Soldiers, cops finish disaster readiness training in Ormoc City

ORMOC CITY, Philippines — A total of 12 soldiers of the Philippine Army and 27 policemen of this city graduated as responders after more than a month of rigorous training on water rescue, high angle rescue, basic life support and standard first aid.

The graduates were trained by the Ormoc Rescue Team, a well-equipped and well-trained unit that has been considered among the best in Eastern Visayas. It was also the first of its kind of training in the region.

During the graduation rites held at the city's Superdome yesterday, guests were treated with an actual demonstration of the new responders, who descended 75 feet from the rafters to show how they would rescue two "injured mountaineers" who fell into a "ravine."

The graduates, in their rescue demonstration, then applied first aid to the "victims' before hauling the latter back upwards, using baskets, ropes and other equipment. They rappelled down, applied first aid to the victims before hauling them back upwards using baskets, ropes and other light rescue equipment.

According to Mayor Edward Codilla, the city has continued to improve, enhance and train more personnel, even after getting accolades from various sectors and institutions in Eastern Visayas for its disaster responsiveness, especially during the Yolanda devastation.

Codilla, in his message, said it was necessary to be always prepared. "We don't know the time when your skills, courage and dedication will be put to test," he said. "We have to be one step ahead in any eventualities, especially with the effect of climate change and other man-made disasters."

The mayor assured also the new responders of the city government's continuing support, as he acknowledge the effort of City Police director, Sr. Supt. Jose Macanas, for the success of the training.

Major Cydel Dawaten, who spoke in behalf of Col. Dino Dolina, 802nd Infantry Brigade commander, said it was also necessary to "involve more civilians in the future search and rescue trainings." (FREEMAN)