OCD-ARMM trains disaster responders on Basic Incident Command System

• Source: http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?nid=2&rid=945928
• Tuesday, December 6, 2016

(PNA), LAP/NYP/EOF

COTABATO CITY, Dec. 6 (PNA) -– To equip disaster first responders, the Office of Civil Defense in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (OCD-ARMM) kicks off today, (Dec. 6) a three-day Basic Incident Command System (ICS) Training for the key players in Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (DRRM), officials said.

The training is being conducted at El Manor Hotel here and will end on Dec. 8, Thursday.

The ICS enhances disaster response by ensuring the protection of first responders and the victims, the achievement of tactical objectives, and the efficient use of resources.

Applying ICS at all levels will help avoid the same mistakes that responders did in the past incidents, Myrna Angot, OCD-ARMM reginal director, told reporters.

At the end of the training, the participants are expected to be able to: enhance understanding of Incident Command System as a vital tool for effective disaster response; provide an overview of ICS, its background, concepts, principles and features, capabilities, organization, facilities and common terminologies, and demonstrate knowledge on basic ICS functions through exercises & class discussion context.

Angot said the Philippines is exposed to disasters because of its geographical location.

She cited Maguidanao and Lanao del Sur which are prone to recurring disasters like flash floods, landslides aside from man-made calamities.

Armed conflict was present in Maguindanao, Lana del Sur, Basilan and Sulu. As to the island provinces of Basilan, Sulu and Tawi-Tawi located near the Sulu Trench, OCD officials are aware of hazards such as earthquake and tsunami.

"We need to identify gaps in order to address the problems that hamper our works. ICS trainings will maximize resources to fast track research and rescue operations. Agencies and individuals must proactively participate in this endeavor. As public servants, commitment, perseverance, dedication and hard work are necessary for us to be effective and efficient in our efforts particularly on DRRM," Angot said.

To stress a point, Angot quoted the words of global philanthropist Petra Nemcova: “We cannot stop natural disasters but we can arm ourselves with knowledge. So many lives wouldn’t have to be lost if there was enough disaster preparedness.”

Ramil Masukat, director of the Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Coucil (RDRRMC) ARMM-Humanitarian Emergency Action Response Team (HEART), emphasized the need to complete the training and involve participants fully in the discussions.

He added ICS is vital in emergency crises and during big events where famous personalities are present.

The lectures in the training will be given by ‘Cadres’ or experts on ICS and DRRM.

Mr. Ranny Magno, National Cadre and Chief, Subic Bay Metropolitan Agency (SBMA), will serve as course monitor for the duration of the training.

Along with him are other cadres who will also deepen the discussions by sharing relevant experiences and contextual examples.

Among them are Lita Enok, Cadre and Former Regional Director of OCD Regions 12 and ARMM and Carmelito Lupo, former director of OCD Regions 9 and 12.