DATE: March 13, 2025

Yearly, SJWD would participate in the Quarterly National Simultaneous Earthquake Drill headed by the Office of Civil Defense. This year it was held on March 13, 2025 at around 3 pm. It reflects the organization’s commitment to disaster preparedness and ensuring the safety of both its employees and the communities it serves.

Participation in this national event is essential for several reasons:

* Testing Disaster Response Procedures:

SJWD can assess its internal disaster response procedures and the effectiveness of its emergency protocols. This ensures that employees know how to react in the event of an earthquake and that the necessary actions are taken to protect its services.

* Ensuring Continuity of Service:

As a public service utility, SJWD’s role in providing water is critical, especially during and after an earthquake. The drill helps identify how to maintain or restore water supply services in case of damage to infrastructure, such as pipelines, reservoirs, or treatment plants. Being prepared for such disruptions is crucial for disaster resilience.

* Employee Safety:

Earthquakes pose significant risks to employees, both in their offices and during field operations. Participating in the drill enables SJWD to practice evacuation plans, secure safe zones, and ensure that all personnel are trained in the appropriate emergency actions, minimizing the risk of injury or harm.

* Coordination with Local Authorities:

The NSED encourages coordination with the San Juan LGU and other emergency response agencies such as the MDRRMO, BFP and Red Cross San Juan is crucial for employee and community safety.

*Aligning with National and Local Policies:

Participation in the NSED demonstrates SJWD’s adherence to national and local disaster risk reduction policies, ensuring it is following the best practices outlined by the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) and other relevant agencies.

* Fostering a Culture of Safety and Preparedness:

Regular participation in drills helps build a culture of preparedness within the organization. This culture of safety extends beyond the workforce to the communities they serve, creating an environment where safety is prioritized in every aspect of operations.

San Juan Water District’s participation is a significant step in bolstering the Philippines’ overall disaster resilience. It not only strengthens SJWD’s internal preparedness but also enhances the broader disaster response framework by ensuring that water services can be maintained or quickly restored following an earthquake. This proactive approach to disaster risk reduction contributes to the safety and well-being of the community while reinforcing the district’s role as a critical service provider in times of crisis.