Marawi City, Lanao del Sur – In a proactive move to bolster disaster resilience among the youth, the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO) of Lanao del Sur, in partnership with the College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics (CNSM) of Mindanao State University-Main Campus, the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), and the MSU Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (MSU-DRRM) Office, successfully held a two-day training on Standard First Aid and Basic Life Support (BLS), coupled with an Earthquake and Fire Preparedness Drill.
The training, held from May 14 to 15, 2025, at the CNSM premises in MSU-Main Campus, gathered student leaders for an intensive series of lectures, demonstrations, and simulation exercises aimed at enhancing their emergency response capabilities and leadership skills during disasters.
Led by the PDRRMO Training Team under Engr. Lindy M. Macawadib, Chief of Operations and Warning Division, along with trainers from the BFP-Marawi City Fire Station and medical professionals, the first day of the training focused on life-saving interventions. Participants learned vital first aid techniques such as wound management, fracture immobilization, and proper handling of medical emergencies, reinforced through hands-on practice.
The second day highlighted disaster response strategies for earthquakes and fire incidents. Students actively participated in drills that included evacuation procedures, identification of safe zones, and coordination protocols. A live fire suppression demonstration by the BFP allowed students to experience using fire extinguishers and executing emergency evacuation under realistic conditions.
The initiative not only empowered student leaders with practical emergency response skills but also underscored the value of youth engagement in community-based disaster preparedness. Participants commended the organizers for the immersive and educational experience, which they said boosted both their confidence and competence in handling crisis situations.
The activity forms part of the ongoing efforts of Lanao del Sur and MSU to build a disaster-resilient academic community aligned with the country’s national framework on disaster risk reduction and emergency preparedness.