ILOILO City – Amid growing concerns about the country’s vulnerability to earthquakes, Iloilo City is stepping up its readiness to confront worst-case scenarios such as widespread structural collapse, with elite urban rescue teams, advanced life-saving equipment, and intensified community awareness.
“While we hope we never have to deal with such an event, we are confident in our readiness should an earthquake occur and buildings collapse,” said Darwin Joemil Papa, chief of the Disaster Response Division of the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO).
Papa said Iloilo City’s Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) Unit has been fully trained and strategically equipped to handle complex disaster scenarios. The unit boasts thermal cameras, rescue cutters, gas monitors, and bunker gear, all regularly maintained to ensure maximum operational efficiency during emergencies.
Heading the USAR unit is Darryl Darwyn Thulasidas, a US Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)-certified responder, whose expertise helps ensure that the city’s rescue operations meet international standards.
The personnel have undergone rigorous training in both Urban Search and Rescue and Collapsed Structure Search and Rescue (CSSR), with certifications from the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority.
According to Papa, the city can deploy three to four full rescue teams — each with 30 responders — comprising CSSR technicians, hazardous materials specialists, rope access technicians, and FEMA-certified structural collapse specialists.
“We are working closely with the Bureau of Fire Protection to strengthen coordination and ensure that all responders are familiar with the specialized equipment used in earthquake rescues,” he added.
Weekly simulation drills also test the readiness of teams in extreme scenarios like zero visibility and smoke-filled environments, Papa said, further preparing the personnel for real-life emergencies.
Beyond government resources, Iloilo City’s disaster resilience strategy includes robust collaboration with private sector partners and volunteer organizations such as the Federation Iloilo Fire Brigade, Inc. and the Iloilo Citizens Action Group, Inc. These partners contribute essential equipment, manpower, and logistics support during major calamities.
Public education remains a cornerstone of the city’s earthquake preparedness efforts. Papa urged residents to take personal responsibility by learning basic safety responses during tremors.
“Whatever belongings are left inside, no matter how valuable, do not attempt to retrieve them until the building is confirmed to be safe,” he advised.
Through its comprehensive, multi-sectoral approach to earthquake readiness, Iloilo City aims to safeguard lives and ensure swift, organized response in the face of disaster./PN
