Contingency Planning for the Big One: Catholic Church Prepares for Earthquake Response in Greater Metro Manila
On June 13, 2024, the Catholic Church hosted a crucial event titled "Contingency Planning for the Big One" at the St Benedict Building in Quiapo Church, Manila. This all-day session aimed to prepare a comprehensive response plan for a major earthquake, known as "The Big One," that could strike Greater Metro Manila.
The main objective was to create a detailed Written Operational Plan that outlined the Church's strategy for disaster response. This plan aligned with government protocols to ensure a coordinated effort. Later, a Tactical Plan would provide specific steps to implement the strategies.
Key outcomes expected from this planning included a coordinated response effort between the Church and government agencies, efficient and quick mobilization of resources and personnel, and a unified approach to disaster management.
Fifty participants, including priests and lay leaders from various dioceses and organizations, attended. These included representatives from the Archdioceses and Dioceses of Lipa, Imus, San Pablo, Lucena, Antipolo, Gumaca, Mindoro, Marinduque, Romblon, Taytay Vicariate, Manila, Pasig, Parañaque, Cubao, Caloocan, Novaliches, and Malolos, as well as Caritas Philippines.
This event was a vital step in ensuring the Catholic Church is ready to provide effective and timely support during a major earthquake, working closely with government efforts to help affected communities.