Iloilo city: The local government and volunteer groups in Iloilo City have announced their readiness to respond to potential worst-case scenarios, as part of ongoing preparations for a significant disaster event.

According to Philippines News Agency, Darwin Papa, head of the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO) - Disaster Response Division, stated that the city government is equipped with three rescue trucks capable of medium rescue operations, allowing them to penetrate large concrete structures and medium-rise buildings. The city also possesses equipment necessary for lifting collapsed objects, which is crucial in scenarios involving trapped individuals.

The CDRRMO-Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) team comprises 10 technical rescuers skilled in managing collapsed structures, hazardous materials, and confined spaces. These rescuers undergo cross-training with organizations such as the Bureau of Fire Protection, Philippine Red Cross, and the Federation Fire and Iloilo Citizens Action Group Volunteer Fire Brigade, ensuring uniform capability and knowledge in utilizing available equipment.

The city has also formed a partnership with major construction firms through the City Engineer's Office to access heavy machinery like backhoes and cranes if required. Furthermore, high-rise buildings in Iloilo City are mandated to conduct quarterly drills to practice response procedures.

The city's preparedness was showcased during the inaugural KABALAKA (KAhublagan sa BArangay para sa LApnagon nga KAhandaan sa Kalamidad) Expo, a community-based disaster preparedness event held on August 29-30 this year.

In addition, the city government has scheduled a series of earthquake drills from Wednesday to Friday. These drills will commence with the lower floors of the city hall building and progressively involve higher floors, culminating with exercises that include the transacting public.