President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. said the government’s disaster preparedness measures are in place. He noted that agencies such as the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and the Local Government Units (LGUs) are carrying out their own preparations amid the continuous earthquakes experienced in different parts of the country over the past weeks.
In his YouTube vlog uploaded on Sunday, the President mentioned recent quakes in Cebu, Baguio, Surigao, Davao, Zambales, and Metro Manila, noting the significant damage they caused as a reminder for Filipinos to stay prepared. He emphasized that the Philippines, being located along the Pacific Ring of Fire, is naturally prone to earthquakes and volcanic eruptions.
“Our food packs and go-bags are already ready. They have been deployed to our warehouses," he said, adding that agencies like the DSWD and LGUs are doing their part to ensure readiness.
He also reminded Filipinos of the following key points:
Adequate planning
He emphasized the need for proper information dissemination within families, including children and household helpers. Everyone should know where to go and where the designated evacuation areas are located.
Go bag
Items to include in emergency bags are important documents, basic survival necessities such as canned goods, snacks, water, first aid kits, hygiene kits, flashlights, whistles, and lighters. He also encouraged keeping communication devices such as phones or radios on hand.
Reliable information
The President highlighted the importance of accessing reliable information from barangay and municipal officials, the Coast Guard, police, and first responders. He also reminded the public to familiarize themselves with emergency hotlines and be wary of fake news during disasters.
“The communication and information drive of the government has also been intensified so that our fellow citizens will be better informed," he added.