The Department of the Interior and Local Government–National Capital Region (DILG-NCR) joined the 3rd Quarter Nationwide Simultaneous Earthquake Drill (NSED) held at the Meralco Operating Center in Pasig City, reaffirming its commitment to strengthening disaster preparedness, inter-agency coordination, and local government resilience across Metro Manila.

The full-scale exercise, spearheaded by the Office of Civil Defense–National Capital Region (OCD-NCR), designated Meralco as the regional pilot area for NCR and simulated a magnitude 7.2 earthquake generated by movement of the West Valley Fault. The exercise tested evacuation procedures, emergency response capabilities, coordination mechanisms, continuity of operations, and the restoration of critical services following a major disaster. 

Representing DILG-NCR, Assistant Regional Director Atty. Ana Lyn R. Baltazar-Cortez, CESO IV, delivered a message of support on behalf of Regional Director Maria Lourdes L. Agustin, CESO III, emphasizing that earthquake preparedness in Metro Manila requires collective action among government agencies, local government units (LGUs), private-sector partners, communities, and emergency responders.

Atty. Baltazar-Cortez stressed that the impact of a major earthquake would not be confined within administrative boundaries, as disruptions to interconnected infrastructure and essential services would require immediate and coordinated action among multiple institutions.

DILG-NCR also recognized the critical role of Meralco and other utility providers in disaster response. The Department noted that the timely and safe restoration of electricity directly affects the continuity of health services, communications, water supply, transportation, emergency operations, and other essential public services. 

The exercise likewise provided an opportunity to assess the readiness of Meralco’s Emergency Preparedness and Response Team and operational crews, as well as coordination with internal and external partners in mobilizing resources and supporting the recovery of critical operations. DILG-NCR was also invited to participate in the exercise evaluation, particularly in assessing the community evacuation component of the full-scale drill.

For DILG-NCR, participation in the NSED forms part of its continuing efforts to work with Metro Manila LGUs in strengthening local disaster preparedness and resilience. The Department continues to advocate for functional local disaster risk reduction and management mechanisms, capable personnel, clear coordination arrangements, and preparedness plans that can be immediately activated during emergencies.

DILG-NCR expressed its appreciation to OCD-NCR, Meralco, Metro Manila LGUs, partner agencies, emergency responders, volunteers, and participating communities for their continued commitment to disaster preparedness.

The Department reiterated that it will continue supporting initiatives that advance a culture of preparedness, shared responsibility, and collective action toward a safer and more resilient National Capital Region.