Republic of the Philippines
Department of Education – Region III

SCHOOLS Division Office of Olongapo City

Philippine Standard Time:

DepEd Olongapo City Strengthens Disaster Preparedness in Nationwide Earthquake Drill!

By: Glenn D. Tipay, EPS II-SMN

Olongapo City, Philippines – March 13, 2025

The Schools Division Office (SDO) of Olongapo City, in collaboration with all 40 public schools under its jurisdiction, is actively participating in the First Quarter Nationwide Simultaneous Earthquake Drill (NSED) scheduled for today, March 13, 2025.

This initiative is part of a broader national effort led by the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) to enhance disaster preparedness across various sectors, with educational institutions playing a central role.

In Olongapo City, the earthquake drill is set to initiate at 9:00 AM, involving thousands of students, teachers, and administrative personnel. The drill aims to simulate realistic earthquake scenarios, allowing participants to practice the “Drop, Cover, and Hold” technique, followed by orderly evacuations to designated safe zones within school premises. These exercises are designed to instill a culture of safety and ensure that both students and staff are well-prepared to respond effectively in the real scenario.

The SDO of Olongapo City remains committed to the safety and well-being of its students and staff. By actively participating in the NSED, the division focuses on the importance of preparedness and resilience in the face of natural disasters.

As the drill movements today, the community is reminded of the critical role that preparedness plays in disaster risk reduction. The collective efforts of schools, local authorities, and national agencies serve as evidence to the country’s dedication to building a safer and more resilient society.