Natural disasters
DESPITE the many wonders of “modern technology,” scientists are still unable to predict the occurrence of powerful and deadly natural disasters.
Like the major earthquake that struck the main island of Honshu in Japan on New Year’s Day, killing many people and causing widespread destruction.
The 7.5-magnitude tremor, which devastated the Ishikawa prefecture on the island, triggered one-meter high tsunami waves and toppled buildings.
In the Philippines, there are very good lessons that can be learned from the powerful earthquake in Japan.
For one, it is urgent on concerned government authorities to update the country’s existing disaster preparedness and disaster resilience programs.
For another, let’s equip government and even privately-owned hospitals with state-of-the-art life-saving equipment and facilities.
“Dapat laging nakahanda ang mga ospital upang tugunan ang mga pangangailangan ng mga taong masasaktan kapag may lindol o anumang natural disaster,” a social worker said.
It is certainly heartening to note that the government is committed to ensure the health, safety and welfare of the people during national emergencies.
What is needed is for the public to support government programs and initiatives aimed at addressing problems posed by natural calamities.
However, it is only just and right for the people, including the ordinary citizens, “na sumunod sa mga ipinag-uutos ng gobyerno tuwing may kalamidad.”
