In accordance with its commitment to safety and disaster preparedness, Saint Louis University (SLU), through the Campus Planning, Maintenance, and Security Department (CPMSD), led the conduct of the First Quarter Nationwide Simultaneous Earthquake Drill (NSED) 2026 on 12 March 2026 held in various SLU campuses.
Following the mandate of the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC), the 30-second Emergency Siren rang at 3:00 p.m., signaling the start of the drill and the performance of the “Duck, Cover and Hold” protocol.
After the 30-second emergency horn came the next three long bells, signifying the evacuation process. During this process, the participants were instructed to stay calm until the end. They grabbed available objects to protect their heads and went to their respective evacuation areas. Thereafter, a headcount was conducted for each room to determine whether there are missing persons and to assess their safety.
Fr. Jose Burgos Administrative Center
SLU Maryheights Campus
SLU Sunflower Halfway Home for Boys
Brigade commanders timed their respective Area of Responsibility (AOR) on the evacuation process and reported immediately to the nearest Security Guard on duty. They ensured that the evacuation process was done swiftly and properly.
Pursuant to Rule 6, Section 7, of the Implementing Rules and Regulations of Republic Act (RA) No. 10121, also known as the Philippine Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Act of 2010 (DRRM Act), the Local Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office encourages the public to participate in the quarterly NSED as part of a nationwide push to strengthen public preparedness.
SLU’s commitment to maintaining and promoting the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs) was reaffirmed through the University’s participation in the NSED, enhancing earthquake preparedness and response. Quality Education (SDG 4) and Sustainable Communities (SDG 11) were demonstrated through the Louisian community’s adherence to proper procedures during earthquakes. Finally, Partnership for the Goals (SDG 17) was reflected in the collaboration among the different offices and adherence to the NDRRMC memorandum. (Article by Guenne Gabriel Patano, UIO Intern | Photos by Kassandra Mae Lucero and Kemm Mitchell Olarte, UIO Interns; School of Accountancy, Management, Computing, and Information Studies (SAMCIS); SLU Sunflower Halfway Home for Boys)
SLU Main Campus
