Pasig Rescue Team, PDRRMC Conducts Training to Ilocos Norte Resiliency Staff for New Extrication Device

The Provincial Government of Ilocos Norte (PGIN) through the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (PDRRMC) conducted a two-day training for use and maintenance of the province’s newly acquired extrication device last July 25-26, 2018.

PGIN employees supporting disaster and relief operations of PDRRMC, together with officers of the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), the General Services Office (GSO), Philippine National Police (PNP), Provincial Engineering Office (PEO), Provincial Security Group (PSG), and Dr. Jason Ranada of Ranada General Hospital, attended the seminar.

Members of the Pasig City Search and Rescue team, a national group of search-and-rescue team, served as speakers. The first day featured a lecture and familiarization of the extrication device. A demonstration of the proper usage and maintenance of the device was done the next day at the PEO.

An extrication device is a rescue tool used to release victims of vehicular traffic accidents (VTA). It is capable of bending and cutting metal.

Mr. Marcel Tabije, local disaster risk reduction management officer III of the PDRRMC, said that the newly-purchased extrication device, which was approved by Governor Imee R. Marcos, has its own unique features.

“Alam naman natin na tourist hub ng Luzon ang Ilocos Norte kaya naman maraming turista ang dumarayo dito. Hindi naman natin gustong may mangyaring masama, pero in case lang na may vehicular accidents, pag may naipit sa loob ng sasakyan, nandito itong equipment at may mga personnel tayong handang rumesponde,” he stated.

Mr. Romel Antinero, officer in charge of the Pasig City Rescue Team, in his lecture reminded the trainees to also mind their own safety by wearing different protective gears before responding to emergency situations.

The extrication device will be under the care of the PDRRMC.