THE Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) is building a workforce prepared to respond when disaster strikes in gthe wake of the magnitude 7.8 offshore earthquake off Maasim, Sarangani.
In a statement, the DAR said the agency intensified its disaster preparedness efforts to ensure its employees can continue serving communities safely and effectively, even in times of crisis.
DAR Regional Office XII, led by Regional Director Marianne S. Lauban-Baunto, gathered its employees for a three-day Disaster Management Training with the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) Regional Office XII to equip them with practical skills to respond safely and effectively during emergencies last week.
The training reflects the direction of Agrarian Reform Secretary Conrado M. Estrella III to put the safety and welfare of employees first, recognizing that a prepared workforce is better equipped to continue serving agrarian reform beneficiaries (ARBs) and the public even in difficult situations.
Assistant Regional Director Rahyll Saga emphasized that the training came at a crucial time following the June 8 earthquake and the series of tremors that continued to affect parts of the region.
‘The recent earthquake reminded us that emergencies can happen at any time. This training gives our employees the knowledge and practical skills they need to protect themselves, assist others, and respond calmly when disaster strikes,’ Saga said.
BFP officials including F/Senior Supt. Randolf Arbutante and lawyer Jeraniel Taporco led discussions on fire safety, forest fire management, and emergency response. Employees also took part in hands-on exercises on using fire extinguishers and safely shutting down liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) tanks during fire incidents, giving them first-hand experience in responding to situations where every second counts.
For many employees, the lessons carried greater meaning after experiencing the recent earthquake and the succeeding tremors in the region. It showed the value of being prepared, not only for their own safety but also for the communities they serve, while helping ensure that government services can continue even during emergencies.
By investing in the safety and readiness of its people, DAR continues to build a workforce capable of responding effectively to crises while remaining committed to delivering public service when it is needed most.