In a major step toward national disaster preparedness, healthcare frontliners and multisectoral partners launched on April 23-24, the country’s first medical-focused earthquake simulation drill, designed to prepare for a potential “Big One” scenario.
The event, titled “Frontline: Tripartite Simulation Drill for Disaster Risk Mitigation,” is a collaborative initiative led by the Philippine Medical Association (PMA), Asia Pacific Alliance for Disaster Management Philippines (A-PAD PH), and the Philippine Disaster Resilience Foundation (PDRF).
“This drill is more than a simulation—it’s a critical step in strengthening the skills and readiness of medical practitioners to deliver and manage emergency care during large-scale disasters,” said Dr. Hector Santos, President of PMA.
From Simulation to Strategy: A Model for Future Drills
Held at the PDRF Emergency Operations Center in Clark, the two-day exercise featured scenario-based tabletop discussions and live-action drills that tested emergency protocols, communication systems, and cross-sector coordination during a simulated magnitude 7.2 earthquake.
Amid growing threats from natural hazards and public health crises, the simulation aims to break down operational silos between sectors—ensuring that government agencies, private institutions, and international responders can work in concert during real-life emergencies.
“A crucial part of this initiative is interoperability,” said Gilbert Albero, President of A-PAD Philippines. “We need to practice how we coordinate and communicate with our partners for us to strengthen our partnerships in building safer communities.”
Tripartite Collaboration for Unified Disaster Preparedness
A highlight of the event was the ceremonial signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between PMA, A-PAD PH, and PDRF, signaling a year-long commitment to advancing joint disaster response efforts. The MOU outlines strategic collaborations on resource mobilization, volunteer training, community outreach, and health-focused resilience research.
“This simulation proves that when government agencies, medical associations, and private sector leaders come together, we can forge a response that is not only faster, but also smarter and more united,” said Butch Meily, PDRF President.
The simulation drill, hosted by the Clark Development Corporation, was participated in by the Philippine College of Emergency Medicine, Angeles City Medical Society, Philippine Emergency Medical Assistance Team–Luzon, UP Manila-DRRM-H Department of Health, Office of Civil Defense, and the Department of Foreign Affairs.
“We are laying the foundation for a future where our frontliners are not only reactive but ready—not only brave, but backed by a system that helps them succeed,” said Dr. Santos.
The tripartite drill is expected to serve as a model for future national and regional medical simulations, as the Philippines continues to strengthen its disaster preparedness and health emergency systems.
