25 July 2023, Cotabato City. The Philippine Statistics Authority – Regional Statistical Services Office in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (PSA-RSSO-BARMM) had successfully conducted a lecture on Basic First-Aid and Disaster Management programs as part of the month-long activities for the celebration of the 49th Nutrition Month and National Disaster Resilience Month held onsite at the Shariff Makhdum Hall, PSA-BARMM, Cotabato City and participated online Teleconferencing for the Provincial Statistical Offices in the region.
This was spearheaded by the OIC Regional Director, Engr. Akan G. Tula, and was made possible through partnership with the Bureau of Fire Protection, Cotabato City.
Meanwhile, the BFP counterpart is spearheaded by Chief Superintendent Jerry C. Lamanero represented by Ms. Bai Nina M. Dacanay, Senior Fire Officer III; and accompanied by BFP officers and firefighters.
Chief Superintendent Lamanero enlightened everyone how the role of BFP extends beyond mere firefighting. In fact, it encompasses prevention, education, disaster preparedness, and collaborating with other government agencies to create a safer and more resilient community.
Meanwhile, RD Tula stressed how natural disasters remain a pervasive threat to communities causing immense devastation and loss. A powerful message was quoted from Petra Nemcova, who emphasized, "We cannot stop natural disasters, but we can equip ourselves with knowledge; so many lives wouldn't have to be lost if there was enough disaster preparedness."
The lectures and demonstrations consist of basic life support, particularly proper conduct of Cardio-Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR); fire and earthquake drills, and the role of citizens in emergency response operations. Moreover, participants performed different set-ups in demonstration of CPR; and collectively conducted fire and earthquake drills.
Profoundly, conducting lectures on first aid and disaster management is an investment in public safety as it empowers individuals, strengthens community resilience, and ensures a faster, more effective response during emergencies. Ms. Melanie Mohammad, Information Officer I, Nutrition focal is very grateful that the request for this lecture was granted and noted that this was the first time of the office to have such a lecture.
Mr. Edward Donald F. Eloja, the OIC SOCD, reiterated how assessments are crucial before taking necessary actions in responding to emergency situations as it will provide a solid foundation of knowledge, help in setting priorities, minimize risks, and ensure that actions are appropriate and effective.
While it is true that we cannot prevent these calamities nor fully prepare for it, we possess the ability to equip ourselves with knowledge and preparedness to mitigate their impact, SOCD Eloja concluded.
ENGR. AKAN G TULA
OIC-Regional Director
EDFE/MSM/SGU
