MMDA boosts 2nd MMShakeDrill awareness with new website

The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) recently announced that it will hold its 2nd metro-wide earthquake drill called MMShakeDrill on June 22, 2016. With this, they launched a website that aims to boost awareness about the upcoming event. The hashtag #mmshakedrill can also be used to spread the word on social media.

The new site mmshakedrill.ph, which is hosted on Rappler.com, contains basic vital survival tips, frequently asked questions, and a list of evacuation centers. Individuals or groups that want to participate or volunteer can sign up on the website as well.

It also details the Metro Manila Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council’s (MMDRRMC) contingency plan drawn up for the regional disaster response called Oplan Metro Yakal Plus.

To elaborate, under the Republic Act 10121 or the Philippine Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Act of 2010, the MMDRRMC will spearhead all operations when a 7.2 magnitude earthquake happens. They will be supported by Local Government Units (LGU) and the MMDA.

The 2nd MMShakeDrill will happen at the same time as the national government’s Nationwide Simultaneous Earthquake Drill on June 22, 2016 at 9:00 am. Just like last year, Metro Manila will be divided into four quadrants – North, South, East, and West - where both government and rescue volunteers will be setting up command and control camps.

The MMDA encourages participants to simulate new and more realistic scenarios to challenge the disaster preparedness and response of participating groups.

It’s great that the government is doing something to prepare everyone for the ‘big one’, so do remember all the safety and survival tips and participate in the drills.