Philippines Conducts Nationwide Earthquake Drill: A Test of Preparedness for the ‘Big One’

The Philippines conducted its first nationwide earthquake drill of 2025 on March 13 in Laguna, with over 1,300 local units participating. OCD chief Ariel Nepomuceno highlighted the exercise as a critical gauge of disaster preparedness for a significant earthquake. The need for improved plans and community involvement was emphasized by officials, particularly given the nation’s high ranking in the World Risk Index.

On March 13, 2025, the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) initiated the Philippines’ first nationwide earthquake drill for the year, held in Santa Rosa, Laguna. Over 1,300 local government units, along with participants from the private sector, engaged in various simulations including damage assessment, hazardous materials response, search and rescue efforts, jailbreak scenarios, and the safe evacuation of school children with learning difficulties.

During a press conference at the Santa Rosa City Hall Stadium, OCD chief Undersecretary Ariel Nepomuceno emphasized that this drill serves as a litmus test for the national and local governments to evaluate their readiness for a potential 7.2 magnitude earthquake, often referred to as the ‘Big One’. He remarked, “What we are training for now is the capability of our national government and local governments to simultaneously act in response to a major earthquake.”

Nepomuceno acknowledged the existing gaps in the country’s disaster preparedness, asserting, “We have a lot of catching up to do.” He pointed out that the Philippines ranks high in the World Risk Index, which highlights the challenges ahead. He further stated, “We cannot get tired, we cannot surrender. It is our duty to save ourselves, our loved ones, and also our community members if we have the chance when a major disaster strikes.”

Furthermore, a survey by the Harvard Humanitarian Initiative in 2024 identified low levels of disaster preparedness in the National Capital Region, which is situated in the earthquake-prone Pacific Ring of Fire. Nepomuceno stressed the importance of unified disaster management plans among neighboring cities, suggesting a standard approach.

Social Welfare Undersecretary Diane Cajipe underscored that disaster preparedness is a shared responsibility between the government and citizens. She stated, “Knowledge is something that each one of us should have because that would save us. After us, our loved ones, those who are with them. Then, after that, the people we teach. But it always has to begin with us.” Cajipe expressed concerns about the practical challenges of executing disaster plans, saying, “No matter how good the plans on paper, if only a few of us know it, how can it be efficient really?”

To mitigate this, Cajipe proposed enhancing community outreach and using social media as an effective tool for information dissemination on disaster preparedness. While earthquakes cannot be predicted, ongoing scientific research contributes to improved understanding and prepares governments to develop better strategies for community safety.

In conclusion, the Philippines’ first nationwide earthquake drill of 2025 served as a crucial assessment of the disaster preparedness of both national and local governments. Officials, including Undersecretary Ariel Nepomuceno and Undersecretary Diane Cajipe, acknowledged the existing challenges and emphasized the importance of community engagement and knowledge dissemination. The ongoing efforts to improve preparedness reflect the commitment to safeguarding lives and enhancing resilience against natural disasters.

Original Source: www.rappler.com