Not even COVID-19 can stop the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council from holding a nationwide simultaneous earthquake drill — even if it has to be done online.
The procedure, which aims to "continuously instill to the public earthquake preparedness" even during the pandemic" will be live streamed on Sept. 10 at 2 p.m., according to the Office of Civil Defense.
Organizers urged viewers of the third quarter NSED to do the duck, cover, and hold in their houses.
"Despite our current situation, we must bear in mind the importance of keeping ourselves safe. I encourage the public to continuously engage in activities that promote earthquake safety. In our constant effort to promote disaster resilience, everyone’s involvement is necessary," Civil Defense Administrator Ricardo Jalad said.
Preliminary activities include an online quiz bee and webinar on earthquake preparedness and response in the new normal scheduled for Sept. 7 and 8, respectively. The civil defense office will also discuss its updated national and regional public service continuity plans.
Last month, a 6.6-magnitude earthquake shook southeast of Masbate Island in the Bicol region, leaving residents homeless, infrastructure damaged, and at least one killed.
