Cotabato City - In response to the August 5 bombing in Cotabato City, the City
Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council conducted a Mass Casualty Incident
Simulation Exercise last August 22, 2013 at the City Plaza.
The activity was participated by the City Police Office, and other concerned
agencies like the Philippine Marines, 6th Infantry Division,
Bureau of Fire Protection, SWAT, Office on Social Welfare and Development,
Office on Health Services, Cotabato Regional and Medical Center, SOCO, and the
EOD Team.
In the simulation exercises witnessed by a large crowd, was held at the city
plaza, and then a blast happened, hurting several people. Thirty volunteers
acted as killed and wounded victims during the exercise and another thirty
acted as bystanders. After the explosion, the victims were scattered on the
ground and were crying for help from the bystanders who were panicking while
some were taking photos/videos.
Secretary to the Mayor and CDRRMC Acting Officer AnicetoRasalan said, they
wanted to make the simulation as real as possible and also mimicked some scenes
during the August 5 bombing were wounding several people and 8 dead on the spot
during the daylight incidents.
“Lahatnungginawangmgatao
the last time nagkaroonng bombing incident sa city, ginawanatinsa simulation
exercise so we will be prepared also on how to control the crowd while rescuing
the victims”, Rasalan said.
The City Police and the Philippine Marines, together with the EOD Team were the
first to respond and cordoned the area. The rescue groups and the medical teams
followed to assist the victims.
“The
main goal of a mass casualty incident simulation exercises is to prepare local
communities and first responders to handle disasters as effectively as
possible. Hindi langdapatangmga natural calamities angatingpinaghahandaan, even
man-made disasters like the bombing can strike anytime so we should also be
prepared for that”, Rasalan added.
The activity was successful with all the concerned agencies able to fulfill
their tasks.
Prior to the simulation activity, the City Peace and Order Council convened and
sought the active participation of the people in crime prevention. Local
authorities were urging the citizens of Cotabato City to stay vigilant at all
times and immediately report any suspicious men and activities happening within
their area.
“Let
us not just rely on the police or the Marines to watch over us 24/7. We all
know that they are really undermanned. We all have a role to play in keeping
our Citysafe and secure from attacks just like what happened last August 5.”, City
Mayor JapalGuiani said.
Meanwhile, the City Government continues to assist the injured victims in their
hospitalization and other expenses. As per latest record, 25 of the 30 victims
are now released from the hospital and already went home. (with report by Becky
D. de Asis)
