SM has continuously made efforts to strengthen their disaster preparedness and to make sure that everyone within the premises are safe and protected. In coordination with Alliance for Disaster Resilient Societies (ARISE)-Philippines, SM participated in the 1st Quarter Nationwide Simultaneous Earthquake Drill (NSED) organized by National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) through the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) on March 11, 2021.
SM City Baguio joined in on the livestream of the ceremonial pressing of the button and the employees participated by performing the ‘duck, cover and hold’ maneuver.
To strengthen the knowledge and readiness of the public on earthquakes before, during, and after the earthquake, NSED is conducted quarterly with participations from LGUs and private sectors. This is to strengthen the capabilities and capacity of the national and local DDRM in their response during disasters.
The preparation and activities for NSED have been adjusted due to the pandemic. The Office of Civil Defense encouraged everyone to participate and cooperate through online activities and live streaming of the pressing of the button. During the NSED they encouraged full participation while still following the safety protocols such as social distancing and wearing of face masks. By Jessica Joy Fernando
