By Tyrone Jay V. Samson

With the recent catastrophe brought about by typhoons Ondoy and Pepeng, the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) recently declared the observance of the National Disaster Preparedness Month from October 20 to November 21.

In accordance with such memorandum, the DMC College Foundation held a one-day Disaster Preparedness Seminar at the DMC Auditorium last November 13.

Representatives from various entities like CHED, Office of Civil Defense Region IX, PAGASA and PHIVOLCS were on hand to share their expertise to the student participants.

Representing DMC are 15 students including Jobanie Agias, Peter Alegarbes, Rose Dolor Cabilin, Paterno Cimafranca, Rainier Rhett Concha, Janrey Cuenca, Nazra Divinagracia, Bernadette Egual, John Bryan Fernolles, Shielden Vi Gallemit, Jaysa Krystle Guijaro, Ivory Mae Legados, Kemi Maco, Aiza Magcanta and Butch Tambac. They were accompanied by Assistant Emergency Coordinator Jeffrey Laput and Student Affairs Coordinator Cherrie Rose Sagario.

“The seminar was an eye-opener for all of us. In light with the recent tragedy brought about by Ondoy and Pepeng, I hope that we have learned our lesson that tragedies will happen in times when we are most vulnerable. We need to be prepared to act during situations of life and death, moments when we need to help and save others. After today, I believe that these students are now well-equipped to handle disastrous situations,” Laput said.