LGU officials assure more equipment, training on disasters

CEBU, Philippines – Local officials in Mandaue and Lapu-Lapu Cities and the town of Consolacion assured more equipment and continuous training of personnel to prepare them for disasters and calamities.

With the experience last year of 7.2-magnitude earthquake that hit Cebu and super typhoon Yolanda, officials believe there is a need to address the problem of equipment scarcity and continuous trainings down to barangay level.

In Mandaue City, Mayor Jonas Cortes admitted the need to prepare the people for any disaster and calamity to prevent the loss of lives.

With the operation of the Bantay Mandaue Command Center 24 hours a day, Mayor Cortes hopes they can immediately respond to any disaster in the city.

Cortes said the city government will purchase all the equipment needs of the Bantay Mandaue Command Center.

Since last year, continuous trainings were have been made in select barangays that so far resulted to 100 fully trained barangay disaster brigade volunteers for disaster response.

A total of 2,700 individuals with full working knowledge on what to do in disaster situations have been trained.

Mayor Cortes also announced that the city government acquired IP Phone and VHF-UHF radio where they can assure continued function during brownout.

In Lapu-Lapu City, Mayor Paz Radaza also assured that the city government always prepares during disaster and calamities.

Radaza said she is always concerned with the situation in Olango Island and neighboring islets.

With the help of the Bureau of Fire and Protection and the Emergency Rescue Unit Foundation, the continuing education and seminar on disaster preparedness were also made.

Consolacion Mayor Teresa Alegado said  the municipal government identified flood-prone areas that need immediate concern during typhoons.

The transfer of these residents to a safer ground has been given priority by the municipal government, said Mayor Alegado.

Trainings and seminars on disaster preparedness have also been initiated by the municipal government.