CCCM team’s handling ability put to the test in a simulation

March 12, 2024

The city government CCCM team’s handling ability was tested during the 3-day Training on Camp Coordination and Camp Management (CCCM) – Internally Displaced Persons Protection, after actors and actresses were assigned to play as Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs), creating a chaotic and challenging simulation exercise.

The intense simulation provided the CCCM team with valuable insights and hands-on experience in managing real-life scenarios. The training, held on February 21-23, 2024 at Cinco Niñas, aims to improve their ability to deal with similar situations in the future, ensuring efficient and effective IDP and camp management during times of crisis.

Moreover, the exercise was designed to put the CCCM team’s preparedness and response capabilities to the test as they dealt with a large influx of IDPs seeking assistance. The actors and actresses portraying displaced people flocked to the evacuation site, resulting in an overwhelming situation, and interventions were lined up for evaluation.

Also, the exercise provided a realistic setting for the CCCM team to practice their crisis management skills, such as crowd control, communication, and resource allocation. It emphasized the importance of effective coordination and quick decision-making in handling such difficult situations.

The training was conducted by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) XII, with a focus on evacuation facility management. The DSWD XII resource persons shared their expertise on international disaster response standards, providing team members with the knowledge and skills needed to effectively operate evacuation sites.

The sessions included practical exercises and a simulation to help the team understand disaster preparedness and response. Participants learned how to set up effective communication systems, plan evacuation routes, manage critical supplies and services, and provide temporary shelter for those affected by disaster.

In his message, Mayor Eliordo U. Ogena’s representative, Mr. Bernard Taperla, emphasized the importance of the said training as part of the city’s preparation. According to him, by providing the LGU lead departments and workforce with a broader knowledge base and preparedness, the team is better able to provide efficient assistance and support to those who have been and will be affected by disaster.

The resource persons also shared their valuable experience and best practices for managing evacuation sites. They emphasized the importance of collaboration and coordination among various sectors and government agencies in order to ensure a timely and well-coordinated response during emergencies. Further, one of the challenges posed to the city government is its collaborative ability to seek assistance from both local and foreign sources to supplement the needs that cannot be met due to a lack of resources.

A functional exercise was included in the training to familiarize participants with reporting tools, referral systems, and action planning. Participants were taught the necessary tools and techniques for gathering data.

As a result of the training, the LGU will develop camp coordination and camp management plans to ensure that all requirements for managing evacuation centers are met and that basic service delivery is well coordinated.