PSA Negros Occidental joins nationwide earthquake drill

BACOLOD CITY — The Philippine Statistics Authority Negros Occidental Provincial Statistical Office joined the third-quarter 2026 Nationwide Simultaneous Earthquake Drill on Sept. 10, reinforcing emergency procedures for employees and members of the public using its services.

The exercise was aimed at strengthening disaster preparedness and promoting a culture of safety among PSA personnel and clients by giving participants practical experience in responding to an earthquake and evacuating the office safely.

Employees joined clients at the Civil Registration Service Outlet and National ID registration area in carrying out the “Duck, Cover, and Hold” procedure before proceeding to designated assembly areas in an organized and orderly manner.

The activity allowed employees and clients to practice established safety measures and become more familiar with evacuation procedures that would be needed during an actual earthquake.

The quarterly drill also served as a practical test of the office’s emergency response protocols.

PSA Negros Occidental said the exercise helped reinforce coordination, communication, evacuation procedures, and other safety measures considered essential to an effective response during an earthquake.

The agency said regular participation in earthquake drills helps improve awareness and preparedness among both its workforce and the public.

The drills are particularly important in government service offices where employees may need to assist clients while also carrying out emergency procedures.

PSA Negros Occidental said its continued participation in the Nationwide Simultaneous Earthquake Drill and other disaster preparedness initiatives forms part of its commitment to promoting resilience among employees and the communities it serves.

The office said the effort also supports its goal of maintaining a safe workplace and helping communities become better prepared to respond to emergencies and disasters.