MMDA proposes 5-hour drill in Metro Manila

MMDA Chairman Francis Tolentino during the MMFF 2014 Selection and Announcement of Official Entries at Seda Hotel, Bonifacio Global City (Facebook photo)

MANILA – The Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA) is proposing a five-hour earthquake drill to simulate the effects of a huge earthquake.

MMDA Chair Francis Tolentino on Monday said that he has drafted an executive order to be approved by the President.

The said order will call for an earthquake simulation which will happen on or before the end of July from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m.

“I just submitted a draft executive order for an earthquake drill which should happen before the end of July this year. It calls for a simultaneous experience… It will have a daytime and a nighttime scenario,” Tolentino said.

During the drill, all electricity, water and communication services will be shutdown.

“The purpose is to acquaint the citizens of Metro Manila….Hindi ito para takutin (ang tao) kundi para paghandaan (ang malakas na lindol),” he added.

(This is not intended to scare them but to prepare for the big earthquake.)

While some are concerned about the impact of the shutdown on businesses in Metro Manila, Tolentino explained that the survival of residents should still be the priority.

“Ang kita, puwedeng mabawi, ang buhay hindi na,” Tolentino said.

(You can regain profits but not your life.)