After Yolanda, logistics firm boosts response capabilities

CEBU, Philippines - In the aftermath of disasters, logistical challenges remain to be one of the priority concerns.

This is what Deutsche Post DHL, an international logistics firm holding office in the vicinity of Mactan-Cebu International Airport in Lapu-Lapu City, wants to address in initiating a recent disaster-response training among 30 volunteers.

Carl Schelfaut, head of the International Relations and Corporate Responsibility for Disaster Preparedness of DHL, told reporters that the training was under the company’s Get Airports Ready for Disasters or GARD program.

He said the program aims to strengthen their services in responding to calamities like the typhoon Haiyan (locally known as super typhoon Yolanda) in November 2013.

Schelfaut acknowledged that airports can be faced with delayed transport of goods after a disaster strikes in a certain area.

“We can make a difference with our logistics expertise to help ensure a swift and organized movement of all incoming materials,” he said.

He said providing necessary equipment such as forklifts, for example, will prove helpful in effective disaster response.

To avoid cargo delays, MCIA Authority General Manager Nigel Paul Villarete, who personally witnessed the training, said aid agencies that wish to unload their relief goods will be given schedules.

“We send a notice to all airmen in all airports saying any aircraft that will give aid (going to MCIA) will be given a schedule,” Villarete said.

Schelfaut said the disaster-response training was the second one to be held in the Philippines. It was the first in Cebu. The first one was held in Manila, he said.

“We chose MCIA because it has an ideal location to get as near to reality as possible,” Schelfaut said.

Once a disaster occurs, he said, the trained DHL volunteers will be mobilized.

The volunteers underwent training that started last November 7 and ended on November 10. They were taught how to control or maneuver forklifts and other support equipment in carrying and transporting goods in the cargo area.

The Deutsche Post DHL has around 60 volunteers in the Philippines.  (FREEMAN)