DOST, LGU Camiguin step up disaster response via contingency plan crafting

By Recthie Paculba

– Leading the formulation of a contingency plan for a volcanic eruption, the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) works hand in hand with the Provincial Government of Camiguin to further strengthen measures to protect the people of the province, at the Camiguin Convention Center, here, on April 12.

CAMIGUIN dents to determine if their area is affected by certain hazards, design and construct their houses properly, use sturdy materials, and look at the subsurface condition while ensuring good workmanship.

He also added that “to prepare” means one must prepare for what to do during and after the earthquake event.

“Importante itong workshop (this workshop is important) for you to consider different scenarios so that, God forbid, if something happens again, be it a volcanic eruption or an earthquake, you are ready. Please use science and technology, and please use collective preparation so that you, your family, and your residents will be assured of your safety,” said DOST Sec. Renato Solidum Jr.

Citing the province’s geographical location, the secretary stressed that if there is an additional supply of magma, the province may experience another volcanic eruption.

To prepare for such a disaster, he urged the resi-

“Let us be mindful that Camiguin Island is blessed by God with volcanoes; that is why you have very good lanzones, you have many good tourism sites. But God also reminds us that from time to time these volcanoes can explode,” Solidum said.

Integrating disaster response into local governance

Noting the importance of properly responding to calamities or disasters, Gov. Xavier Jesus Romualdo said the provincial government will take the lead on holding drills after the formulation of the plan and ensure that such will be practiced regularly.

“When it comes to a volcanic eruption, all of us— the entire province—and those of us who are tasked, who have the duty to respond will also have to think of their own families. That’s why it’s very important for us to have planning in place, the protocols in place, and after, once we come up with a plan,” Romualdo said.

Rep. Jurdin Jesus Romualdo further supported such an initiative and added that the provincial government will work on the institutionalization of the contingency planning and its implementation down to the grassroots level.