CAMP OLIVAS, Pampanga — More than 1,000 individuals, including police officers, civilian employees, police applicants, and students, took part in the Police Regional Office 3 (PRO3)’s earthquake preparedness drill on Thursday, 6 November, demonstrating the region’s ongoing commitment to disaster readiness.

The 4th Quarter Nationwide Simultaneous Earthquake Drill (NSED), spearheaded by the Regional Community Affairs and Development Division under PCOL Ferdinand D. Germino, was held inside Camp Olivas to strengthen awareness and improve emergency response procedures among personnel and community stakeholders.

Once the alarm sounded, participants immediately performed the “Duck, Cover, and Hold” procedure before safely evacuating to the designated assembly point at the Parade Ground. Wearing protective gear, they moved in an orderly manner while observing evacuation protocols.

To enhance the realism of the exercise, responders from the Regional Medical and Dental Unit (RMDU) conducted simulated rescue and first aid operations, including casualty assessment and evacuation techniques.

PRO3 Director PBGEN Ponce Rogelio I. Peñones Jr. emphasized that readiness is a core responsibility of the police service.

“Preparedness is not just a routine; it is our duty to the people we serve,” PBGEN Peñones said. “Aligned with the PNP Focused Agenda on Enhanced Managing Police Operations, we are committed to strengthening risk management plans and ensuring everyone knows their roles before, during, and after any calamity.”

The drill reinforces PRO3’s proactive stance on disaster resilience—protecting communities, maintaining peace and order, and upholding professional service while placing preparedness at the forefront of public safety.