More than 500 school principals and division chiefs across Pampanga gathered on Tuesday, October 28, for the Youth Summit on Strengthening School Leadership in Disaster Preparedness and Community Wellness —a provincewide effort to equip education leaders with the skills to champion safety, resilience, and mental well-being in schools.
The summit, organized by the Provincial Government of Pampanga under the leadership of Governor Lilia “Nanay” Pineda, served as a vital platform for sharing best practices in disaster response and promoting wellness-centered education management.
Governor Pineda underscored that preparedness begins with discipline and awareness. “When we prepare our schools, we protect our children. And when we protect our children, we safeguard the future of Pampanga,” she said.
Strengthening Disaster Readiness
Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO) Chief Janica Yambao led discussions on practical disaster preparedness measures for earthquakes, fires, typhoons, and flooding. She also briefed participants on the implementation of DepEd Order No. 22, s. 2024, which outlines class suspension protocols during weather disturbances.
The provincial government continues to bolster school readiness by distributing early warning devices, emergency kits, and safety gear, alongside conducting regular facility inspections and emergency drills to ensure secure learning spaces.
Ensuring Campus Security
To enhance safety measures, the Pampanga Police Provincial Office (PPPO) headed by PCOL Eugene Marcelo conducted a briefing on responding to bomb threats and other school security incidents.
Marcelo emphasized the importance of remaining calm, coordinating immediately with authorities, and maintaining order to prevent panic during emergencies.
Prioritizing Mental Health and Wellness
Recognizing that preparedness extends beyond physical safety, the summit also placed a spotlight on mental health support in schools.
In collaboration with Dr. Monserrat Chichioco and Atty. Hannah Rosario, the provincial government introduced a biopsychosocial-spiritual framework designed to transform guidance offices into centers of care, compassion, and emotional support for students.
Through partnerships with the Department of Education (DepEd) and local health professionals, Pampanga’s provincial government remains committed to programs that nurture student wellness, health protection, and disaster readiness—upholding Governor Pineda’s vision of creating safe, resilient, and compassionate schools where every Kapampangan learner can thrive in body, mind, and spirit.
