On July 4, 2024 the UPRI, represented by IB Chief Science Research Specialist Jose Abraham Ongkiko and IB Junior Project Assistant Franklin Joshua Gali conducted a preliminary engagement meeting with the UP Diliman National Institute of Geological Sciences (NIGS). Representing NIGS was OIC-Director Noelynna T. Ramos, Building Administrator Julius Pagaduan, Deputy Director Sandra G. Catane, John Dale Dianala, Kristine M. Velasquez, and Estrellita Aviera-Larcena. The main topic of the meeting was the proposed Seminar on Earthquake Response and Safety Protocol by NIGS.
Image 1: UPRI IB Chief Jose Abraham Ongkiko discussing with NIGS representatives the previously conducted Emergency Preparedness Plan Workshop-Training
The meeting began with the UP Diliman NIGS representatives providing a background on the practices done by the College for emergency preparedness. Included in these practices are the participation in the Nationwide Simultaneous Earthquake Drill and development of existing evacuation and floor plans. In order to further develop the capacities of the College, NIGS shared their plan to conduct a seminar on emergency response and safety with a focus on earthquakes. With this objective in mind, IB Chief Jose Ongkiko shared with the group the rapid assessments and Emergency Preparedness Plan (EPP) training-workshops conducted by UPRI.
Image 2: Group photo featuring IB Chief Jose Abraham Ongkiko with NIGS representatives
IB Chief Ongkiko shared in detail the activities and multi-hazard approach of the EPP training-workshop. In response, the representatives of NIGS recognized the need to prepare for emergencies besides earthquakes and cited a recent experience with a fire which resulted in a damaged power line. The College also expressed their interest in the services described by IB Chief Ongkiko and requested to schedule these. It was agreed that a rapid assessment of UP Diliman NIGS will be conducted on July 15, 2024. Furthermore, the EPP workshop-training for the College is scheduled on August 15-16, 2024 with coordination and communication for the finalization of details through Mr. Pagaduan.
Prepared by:
Franklin Joshua Gali
Junior Project Assistant