LINGAYEN— For higher impact, the integration of disaster preparedness resources between the San Roque Power Corporation (SRPC) and the Provincial Disaster Coordinating Council (PDCC) is in the offing.

SRPC has proposed to integrate its emergency action plan (EAP) with the PDCC as disaster preparedness plan for efficiency and effectiveness in averting loss of lives and properties due to natural and man-made disasters.

This was discussed in a recent joint conference held at Capitol Resort Hotel attended by representatives of both parties and members of the local media.

Tom Valdez, SRPC senior vice president, said the San Roque Dam emergency action plan aims to educate and prepare the people for “emergency situations such as uncontrolled release of dam waters and dam breaks due to strong earthquakes.”

He said, however, that while a dam break is very remote as the San Roque dam could withstand any maximum intensity earthquake, preparedness will always be to the benefit of the communities.

The EAP, he said, identifies specific responsibilities and actions during dam emergency situations from the dam operator to emergency response agencies that include the Office of the Civil Defense, Philippine Atmospheric and Geo-Sciences Astronomical Administration, Office of the Governor, media and downstream municipalities.

Valdez said the SRPC plans to conduct AP drills involving members of the PDCC to achieve effective and synchronized disaster preparedness in the province.

Provincial Administrator Rafael Baraan, speaking in behalf of Gov. Amado Espino Jr. as chairman of the PDCC, described SRPC’s proposal as timely since the region suffers devastation from several super typhoons annually.

On the other hand, PNP Provincial Director Sr. Supt. Isagani Nerez, vice chairman of the PDCC, said the joint meeting of the SRPC and PDCC opened an opportunity to rejuvenate and energize the province’s disaster management team.

“Theory and practice must come together in order for us to respond effectively to our constituents during natural and man-made disasters,” he stressed.

The San Roque Multi-Purpose Project, which generates 345 megawatts for the Luzon grid, stands 200 meters with a crest length in its embankment of 1.2 kilometers along the Agno River spanning across the municipalities of San Manuel and San Nicolas. It is the 12th tallest in the world and 2nd tallest dam in Asia.-LM

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