The Mabalacat City Government headed by Mayor Crisostomo Garbo held the annual Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (DRRM) Quiz Bee, aptly themed “BeeDA ang HANDA.” The event aimed to engage elementary students in learning about disaster preparedness while strengthening a competitive yet fun environment.
The CDRRMO headed by Jeffrey Santos said that the quiz bee saw participation from various schools, with the hope of letting the young minds understand crucial aspects of disaster management. Sta. Maria Elementary School emerged victorious, clinching the first place with a cash prize of 10,000 pesos and gold medals. The team, coached by Rea F. Manalang, consisted of talented students Najra Nicolai Evangelista, Divine Grace Santos, and Dhastin Khurt Barrios.
Don Bosco Academy secured the second position, earning 7,000 pesos and silver medals. Under the guidance of Coach Editha Celine Rivera, the team comprised Thaddeus Josef M. Manahan, Jov Mikhail B. Cacananta, and Sebastian Alonzo De Vera. Meanwhile, the third place went to Doña Asuncion Lee Integrated School (DALIS), which took home 4,000 pesos and bronze medals. Coach Danny Line C. Tolentino led his team of Alpha Nigell Mentes, Lorie Belle Gantan, and Charee Keith Gutierrez to a commendable finish.
Mayor Crisostomo Cris Garbo reiterated the importance of such initiatives through the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO). He stated, “Our goals are clear: to encourage elementary students to expand their knowledge in Disaster Risk Reduction and Management while having fun. We aim to promote greater interest in DRRM and inspire independent study in this vital field.”
The event also served as a platform to gauge the awareness of elementary students in DRRM, ensuring that the next generation is well-equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to face potential disasters.
The Mabalacat CDRRMO thanked all the participants, including Dungan Elementary School, Sapang Biabas Resettlement Elementary School, Mawaque Resettlement Elementary School, Dau Homesite Elementary School, Marcos Elementary School, San Joaquin Elementary School, Mary Help of Christian School, Mabalacat Elementary School, School of the Infant Jesus, Paralayunan Elementary School, Macapagal Village Elementary School, and Cacutud Elementary School.
The success of the “BeeDA ang HANDA” Quiz Bee not only highlighted the academic prowess of Mabalacat City’s youth but also reinforced the city’s commitment to disaster preparedness.