Abuyog MDRRMO Empowers ACC Disaster Response Team with 3-day Comprehensive Training
by Reo Cesar
In a proactive move towards enhancing safety measures, the Abuyog Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office (MDRRMO) has recently conducted a three-day intensive training for the disaster response team of Abuyog Community College on December 7-9, 2023 at AFCCO Beach Resort Function Hall.
The ACC disaster response team was led by ACC-SDRRMO coordinator, Mr. Mark Castañas and comprised of dedicated faculty and staff as well as selected students who underwent rigorous sessions covering emergency protocols, first aid, and crisis management.
The training was facilitated by Abuyog -MDRRMO head, Mr. Erik Barcelo together with his team who were experts in disaster preparedness in the locality.The three-day event was aimed at equipping the response team with the skills necessary to efficiently handle various emergencies, ranging from natural disasters to unforeseen incidents.
The initiative underscores the school’s commitment to ensuring the well-being and safety of students and staff.College President, Dr. Clemelle L. Montallana during his welcome speech, expressed the importance of preparedness. He stated that top priority of the institution is to create a secure learning environment.
Highlighted discussion on the first day of the training was the informative talks on basic concepts on disaster risk management, radio telecommunication and first aid response.
Moreover, emphasized on the second day of the training was the hands-on activities on bandaging techniques and basic life support.Completing the three-day response team training was the basic carry and drag, light search and rescue activity and the simulation exercise bringing to life the scenes of a real disaster response operations.
In the earthquake rescue response simulation exercise, the participants were divided in two groups who portrayed the role of rescue responders and selected faculty played the role of the victims.
The two teams were put to test as they demonstrate appropriately the importance of preparation, co-operation and wise decision making in ensuring the success of any rescue operations.
Selected participants have welcomed the proactive approach, applauding the local rescue responders and school’s dedication to ensuring the highest standards of safety in the community.
Furthermore, Mr. Erik Barcelo, Abuyog MDRRMO head, mentioned in his closing message that it needs selfless service and strong collaboration between their agency and the academe in fulfilling the mission for safety and security as well as building a disaster resilient community.
Capping of the event, participants were glad to receive their certificate of completion and to the disaster response team of Abuyog Community College congratulations for the successful completion of the School Disaster Response Team Training.
With this initiative, ACC disaster response team are now well-prepared and confident, stands ready to implement their training in the event of any unforeseen challenges, fostering a sense of security within the school community.