Ayala Foundation conducts “Maging Handa” disaster training in Ilocos Norte

Ayala Foundation’s Disasters Education Program in partnership with the Provincial Government of Ilocos Norte conducted the “Maging Handa: Upskilling Disaster Responders” training to equip disaster responders with necessary skills on April 29, at the Ilocos Norte Centennial Arena. 

The two-day training was attended by different disaster responding agencies namely the Bureau of Fire Protection, the City/Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Councils, and the Philippine National Police, which play vital roles in times of disasters. 

Vice Governor Cecilia Araneta Marcos expressed her appreciation to the Ayala Foundation for their program that improves the skills of disaster responders and highlighted the importance of the training in order to be prepared during disasters. 

“Always have the mindset of ‘always being prepared’ so that when disaster happens, you already know what to do and you are here to also be able to share everything that you have learned to your community so that there is a ripple effect to all because we do not want disasters to happen but we always want to be prepared”, the Vice Governor said.

Moreover, Ms. Cel Rosales Amores, the foundation’s Senior Director for Corporate Communications, emphasized the impact of disasters on the mental well-being of Ilokanos, stating “Our training aims to address mental health precautions essential for navigating such challenges during disasters, equipping participants with the necessary tools to support their communities effectively.”

Meanwhile, Mrs. Divina J. Sevilla, Psychological First Aider of the Provincial Government expressed her gratitude toward the Ayala Foundation for spearheading the training initiative.

"This training will significantly enhance our ability to assist our fellow kakalian during times of disaster, as they look to us for guidance given our expertise in this area. Through this training, we have acquired invaluable insights on how to appropriately manage our communities' needs," Mrs. Sevilla remarked. 

In line with the shared goal of PGIN to increase the knowledge of disaster responders, the training also aligns with several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). These include SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-Being), SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 13 (Climate Action), SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions), and SDG 17 (Partnership for the Goals)