Resiliency Task Force steps up campaign on disaster preparedness in remote villages

By Leilanie G. Adriano

Staff reporter

Sarrat, Ilocos Norte—The provincial Resiliency Task Force (RTF) is reaching out to remote villages in the entire province of Ilocos Norte to ensure that every Ilocano, young and old alike knows exactly what to do when a typhoon or earthquake strikes.

Leading the campaign is Ilocos Norte Governor Ma. Imelda “Imee” R. Marcos who has been going around the province since April 14 for the conduct of simulation exercises on earthquake, fire, evacuation and search and rescue operation.

Unlike in previous earthquake drills where participants take for granted the simulation exercises, the RTF composed of representatives from the Philippine National Police, Maritime, Philippine Army, Coast Guard, Provincial Health Office, Environment and Natural Resources Office, Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office, Engineering, and Office of the Barangay Affairs including municipal and village officials have actively taken the lead in demonstrating to their constituents the specific roles and responsibilities of every group or individual during emergency situations.

With emphasis on proper coordination, response and early preparedness when there is a typhoon threat, the conduct of simulation exercises particularly in identified low-lying and most vulnerable Barangays of the province is meant to assess the readiness of every city, municipality and barangay when faced by natural calamity.

Referring to the Local Government Units Disaster Preparedness Manual which presents a checklist for early preparations for mayors, a set of specific guidelines and action plan are already in place as basis for quick response and appropriate action.

In Ilocos Norte, at least 70 barangays, 14 of which belong to the most vulnerable barangays are now being trained for better coordination and quick response operation.

Depending on the rating of the simulation exercise, the task force will provide their feedback and identify what needs to be improved in case of mistakes committed during the activity.

After the conduct of resiliency drill in Pallas, a remote village in Vintar town on April 14, the task force went to the Sarrat municipal hall on Tuesday for the conduct of a similar simulation activity. Next to Sarrat is the Sagpatan National High School in Dingras town on Friday where the task force will again lead the simulation exercise, this time, inviting all village residents near the area to participate in the evacuation exercise.

Other set of schedules will be set next month along with the regular conduct of Capitol Express in every town and city of the province.

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