Zanorte-PDRRMC trains disaster responders on boat handling

by Alfonso T. Ruda

DIPOLOG CITY, FEB. 20 (PIA)---Due to recent flashfloods that hit Dapitan City and other parts of Zamboanga del Norte, the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council has decided to strengthen the capability of its members during rescue operations.

Elements of the 42^nd Special Forces Battalion under the command of 1Lt. Rodelo Famulag based in Taguuilon, Dapitan City has conducted training on boat handling training to more than 20 members of the Zanorte-PDRRMC last February 17 at the shoreline of Punta Corro in Dipolog City.

Engr. Dennis Joseph Tenorio, Zanorte-PDRRMC Action Officer said  participants came  from the PDRRMC, Provincial Health Office, and Zanorte Medical Center Team.

The training aims to improve the capability of the Provincial disaster response team to handle emergency situations during rescue operations, particularly when the boat capsizes.

The undertaking was also to prepare its members of the arrival of the three (3) inflatable rubber boats which the Provincial Government will be having very soon. “The public bidding for the purchase of the said rubber boats is now on-going,” Tenorio said.

Right now, Zanorte PDRRMC has an ambulance, a patrol boat, a number of life jackets, portable chainsaw (with the sub-offices of the Provincial Engineering Office), portable generator set, and heavy equipment of the PEO for its disaster response operations.

Presently, the PDRRMC is only relying on the speedboat lent by the Office of Civil Defense Regional Office IX for its rescue operation in the province of Zamboanga del Norte.

Tenorio said that except for some office staff, other members of the PDRRMC are employees of the Provincial Government and will only convene as disaster responders when emergency situation arises.

It maybe recalled that the PDRRMC, together with other government agencies and civic organizations have helped in the evacuation of the affected residents in 11 barangays of Dapitan City which were affected by the recent flashflood that made the Macasoy Bridge in Oyan, Dapitan City not passable by big vehicles.(ATR/PIA9-Zambo Norte)