by: Kimberly Joy Oquias (BSCpE 3)
The Philippines has suffered countless injuries, deaths, and major effects on the regular visits of some fearful natural phenomena. This is due to the fact that the country is sitting at the intersection of major tectonic plates – the Ring of Fire, or typhoon belt – a large Pacific Ocean region where many of Earth’s volcanic eruptions and earthquakes occur. One of the natural disasters Filipinos face is earthquakes. According to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS), the Philippines experiences around 20,000 earthquakes each year. Of these, approximately 100 to 150 are felt by people – which is why the earthquake drill is a chance for students, staff, and employees to practice earthquake safety measures. An earthquake drill is a practice run that simulates the conditions of an actual earthquake, helping participants learn how to stay safe during and after the event. During the drill, individuals practice dropping to their hands and knees, taking cover under sturdy furniture, and holding on until the shaking stops. If the building is unsafe, they rehearse evacuating in an orderly fashion to a designated safe area. The drill also covers post-earthquake protocols, such as checking for injuries, turning off utilities, and navigating safely through the aftermath. These exercises are essential for ensuring that everyone knows what to do when an earthquake strikes, reducing panic, and improving overall safety.
This year, the WLC – College of ICT and Engineering and WLC – College of Hospitality Management participated in the Nationwide Simultaneous Earthquake Drill held at WLC – Main Campus last March 25, 2024, at 8;00 am.
According to Sir Jonel Tagalog (School Emergency and Disaster officer), earthquakes can happen during school times and are beneficial to everyone. This is to get people oriented on what actions must be taken such as where to go and what to do, to lessen chaos during the actual earthquake. Earthquake drills help instill this knowledge through practical experience, ensuring everyone is prepared.
Students were also interviewed on how they viewed earthquake drills. Student A said, “I think earthquake drill is a really important practice since it provides awareness to the students of the emergency exits and safe routes in the school.” Student B also added the importance and how their learnings can be applied to the aspect of their life stating that: “Earthquake drill participation can make the students feel safe as it shows that the school has its safety measures and equipments, enough to make sure that no student will be in harm. They possibly be in since an earthquake is inevitable. With this, it makes us aware of what to do and where to go when this happens.”
As earthquakes continue to happen all over the world, one must need to be ready. These drills aren’t just practice; they’re like rehearsals for keeping people safe when it matters most. It might seem like just another school activity, but it’s a chance for everyone to learn how to protect their own selves and help each other. Remember, today’s readiness is tomorrow’s salvation
