Coordinate holiday events with disaster office, Agusan Sur mayor asks organizers

The municipal hall of San Francisco, Agusan del Sur, is now adorned with sparkling Christmas lights, creating a festive ambiance .

SAN FRANCISCO, Agusan del Sur — To ensure the safety of revelers during the Yuletide holiday, Mayor Grace Carmel Paredes-Bravo of this town has mandated organizers to notify the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO) so that local responders are alerted and prepared in case something goes wrong.

Under Executive Order No. 80 series of 2023, Bravo ordered that the notice be given to the MDRRMO three days prior to a scheduled event, especially if this would involve the attendance of more than 100 people.

This precautionary measure aims to prevent chaotic situations, especially in the aftermath of unforeseen events, such as the magnitude 7.4 earthquake on Dec. 2, which resulted in a stampede at the municipal gym where many were hurt.

At that time, the gym was filled with students for a school event.

Organizers must also disclose the mix of people expected to attend such as whether there are adults and children, the duration of an event, and their plan for evacuation in case there is an emergency situation.

A designated event leader, responsible for coordinating with the MDRRMO and other relevant offices during evacuation or rescue efforts, should also be named.

The event leader is expected to promptly inform the MDRRMO, the local police station, and the Bureau of Fire Protection through the most accessible means, either by calling hotline numbers or reporting in person.

Event leaders are further advised to communicate to attendees the importance of remaining calm and adhering to the evacuation plan, to ensure their safety until they are gathered in a secure location.