DFA CO in San Fernando Pampanga Distributes “Handa Ako” Gadgets to Kick Off Disaster Resiliency Campaign

“Handa Ako” kits distributed by the DFA CO Pampanga. (CO Pampanga photo)

SAN FERNANDO CITY 17 July 2023 — The DFA Consular Office in San Fernando Pampanga distributed “Handa Ako” emergency kits on 03 July 2023 as it kicked off its disaster resiliency campaign. The SOS kit, containing a flashlight and a whistle, can be worn by individual users through a lanyard and can be very useful in times of calamities. 

Following the theme “BIDAng Pilipino: Building a Stronger Filipino Well-being towards Disaster Resilience”, the consular office believes that disaster preparedness is the key to disaster resiliency. Thus, to intensify this campaign, Mr. Jonathan Santos, CO’s focal person on disaster and security concerns also conducted briefings to applicants on safety measures during calamities. Flyers on disaster prevention and preparedness were also made available to applicants. The office also rendered its free blood pressure and sugar checks to applicants during the campaign. 

The consular office recently updated its contingency plan and evacuation plan, and conducted briefing on safety procedures during earthquake and fire. Fire extinguishers were checked and personnel grab bags were upgraded. In addition, the office, particularly its security personnel, also actively participated in various disaster preparedness activities such as earthquake and fire drills.  

Region III is prone to natural calamities, particularly the Province of Pampanga, as it is susceptible to flooding, is vulnerable to landslides and earthquakes, and is prone to storm surges. Central Luzon was heavily affected during the deadly eruption of Mount Pinatubo in 1991.

The safety briefings, distribution of “Handa Ako” emergency gadgets and flyers will continue until the end of July 2023. END

The safety briefing of the DFA CO Pampanga to the audience. (CO Pampanga photo)

The health drive organized by the DFA CO Pampanga. (CO Pampanga photo)