Emilio Aguinaldo Quezon City, Philippines

(+6302) 9115061 - 65

www.ocd.gov.ph

The Offi ce of Civil Defense is a Center for Excellence in

Disaster Risk Reduction and Management.

The Offi ce of Civil Defenseprovides leadership in administering the country’s

comprehensive national civil defense anddisaster risk reduction and management program.