Laborers, coops get DRRM training

THE OFFICE of Civil Defense Cordillera (OCD-CAR) continues to reach out to various sectors through conduct of capacitybuilding programs.

A three-day community-based Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (CBDRRM) training course for the workers in the informal sector was held on June 6-8.

A two-day DRRM training was also conducted for private sectors particularly cooperatives in Baguio City and Benguet held on June 6-7.

“Cordillera region is not new to natural disasters may it be typhoon or earthquake causing massive loss and destruction that is why we are investing on educating our different stakeholders,” remarked Andrew Alex Uy, Cordillera RDRRMC chairperson.

Training courses are incorporation of lectures and drills aiming to empower and educate the marginalized sectors on how to prepare for and respond to emergency situations or disaster.

Modules discussed include understanding weather hazards and geological hazards and roles of the private sectors on DRRM, earthquake preparedness, basic first aid and bandaging techniques, and other systems and mechanisms related to DRRM.

Participants were very receptive in each lecture delivered by subject-matter experts from the field – Local DRRM officers, weather experts, healthcare provider, and civil defense officers.

Estella Florendo, one of the participants confessed the lack of knowledge on DRRM and its various machineries and outlets.

“I have some idea about disaster preparedness but I admit that it is not enough. This opportunity would be very helpful for us”, she said.

OCD-CAR is aiming to provide trainings to 14 vulnerable sectors identified by the National Anti-Poverty Commission (NAPC) children, senior citizen, PWDs, farmers, Cooperatives, youth and students, and other basic sectors.

“We would like to ensure that there is an equal opportunity when it comes to DRRM education,” added Uy.