The Department of the Interior and Local Government – National Capital Region (DILG-NCR) conducted a two-day Basic Life Support (BLS) and First Aid Training for its Regional and Field Personnel on September 16–17, 2026, at the Social Hall of the Sugar Regulatory Administration.

The activity was conducted in partnership with the Philippine Red Cross (PRC) and facilitated by PRC Trainers/Instructors Mr. Kamal A. Gunawardana and Mr. Mark Klervin A. Leung. The training aimed to enhance the capacity of DILG-NCR personnel to provide immediate and appropriate assistance during medical emergencies and other situations requiring basic life-saving interventions.

In her opening remarks, DILG-NCR Regional Director Maria Lourdes L. Agustin, CESO III, emphasized the importance of equipping public servants with practical knowledge and skills that can make a difference during emergency situations.

“Through this Basic Life Support training, we are not only gaining knowledge. We are developing practical skills, building confidence, and preparing ourselves to respond appropriately when a life may depend on immediate action,” Regional Director Agustin said.

She further underscored that preparedness is an essential component of public service and encouraged the participants to share and apply the knowledge and skills they would gain beyond the confines of the training venue.

“As public servants, preparedness is an important part of our commitment to the people and communities we serve. The knowledge and skills we gain here today should not remain within this training room. We can bring them home, share them with our families and colleagues, and apply them whenever the need arises,” she added.

The two-day training provided participants with comprehensive instruction on basic first aid and emergency response, beginning with an Introduction to First Aid, which covered the definition and objectives of first aid, fundamental principles, identification of health risks and hazards, and the proper removal of used protective gloves.

The Emergency Action Principles module covered scene size-up, primary and secondary assessment, activation of medical assistance, the log-roll technique, opening of the airway, the Look, Listen, and Feel (L.L.F.) approach, the H.A.I.N.E.S. recovery position, and head-to-toe examination.

Participants were also trained in responding to Cardiac Emergencies, including heart attack and cardiac arrest, foreign body airway obstruction, Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR), and the proper use of an Automated External Defibrillator (AED). The training further covered the recognition and initial management of Common Emergencies, including choking, bleeding and wounds, burns, head and spine injuries, dislocations and fractures, seizures, fainting, and heat-related emergencies. Participants were likewise introduced to proper bandaging techniques, loading and securing a patient to a backboard, and appropriate splinting techniques.

Under Special Situations, participants learned about emergency preparedness and evacuation. The Lifting and Moving component, meanwhile, covered emergency and non-emergency movement, lifting and carrying guidelines, and appropriate techniques for safely moving individuals in different situations.

An evaluation was conducted at the conclusion of the training to assess the participants’ understanding and application of the concepts and skills discussed throughout the two-day activity.

During the closing program, Edgar A. Pacaño Jr., CPA, MPA, Chief Administrative Officer of the Finance and Administrative Division expressed his appreciation to the trainers, facilitators, partner agencies, organizers, and participants for their valuable contributions to the successful conduct of the activity. Most importantly, Division Chief Pacaño recognized the commitment of the participants, emphasizing that their attendance and active participation reflected their willingness to develop skills that may prove critical during emergency situations. He emphasized that the knowledge and skills gained from the training carry a responsibility that extends beyond the workplace, as participants may find themselves in situations where their ability to respond appropriately could help protect or save a life.

The conduct of the Basic Life Support and First Aid Training forms part of DILG-NCR’s continuing efforts to strengthen workplace preparedness and promote the safety and welfare of its personnel. It likewise supports applicable occupational safety and health requirements concerning first aid, emergency response, and continuing safety training.

Through this initiative, DILG-NCR further strengthens the readiness of its Regional and Field Personnel to respond effectively and responsibly in situations where immediate action may be necessary. More importantly, the activity reinforces the principle that preparedness is an integral part of public service. By developing life-saving competencies among its personnel, DILG-NCR contributes to a safer workplace and a more resilient workforce capable of extending appropriate assistance to colleagues, families, and communities when circumstances call for it.

The successful completion of the two-day training marks another step in DILG-NCR’s continuing commitment to personnel development, workplace safety, emergency preparedness, and responsive public service.