Knowhow of Valenzuelanos in disaster preparedness were taken a step further as the City Government of Valenzuela through the Local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (LDRRMO) launches the first Valenzuela City Disaster Resilience and Survival Expo at the VC Tent, ALERT Center, November 8 to10, 2017 as part of the city’s 394th Foundation Day Anniversary celebration.

Dr. Arnaldo Antonio, VCDDRMO head, emphasized the need of the community to be informed and prepared in case of disasters. “The local government ensures the safety and security of every individual, reason why we continuously conduct activities that will educate them more about disaster preparedness and risk management.” 

He added that the expo is also a reminder of the Yolanda tragedy that happened exactly four years ago. “Yolanda is an eye-opener for all of us. We are reminded of our advocacies and the need to inform our people about survival and disaster preparedness skills”, Antonio said. 

Other responding agencies such as the Philippine National Police-Valenzuela, Bureau of Fire Protection-Valenzuela, City Social Welfare and Development Office, and some volunteer groups and disaster equipment suppliers were also present in the three-day expo as exhibitors and speakers. 

The three-day event showcased survival technology, gear and preparation equipment, and tools and accessories. The expo has also been a learning venue for families and communities on how to prepare not only for natural disasters but also for political upheavals, public disorders, crime and home invasions, and more. 

Experts in the field of disaster preparedness rescue and climate change also conduct free seminars and demonstrations for the public. Dr. Ted Esguerra of the Wilderness Search and Rescue Philippines talks about the Readiness in times of Emergencies and Disaster. Seminars about self-defense, survival, disaster preparedness, urban gardening, vermicomposting, and climate change were also conducted. 

Prior to the Survival Expo, the local government recently installed sirens as early warning system devices. It is strategically placed in eleven (11) high-risk areas for flooding, fire and earthquake. These equipment give people information and warn them to prepare for flooding and evacuation. “We are in the process of acquiring more sirens to be installed in more barangays in the city. This is to augment our resources apart from the HAZMAT and ambulances that we currently have”, Antonio said.