A three-day Emergency Operations Center (EOC) Training Course began Tuesday at the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO) Operations Center in this town’s Barangay Suklayin.

The training, which runs until Thursday, aims to enhance the preparedness, coordination, and operational capabilities of the province’s first responders in managing various emergencies and disasters.

Engineer Amado Elson Egargue, PDRRMO chief, stressed the vital role of the training in disaster response.

“This training is not just a technical activity—it is a crucial step toward more efficient, faster, and effective response during emergencies. Your presence here is a testament to your dedication as frontliners in disaster preparedness,” Egargue told participants.

Governor Reynante Tolentino, in a message delivered by lawyer Lyonnel Aragon, highlighted the importance of such training programs as a priority of his administration.

Tolentino reaffirmed his support for initiatives that strengthen local disaster response systems and expressed readiness to back both local and national PDRRMO programs.

The training gathered around 30 participants from various government agencies in the province, including local disaster risk reduction and management officers.

Five qualified trainers with expertise in emergency operations and disaster preparedness are facilitating the sessions.

On the first day, topics included an introduction to EOC, EOC operations, and EOC staffing and organization. The second day will cover EOC facility design and requirements, information management, and the planning process.

The final day will feature a simulation exercise, allowing participants to apply their learning in a realistic scenario. This will be followed by an EOC readiness assessment, final evaluation, final exam, and a closing program. (PNA)