The Manila Electric Co. (Meralco) held its first Survival Boot Camp this week, an immersive overnight program designed to prepare employees and their families for major earthquakes and other disasters.

The two-day activity, led by the newly established Meralco Rescue Academy, focused on high-stress scenarios, including “The Big One,” a massive earthquake predicted for the Metro Manila region. In a simulation of post-disaster conditions, participating families camped overnight in tents at the Meralco Operating Center oval.

“Preparedness starts at home,” said Jerry B. Lao, Meralco first vice president and head of facilities, safety, and security management. “The Meralco Rescue Academy reflects our commitment to building a culture of readiness, one that equips not just our employees, but their families as well.”

The program included hands-on training in water sanitation, fire starting, knot tying, and basic life support. Experts from the Pasig City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office and the Bureau of Fire Protection served as facilitators, while the One Meralco Foundation provided canned goods to simulate emergency resource management.

The event concluded with a briefing on Pasig City’s specific disaster response plans, emphasizing the need for cooperation between the private sector and local government.

Meralco officials said the academy aims to standardize emergency response skills among its workforce and neighboring communities to ensure resilience during prolonged power outages or regional catastrophes.