A quick guide to the NCR-wide #MMShakeDrill on July 30

On July 30, the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) will be conducting an NCR-wide earthquake drill in multi-sectoral cooperation with schools, business, government agencies, and religious organizations.

 

Here's a quick rundown of what to expect.

 

Where will the #MMshakedrill take place?

 

The drill will happen across the entire Metro Manila. The metropolis will be divided into four areas or quadrants, each of which will be focused on a particular set of emergencies. Each quadrant will also have its own central command and evacuation center.

 

The quadrants are:

 

WESTERN QUADRANT

Included cities: Manila, Navotas, Malabon

Scenario: Earthquake, fire

Designated evacuation/command center: Intramuros Golf Course

• Rajah Sulayman Plaza, Manila / Manila Diamond Area
• Pasig River
• Pier

NORTHERN QUADRANT

Included cities: Quezon, Caloocan, Valenzuela, San Juan, Mandaluyong

Scenario: Medical emergency

Designated evacuation/command center: Veterans' Memorial Medical Center Golf Course

EASTERN QUADRANT

Included cities: Marikina, Pasig

Scenario: Fallen structures

Designated evacuation/command center: LRT2 Santolan Depot
Focal points:

 

SOUTHERN QUADRANT

Included cities: Pasay, Makati, Parañaque, Las Piñas, Muntinlupa, Pateros, Taguig

Scenario: Debris cleaning

Designated evacuation/command center: Villamor Air Base Golf Course
Focal points:

What should I do to prepare for the #MMshakedrill?

 

Talk to the authorities in your area about the designated safety areas and evacuation plans in case of an actual earthquake. Learn to identify potentially hazardous areas—glass windows, for example, or places where you can easily be hit by falling objects—and stay away from them.

 

Learn to protect yourself in the event of an actual quake by understanding and memorizing the "DROP, COVER, HOLD" procedure:

 

 

 

What should I expect to happen with the #MMshakedrill?

 

At exactly 10:30 a.m., all radio stations have been asked to broadcast "earthquake sounds" for 45 seconds. All churches have been asked to ring their bells, and all fire stations and LGU offices will activate their sirens and fire alarms. 

 

Also at the designated time, traffic enforcers will go into the streets with "earthquake drill" signs to inform motorists of the ongoing activity. Vehicles will be asked to stop their cars for 45 seconds. PUJs, AUVs, and most public transport will be joining the activity.

 

There will also be a separate night drill at 8 p.m. in the Ortigas Business District.
 

 

How do I participate in the #MMshakedrill?

 

The authorities in your area—in your barangay, in school, at work, in church, or in the hospital—should have designated safety personnel who will guide you on what to do.

 

At the designated time, earthquake sounds will be played on the radio, sirens will be sounded, and authorities will inform you that the drill is underway. 

 

Perform the DROP, COVER, HOLD procedure when told, and await additional instructions.

 

For purposes of the drill, everyone including PUVs and private vehicles on the road will be advised to participate. However, vital infrastructure such as hospital equipment and trains will not be halted.

 

What do I do after the #MMshakedrill?

 

Always listen to authorities and pay close attention to their instructions. You will be told when the drill is over and when you can resume your normal activities.

 

Authorities may conduct a post-assessment of the activity, so feel free to inform them of your experiences.

 

Be sure to share photos and videos of the drill on social media, using the hashtags #MMquakedrill and #IMready. — with Bea Montenegro, GMA News