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The recent tremors remind us how unpredictable and dangerous earthquakes can be. In just seconds, they can cause massive destruction, leaving families vulnerable. Preparedness and presence of mind are key to surviving and protecting lives. Proud Bisaya Bai compiled Before, During, and After Earthquake Reminders—along with essential Emergency Hotlines—to guide communities through these natural disasters.
Before an Earthquake
- Know the Risks
- Identify if your area is near fault lines or landslide-prone.
- Familiarize yourself with evacuation routes.
- Prepare an Emergency Kit
- Include flashlight, batteries, drinking water, canned food, first aid kit, whistle, face masks, power banks, medicines, and waterproofed important documents.
- Secure Your Home
- Fasten shelves, cabinets, and heavy objects to walls.
- Place breakables on lower shelves.
- Identify safe spots indoors (under a sturdy table, near interior walls).
- Family Safety Plan
- Conduct earthquake drills with your household.
- Assign a meeting point in case you get separated.
During an Earthquake
- Drop, Cover, and Hold On: Protect your head and neck. Stay under sturdy furniture or beside strong interior walls.
- Stay Indoors: Do not rush outside while the ground is shaking. Stay away from windows, mirrors, and heavy objects that may fall.
- If Outside: Move to open areas away from buildings, trees, power lines, or anything that could collapse.
- If Driving: Pull over safely and stay inside the vehicle until shaking stops.
- Remain Calm: Panic can cause more harm.
After an Earthquake
- Check for Injuries and Hazards – Give first aid if necessary and watch for gas leaks, fires, and damaged structures.
- Expect Aftershocks – Stay alert and be ready to evacuate again if needed.
- Do Not Use Elevators – Use stairs when leaving buildings.
- Listen for Updates – Follow advisories from authorities and local disaster councils.
- Help Your Community – Assist neighbors, especially the elderly, children, and persons with disabilities.
Emergency Hotlines
Disaster Response & Rescue
- Cebu City DRRMO: (032) 262-1424 / 0917-722-3211
- Provincial DRRMO: (032) 888-2328 / 0917-301-8573
- ERUF: (032) 254-6333 / 0917-822-4911
Police / Law Enforcement
- PNP Emergency Hotline: 117 or 911
- Cebu City Police: (032) 256-2195
- Cebu Provincial Police: (032) 255-0034
Medical & Health Emergencies
- Cebu City Medical Center: (032) 255-7141
- Vicente Sotto Memorial Medical Center: (032) 253-9891
- Chong Hua Hospital: (032) 255-8000
- Perpetual Succour Hospital: (032) 233-8620
- Red Cross Cebu: (032) 253-4611 or 143
Utilities
- VECO: 230-8326 / 1622-8436
- MCWD: 254-8434 / 254-5896
Other Contacts
- DILG Region 7: (032) 253-5474
- DSWD Region 7: (032) 233-2656
- PAGASA Mactan (Earthquake & Weather Monitoring): (032) 340-4147
📌 Save these numbers in your phone, post them at home, and share them with family and neighbors.
🐾 PET SAFETY REMINDER 🐾
When disaster strikes, our pets should never be left behind. Earthquakes can disorient and endanger them too.
⚠️ Unleash to Save Lives:
- 🐶🐱 Unleash your pets during emergencies—they can escape falling debris or flooding better when free.
- Keep them in a safe, secure, and dry place.
- Prepare food, clean water, and supplies for them in your emergency kit.
- If you evacuate, take them with you. Never leave them tied or locked up.
They are not just animals—they are family. In times of crisis, their survival depends on you.
👉 Be earthquake-ready. Protect your home, your family, your community—and your pets.
