DAVAO CITY — Mayor Inday Sara Duterte called on barangay officials to participate in the Southern Storm Drills, a series of anti-terror exercises that will be pilot-tested in the city this month.
“We particularly seek the participation of barangay officials because the simultaneous exercises will require a lockdown of the city and the members of our communities need to be informed,” Inday Sara said.
She also welcomed the security sector’s initiative to conduct the initial antiterror exercises in the city – as this will test inter-agency and community preparedness and will address weaknesses in the event of a terror attack and other emergencies.
The anti-terror drill, which will be also be replicated in other urban areas in the country, would simulate the response of both the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) in case of a terror attack. The Bureau of Fire Protection and the Office of Civil Defense are also set to participate in the drill.
“We all need to be prepared because the fight against terrorism and crime is the responsibility of everyone,” the mayor said. “The cooperation, support, and patience of Dabawenyos during the conduct of the exercises will strengthen our readiness and capability to ensure the safety of our city and our communities against the threats of terrorism and crime.”
The special focus areas for the Southern Storm Drills would be vital infrastructure and facilities in the city, including the Davao International Airport and coastal area – considered to be among the entry points to the city.
Mayor Inday stressed the importance of being prepared for any eventuality considering that the city had already experienced several violent incidents such as the bombing of Roxas Night Market. The New People’s Army also continued its operations in the hinterlands of the city despite the city government’s effort to reach out to them. (CIO/PNA)
