Quezon city: The Quezon City government is advancing its disaster preparedness initiatives by integrating them into everyday workplace culture with the introduction of the Awareness, Lifesaving, Emergency Response Training, or ALERT QC, for business owners and their employees.

According to Philippines News Agency, the citywide program aims to equip the private sector with essential lifesaving and emergency readiness skills. The initiative will offer a three-day training session designed for businesspeople, safety officers, and staff responders, focusing on earthquake preparedness, fire safety, emergency response, and first aid to ensure workplace safety throughout the city.

The program is spearheaded by the city's Business Permits and Licensing Department (BPLD) alongside the Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (DRRMO). It intends to make every office compliant, confident, and capable during crises. The inaugural training session is scheduled for November 3 to 5 at the Quantum Skyview in Gateway Mall 2.

With a total of 13 training sessions planned from November to December across major malls in Quezon City, ALERT QC is expected to engage thousands of participants, including small and medium enterprises, safety teams, and human resource practitioners. The program also includes the BE RICHER scorecard-a comprehensive self-assessment tool designed to help organizations evaluate and enhance their overall resilience.

Mayor Joy Belmonte emphasized the importance of the initiative, stating that it aims to collaborate with the business community to create safe, inclusive, and future-ready workplaces. The ultimate goal is to position Quezon City as not only a business hub but also a model of resilience and preparedness.