Ilocos Norte LGUs intensify disaster awareness

By Leilanie G. Adriano

Staff Reporter

LAOAG CITY—As a series of earthquakes that hit various parts of the country, some local government units and other concerned national government line agencies in the province has intensified their disaster awareness campaign using social media as the latest mode of communication.

In San Nicolas town for example, local officials led by their Mayor Alfredo P. Valdez alerted all residents to stay alert and be prepared in the event of any disaster or earthquake.

Before an earthquake happens, authorities reminded the public to prepare a “lifeline kit”. This includes a whistle, flashlight and identification card at all times. It is also important to know the evacuation area and to determine is your area is prone to earthquake.

During an earthquake, the drop, cover and hold technique should always be practiced until the shaking stops and then be calm to evacuate and help other people in need.

“Please take our drills seriously. This must serve as a lesson to all of us. We must bear in mind that we are preparing to something unknown, and the reward for our ignorance is our own lives,” said George Emman D. Manuel, project development officer II of the Schools Division of Ilocos Norte as he urged all schools in the province to become resilient and for each teacher or learner to be aware of what to do in times of emergency situations.

For the month of May, Mr. Manuel who is manning the newly-established Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office at the division office reported a pre-disaster risk assessment will be conducted to document hazards and implement safety measures.

Meanwhile, Regional Director Melchito Castro of the Office of the Civil Defense based in San Fernando City, La Union issued a public statement to refrain from spreading fake news.

“We can’t predict the occurrence of earthquakes; thus, I urge the public not to spread disinformation which causes undue alarm and panic to more people,’ said Mr. Castro.

The OCD apparently made the statement following the spread of hoax text messages that a magnitude 8.0 earthquake is coming.

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