QCPD holds bomb-blast simulation drill in Cubao

The Quezon City Police District (QCPD) conducted a simulation of a bomb blast in Cubao's busy business district on Tuesday as part of a drill aimed to boost awareness and preparedness for possible terror attacks.

According to Marisol Abdurahman in her report for Balitanghali, the simulated blast took place in a food park after the "suspect" was seen placing a mysterious bag in the area.

After the "explosion," firefighters, security personnel, policemen and medics arrived at the scene and immediately evacuated civilians.

The designated deputy station commander and his men were seen sealing off the area and setting up a command post, while personnel from the Philippine National Police's explosive ordnance disposal (OED) team inspected the area.

Another "bomb" that was discovered by operatives was carefully disabled by a robot deployed by a bomb technician.

Once ground-zero was declared bomb-free, scene of the crime operations (SOCO) were allowed to enter the area.

Medics and Red Cross representatives were also allowed to give the rest of the victims first aid and rushed them to safety. 

According to QCPD district director Police Brigadier General Joselito Esquivel, Jr., the drill being held in the Cubao business district was fitting as terrorists often target crowded areas.

Esquivel expressed confidence that the police officers who participated in the drill will know what to do in response to possible terror attacks. — Margaret Claire Layug/BM, GMA News