By Mikee Natinga Norico
A timely response: CPU students, faculty, and staff practice orderly evacuations during the campus-wide earthquake preparedness drill.
A one-hour campus-wide earthquake drill was conducted at Central Philippine University (CPU) on February 21, 2025, as part of the university’s ongoing efforts to enhance disaster preparedness and evaluate emergency response protocols. The drill, which involved all departments and offices, aimed to test the readiness and capability of the university community in the event of an earthquake.
At the sound of the siren, students, faculty, and staff promptly executed the “Duck, Cover, and Hold” protocol, demonstrating discipline and urgency. Emergency response teams swiftly took action, guiding participants to designated evacuation areas while simulating real-life rescue and medical scenarios.
The exercise featured multiple emergency simulations, including gas leaks and falling debris, designed to assess response effectiveness across various campus locations. These scenarios provided valuable training for all participants, reinforcing the importance of proper coordination and teamwork during disasters. Aside from the scripted scenarios, unexpected real-life incidents occurred during the drill. Some participants lost consciousness, while others required medical attention. Several individuals were accompanied by emergency teams to ensure their safety and immediate care.
Simulating real disaster scenarios: Emergency teams offer immediate care and evacuate participants to safe areas during the earthquake drill at CPU.
“The main objective of this drill is to instill in our students and all of us here at CPU the significance of participating in such exercises. We cannot predict when disasters will happen, so preparation is key,” stated Mr. Manguito, one of the safety personnel stationed at the Big Field.
Throughout the drill, students, faculty, and staff practiced essential safety techniques and orderly evacuations to designated safe zones, such as the Halfmoon Field and Big Field. Emergency response teams, including the Incident Management Team, medical teams from the College of Medicine and College of Nursing, ROTC officers, barangay officials, and the Bureau of Fire Protection – Iloilo City, worked alongside emergency responders and volunteers from the Red Cross Youth stationed along Anahaw Road.
The presence of first aid stations and the active participation of various stakeholders underscored CPU’s commitment to fostering a culture of safety and preparedness. By conducting this drill, the university continues to strengthen its resilience against unforeseen disasters, ensuring the well-being of its academic community.