USM holds DRRM Course for students and employees

The University of Southern Mindanao (USM), in collaboration with the Province of Cotabato, conducted an introductory course on Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (DRRM) to its students and employees on March 08, 2024, at the USM, Skyroom, USM, Kabacan, Cotabato.

Government agencies including the Office of Civil Defense Region XII (OCD XII), and the Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council XII (RDRRMC XII) led the discussion.

Throughout the course, expert lecturers facilitated the topics on the Philippine DRRM system, Rain-induced Landslides and Sinkholes, Hydrometeorological Hazards, Geological Hazards, Fire Prevention and Safety Tips, First Aid and Safety Tips, Organizing Disaster Control Groups, and Using Incident Command System., and DRRM application.

In an interview, Ms. Shiela Marginado-Hallig, one of the lecturers in the session, expressed that USM was recommended by the Province of Cotabato due to its large student population and existing disaster control group. Meanwhile, Zyke Addrianne S. Muyco, the Vice President of the University Student Government (USG), emphasized the significance of the course, particularly in the student government’s newly established Department of Risk Reduction and Management. Lastly, Dr. Jomar Esto, one of the faculty members who attended the activity, stressed the significance being ready, noting that unexpected hazards require constant preparation to minimize potential problems.

The introductory course is just the start of ensuring the preparedness of USM, hence, the Province of Cotabato reassures its support for another session and trainings on DRRM in the university.