In preparation for the University-wide Earthquake Drill on October 16, 2025, and in observance of the International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction (October 13), Wesleyan University-Philippines (WUP), in partnership with the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) – Cabanatuan City, conducted an orientation on earthquake response for academic and administrative officials on October 14 at the WESPRESSO Conference Room, Cushman Campus.

During the session, BFP representatives shared information and insights on conducting earthquake drills. They also inquired about the University’s readiness to respond to emergencies and disasters.

In response, the Crisis Management Committee (CMC), through Mr. Renato Salvador (CMC Chair) and Dr. Abraham A. Pascua (CMC Vice Chair), presented the University’s crisis management organization, procedures, and preparations for earthquakes and other crises.

A simple demonstration of the proper “Duck, Cover, and Hold” technique was conducted by BFP personnel. Participants were reminded to respond immediately during an earthquake by:

● Duck: Take a kneeling position (with one knee) for easier mobility.
● Cover: Protect your head with a bag, book, or your hands while maintaining awareness of your surroundings, or, if possible, take cover under a sturdy table.
● Hold: Hold on to something sturdy to stabilize yourself and prevent injury.
● After the shaking, participants should calmly evacuate, proceed to the designated assembly area, conduct a head count, and prepare a report.

Each office was encouraged to prepare an evacuation plan and conduct an orientation for their personnel and students on what to do in case of a crisis.
The orientation also emphasized that the formulation of a comprehensive disaster management plan, coupled with regular drills, contributes to the institution’s overall disaster resilience.

According to Mr. Salvador, this initiative is part of the CMC’s continuous efforts to build a culture of disaster and crisis readiness and resilience within the university community.

WUP was recently included in the World University Rankings for Innovation (WURI) 2025 for Crisis Management, recognizing the university’s proactive measures in ensuring safety and preparedness.

On September 24-26, 2025, Dr. Pascua was among the university officials who attended the WURI Global Conference in Busan, South Korea, where he presented the WUP’s Crisis Management Program.

This initiative would support the attainment of SDG 4: Quality Education, SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions, and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals.

by Ayumi San Cai Valerio
Photos by John Carlo Dauz and Sean Rhandall Cornes