Sm Cares supports Emergency Preparedness Forum For Children & Youth With Disabilities

July 9,2018 at Hall 3 of the SMX Convention Center, MOA Complex, Pasay City - SM Cares, the Corporate Social Responsibility arm of SM Prime Holdings, once again hold an Emergency Preparedness Forum. 

This year's focus is on Children and Youth with Disabilities, between 10-30 years old. Persons with Disabilities, especially the young ones, are seen to be more disadvantaged due to their limitations on mobility and awareness.

The forum aims to provide substantial information about the reality of a potential earthquake; the scenario in Metro Manila, as well as making them better prepared for disasters and calamities. The attendees will be comprised of young people who are blind, deaf, with physical/orthopedic impairments, with Down syndrome. Autism, and those with rare disorders. 

There is estimated attendees of 1,000 people from different PWD organizations and learning institutions. 

Resource persons include Dr. Renato Solidum, Jr., Undersecretary for Disaster Risk Reduction of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), and Officer-in-C of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS), and Dr. Ted Esguerra, Operational Medicine Representative Ms. Lotta Sylwander will also be one of the guests in the forum. 

The program starts with the welcome remarks from Engr. Bien C. Mateo, SVP for Mall Operations
Director, SM Cares Program on Persons with Disabilities

Next speaker for this forum is Ms. Lotta Sylwander Country Representative, UNICEF Philippines

First Topic: "The Big One" in Metro Manila explained by Dr. Renato Solidum Jr. 
Undersecretary for Disaster Risk ReductionDepartment of Science & Technology (DOST), and
Officer-in-Chare, Philippine Institute of Volcanology & Seismology (PHIVOLCS)

Dr. Solidum discussed the possible scenario that may happen if the Big One hits Metro Manila. He also further explain the different intensity level of the earthquake and how strong is the effect to the surroundings or person that may be affected if this happens.

From his slides, he shows the past events of the earthquake and the effect of it on the infrastructure, houses, buildings, roads, etc.

Second Topic: Preparing for and Surviving an Earthquake

Dr. Ted Esguerra - Operational Medicine Instructor 

International Disaster Response Network

Dr. Ted teaches the audience how to prepare themselves and surviving during Earthquake especially if it happens to our fellow disabled persons. He demonstrated also the actual scenario of a wounded person and how he can apply the first aid to the affected area of the body.

He shares some slides also that provides ideas that can really help everyone in times of disaster.

ABOUT SM CARES 

SM Cares is the Corporate Social Responsibility arm of SM Prime Holdings. Inc. Its advocacies include Programs on Persons with Disabilities, Children and Youth, Women and Breastfeeding Mothers, Environment, Senior 

Citizens, and Overseas Filipino Workers (SM Global Pinoy). 

As a responsible mail developer, SM ensures that its CSR programs serve as a catalyst for positive change for the community that it serves. To know more about SM Cares, please visit www.smcares.com.ph, www.facebook.com/OfficialSMCares or email smcares@smprime.com