Davao City on Saturday conducted its 3rd River-Wide Flood Simulation Exercise (SIMEX), organized by the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO) in Sandawa, Davao City to test the city’s preparedness for large-scale flooding.
Rodrigo C. Bustillo, head of CDRRMO’s Operations and Warning Division, said the drill was designed to strengthen inter-agency coordination, enhance emergency response capabilities, and ensure readiness in case of major flooding incidents in riverine communities.
The large-scale exercise engaged barangays along the Davao River, with simulations aimed at improving community-level readiness and coordination during emergencies.
The drill was participated by key offices and agencies joined the drill, including the City Engineer’s Office, City Health Office, City Social Welfare and Development Office, City Transport and Traffic Management Office (CTTMO), Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), Philippine Coast Guard, Task Force Davao, Davao City Police Office (DCPO), and utility providers such as the Davao City Water District (DCWD) and Davao Light and Power Company.
The designated evacuation sites were also identified: Mandug Gym for Brgy. Mandug; Uyanguren Gym and Juliville Gym for Brgy. Tigatto; Escoda Gym for Brgy. Ma-a; El Rio Phase 1 Gym for Brgy. 19-B; San Rafael Gym for Brgy. 10-A; Marfori Gym and DOMSAT Gym for Brgy. 9-A; Upper Madapo Purok 9-A for Brgy. 8-A; Brgy. 5-A Gym for Brgy. 5-A; GKK Immaculate Concepcion Chapel for Matina Crossing; and SIR Phase 1 and 2 Gyms for Brgy. Bucana.
“This simulation exercise is a vital step in enhancing our rescue capabilities and strengthening both preventive and reactive measures against disasters, including incidents like Asik-asik flooding and other river-related emergencies,” said Col. Mannan Muarip, DCPO acting city director.
Muarip added that the activity gave DCPO personnel the opportunity to test coordination, sharpen readiness, and build trust across agencies and communities.
He also thanked participating institutions for their collaboration, stressing that collective efforts bring Davao City closer to becoming a safer and more resilient community.
