The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC), through the Office of Civil Defense Region 1, initiated the synchronized 2^nd Quarter Nationwide Simultaneous Earthquake Drill (NSED) in Region 1 today, 9 June 2022.

The national campaign was participated by the Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council 1 (RDRRMC 1) member-agencies and Local Government Units (LGUs). DSWD Field Office 1 (DSWD FO 1) employees dutifully participated in the online event through Civil Defense PH Facebook Live. DSWD FO 1 – Disaster Response Management Division personnel were also assigned as evaluators during the drill to assess the actual process of the drill from the participating agencies.

The 2^nd Quarter NSED aims to ensure the establishment of Disaster Control Groups (DCGs) of government entities in planning and organizing the drill, developing evacuation plan, orienting participants on evacuation procedures, and other necessary responsibilities.

The NDRRMC who plans and leads the guiding activities focusing on Disaster Risk Reduction and Management consistently advise that during an earthquake and if you are inside a building, perform the duck, cover, and hold. Drop to the ground and grab your emergency kit, cover your face and head with your arm and get under your table or desk, and hold on until the shaking stops and then calmly evacuate the building. If you are outside a building, move away from the structure and utility wires and if you are in a moving vehicle, stop as quickly as possible and stay in the vehicle.

The NSED is done quarterly to increase the participation of the general public in promoting both individual and family earthquake preparedness towards community resilience, with the integration of public health measures and standards amidst the new normal. #By: Nicole Kasandra A. Lipawen, Information Officer II – Disaster Response Management Division