Amid the successive powerful temblors that struck Cebu and Davao Oriental, a labor group has called on private companies nationwide to regularly conduct earthquake drills.
‘We should make disaster preparedness a habit and earthquake readiness a work culture,’ Trade Union Congress of the Philippines (TUCP) president Raymond Mendoza said.
The group asked companies to hold earthquake drills at least twice a month ‘to build muscle memory among workers, especially when disaster strikes.’
Mendoza said frequent drills should be an opportunity for emergency preparedness meetings, including raising awareness on workers’ right to refuse to work in an unsafe environment.
The Department of Labor and Employment backed the TUCP’s call for the conduct of regular earthquake drills.
Labor Secretary Bienvenido Laguesma pointed out that concern and advocacy for occupational safety and health is a shared responsibility among workers, employers and the government.
In San Juan, Mayor Francis Zamora called on local officials and the public to strengthen disaster preparedness efforts amid fears of a major earthquake or the ‘Big One’ in Metro Manila.
Zamora, who also serves as national president of the League of Cities of the Philippines and Metro Manila Council president, said local government units must continue capacity-building programs for disaster response personnel and ensure that emergency equipment and supplies are ready at all times.
‘I urge all our citizens, not only those in Metro Manila but also from all regions, to recognize their crucial role in disaster preparedness. Your vigilance and active participation can help save lives and minimize property damage,’ Zamora said.
He reminded residents to remain calm and alert during earthquakes.
‘Local governments are ready to assist you, but your immediate response in the crucial first hours after a disaster can make a big difference,’ Zamora said. ‘Let us remain alert, informed and united in building a safer and more resilient Philippines.’