The Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) kicked off the First Quarter National Simultaneous Earthquake Drill (NSED) of 2025 with a fresh twist: female employees took the helm, steering the initiative toward a new standard in disaster preparedness. Held this week, the drill carried the theme “Tandaan, Ligatas ang Bayan Kung Handa ang Mamamayan! BAWAT SEGUNDO MAHALAGA!“—a rallying cry emphasizing the critical role of readiness in safeguarding communities.
Coinciding with International Women’s Month, this year’s MGB drill put the spotlight on women in leadership roles. The MGB’s female staff shaped the exercise, ensuring that every individual understood their role in an emergency.
The drill itself was a hands-on demonstration of proactive safety measures, designed to equip Filipinos with the skills needed to act swiftly when every second counts. Experts note that disaster education, like the kind showcased in the NSED, can significantly reduce a community’s vulnerability to earthquakes and other crises. By placing women at the forefront, the MGB highlighted a practical truth: diverse leadership fosters clearer communication and broader participation in emergency planning.
As the Philippines braces for future drills under the “Bagong Pilipinas” framework, the MGB’s efforts signal a growing recognition that empowering varied voices can transform safety culture nationwide.
