CAGAYAN de Oro City faced scrutiny for the absence of its rescue team at the recently concluded Fourth Quarter National Simultaneous Earthquake Drill (NSED) 2024 held in Camiguin.

The drill, aimed at enhancing disaster preparedness, included responders from municipalities, cities, and provinces across Northern Mindanao. Both Cagayan de Oro City and Iligan City were noticeably absent.

The Office of Civil Defense (OCD) Undersecretary Ariel Nepomuceno pointed out the importance of local governments aligning disaster equipment with their area’s specific hazards.

The Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (PDRRMC) of Camiguin demonstrated their response capabilities in a large-scale National Simultaneous Earthquake Drill (NSED) yesterday (November 14), which simulated the catastrophic effects of a magnitude 6.8 oceanic volcanic eruption.

For instance, he noted that landslide-prone regions like the Cordilleras should prioritize landslide-response equipment, while Camiguin’s tsunami and flood risks necessitate appropriate tools.

Camiguin Governor Xavier Jesus Romualdo highlighted the province’s need for a sea ambulance to address emergency evacuations during disasters.

He urged OCD to assist with funding, citing the high cost of such vessels, estimated at P20 million each.

Romualdo assured that local governments would shoulder maintenance costs.

Nepomuceno pledged OCD’s support, emphasizing the agency’s commitment to strengthening regional disaster response capabilities.