SouthCot readies contingency plans on quakes

The Provincial Government of South Cotabato has readied contingency plans if a series of aftershocks will continue.
Governor Reynaldo S. Tamayo, chairperson of the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council (PDRRMC) sets a priority for said contingency plans to the South Cotabato Provincial Hospital and the South Cotabato Rehabilitation and Detention Center as these facilities are most vulnerable.
For the SCPH, Tamayo ordered for the positioning of tents as makeshift shelters in front of the hospital premises as an evacuation center.
When a 5 or 6 Magnitude quake will happen, the sound of siren will signal for the mandatory evacuation that all patients and clients need to be evacuated to a designated area while a team from the Provincial Engineering Office (PEO) and the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) will inspect the area if it is safe to go back.
“This will ensure the safety of all patients and clients as well as to avoid a stampede,” Tamayo said,
He also ensures adequate water supplies and food for responders, as well as first aid kits during emergencies.
For the SCRDC, Governor Tamayo ordered the jail warden for the submission of a contingency plan and to ensure that the persons deprived of liberty will be taken to safer grounds inside the provincial jail during aftershocks.
Private establishments such as malls and restaurants are also enjoined to set up their own respective treatment areas on fields such that, not all patients suffering from hyperventilation due to anxiety attacks do not need to be taken to the hospitals.
Meanwhile, employees should be oriented on their evacuation plans during quakes.
The council approved the purchase of additional hard hats to be used by employees during emergencies and rescue operations.
“We don’t know when these quakes will stop, we need to be ready,” Tamayo said,
A series of strong aftershocks were felt from the 6.7 magnitude that hits Tulunan in North Cotabato on October 16, 2019.
Early this week, classes were suspended in the entire province due to the intensity 6 quake that caused damages to homes and infrastructures as well as the death of at least one resident.
On Thursday (October 31) another intensity 5 was felt in the province which caused fear and anxiety to at least 79 patients who were brought to the South Cotabato Provincial Hospital.
Governor Tamayo said, the province has readied Php15 million allocation from its Quick Response Fund in times of disasters.