South Cotabato Equips 60 Schools with Rescue Gear for Faster Disaster Response

KORONADAL CITY — At least 60 public schools in South Cotabato received on Monday rescue equipment from the provincial government under a P7-million disaster preparedness program aimed at helping schools and barangays respond more quickly to earthquakes, accidents, and other emergencies. The rescue equipment was turned over during the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (PDRRMC) meeting at the provincial capitol. The program is part of the provincial government’s commitment to bolster the capacity of educational institutions and local communities in facing various calamities. “We want to ensure that our schools are equipped to handle emergencies effectively,” said a provincial official during the turnover. “This is not just about providing equipment; it’s about building a culture of preparedness.” The P7-million fund covers the procurement of specialized rescue tools, first-aid kits, and communication devices that will be distributed to the recipient schools. South Cotabato is prone to natural disasters such as earthquakes, typhoons, and landslides. The provincial government has been actively implementing measures to enhance disaster preparedness and response mechanisms across the province. The initiative is expected to significantly improve the immediate response time of schools during emergencies, potentially saving lives and minimizing damage. It also aims to foster stronger coordination between schools and the PDRRMC in disaster management efforts.