13/11/2025
Zamboanga Peninsula Medical Center, Inc. (ZPMC) successfully conducted its Annual Earthquake Drill Orientation and Simulation on November 12, 2025, in collaboration with the Zamboanga City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (ZCDRRMO). The vital exercise was aimed at ensuring the safety of patients and staff and enhancing the facility's emergency response protocols in the event of a seismic event.
The drill began with a comprehensive orientation led by ZCDRRMO experts, who imparted crucial knowledge on disaster preparedness and response. Adding specialized insight was Engr. Allan Rommel Labayog, Science Research Analyst from the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) IX, who provided critical information on local seismic hazards and preparedness measures.
The staff also benefited from the expertise of the following speakers: Mohammad Hasbi H. Ilaji, Wedmir T. Asaali, Naowaf J. Undang, and Mark Philipp U. Cabalida. They provided detailed instructions on proper "Duck, Cover, and Hold" procedures, evacuation routes, and critical actions during and immediately after an earthquake.
Following the orientation, the simulation phase tested the ZPMC team's ability to execute their emergency plans under pressure. The exercise was closely monitored and assessed by a dedicated team of evaluators to identify areas for improvement. The evaluators were: Mark Arson C. Alejo, Ivan Angelo P. Ramillano, Basil S. Hajul, and Abdel Azsao O. Kanti. The evaluators provided crucial feedback, highlighting the importance of swift and coordinated action to minimize casualties and damage.
The successful completion of the annual earthquake drill reinforces ZPMC's commitment to patient safety and its readiness to manage critical incidents in partnership with the ZCDRRMO and PHIVOLCS.
