Last month, the U.S. Department of the Army’s National Guard, in collaboration with CNMI government agencies, including CUC, conducted full-scale exercises.
CUC water and wastewater division chief engineer Robert J. Lorenz and water and wastewater manager Mariano Iglecias said the training further developed the preparedness and awareness of CUC personnel.
“You always have to prepare yourself for any event and situation like terrorism,” Iglecias said.
The recent exercises tested the ability of CNMI, military and federal agencies in responding to emergencies involving weapons of mass destruction.
In the drill, Iglecias said they mobilized and activated engineers, laboratory and operational people, including CUC acting Executive Director Utu Abe Malae.
CUC acted appropriately, Iglecias added.
But, he added, there was some “communication lapses,” particularly when directly communicating with emergency responders.
“We have our own set of communication system but a unified communication system is much better in emergency csaes,” Iglecias said.
