“This training is very timely. We are preparing the community to help their neighbors [during disaster],” said CNMI Homeland Security Citizens Corps program manager Joey Dela Cruz in an interview with the Variety.
Dela Cruz said the CNMI invited the Guam experts and funded the training that opened at the Saipan World Resort yesterday.
The team from Guam Homeland Security, Office of Civil Defense is composed of Kenny Artero, Sgt. James Buccat Louis Ramsey and Jimmy Taitague.
About 40 participants are underging training on disaster preparedness, fire safety, disaster medical operations, light search and rescue operations, disaster psychology and anti-terrorism.
“The training prepares the community or volunteers to provide critical support before the first responders arrive,” Dela Cruz said.
He said the participants will then serve as trainers for their agencies.
Diocesan Youth Ministry Director Fr. Nonoy Recaido, one of the participants, lauded the training and urged more such sessions for the community.
He also underscored the need to prepare individuals for disaster management and emergencies, especially during large celebrations when first responders may be stalled by the crowd as they make their way to the victims.
“Churchgoers are always asking help for priest during emergencies [at churches],” Recaido said.
