Earthquake Drill Conducted at UP Manila

November 11, 2025

Text and Photos by Charmaine Lingdas

An Emergency Response Team (ERT) member observes the flow of the earthquake drill and monitors participants gathered at the Oblation Plaza of the University of the Philippines – Philippine General Hospital during the Nationwide Simultaneous Earthquake Drill on Nov. 6, 2025.

The University of the Philippines Manila took part in the Nationwide Simultaneous Earthquake Drill (NSED) on Nov. 6, 2025, at 9:00 AM, joining other institutions across the country to help improve earthquake preparedness and safety.

The drill was designed to ensure that participants could respond effectively in the event of a real earthquake. Faculty, staff, students, and Philippine General Hospital personnel followed standard emergency procedures, such as opening doors and performing the Duck, Cover, and Hold (DCH) during the first 15 seconds of simulated shaking and then evacuating to their assigned areas. Afterward, a communication drill took place, during which Emergency Response Teams, including Building Marshals, College Incident Commanders, Cluster Commanders, Deputy Incident Commanders, and Incident Commanders, provided updates on headcounts and building conditions. Once all reports were collected, the Deputy Incident Commander or Incident Commander gave the stand-down order, and everyone returned to their posts.

At the Central Administration (CAD), the Emergency Response Team (ERT) implemented an efficient evacuation plan to ensure safety and order. According to the Central Administration Emergency Response Team (CAD ERT) Operations Head Jorel Manalo, “The CAD ERT decided to use the fire exits available in the Philippine General Hospital Compound Right Central Block and Left Central Block wings, except on the HRDO side because the third floor is still under construction.” The drill was co-facilitated by CAD ERT Safety Officer Nomar Bulalakaw.

“This measure was done to prevent a stampede at the center exit and to increase awareness among employees that alternative exits are available for use. Overall, the drill was successful because of the coordination of all the CAD ERT officers and marshals per office,” Manalo said.

The NSED serves as a reminder of the importance of readiness, cooperation, and vigilance in ensuring the safety of the UP Manila community in the face of potential natural disasters.