AB COMM 2C launches seminar on communicating calamities

Report by Cenon Pineda | Photos by Joaquin Umali

AB COMM 2C officially launched their program entitled “Communicating Calamities: A Seminar on DRRM Frameworks and the Philippine Cluster Approach” last Monday, April 28, 2025, at the Theater Room of Smith Hall Building, TSU Main Campus.

The discussion was spearheaded by Ms. Jhonel Yumul, a Project Development Officer II at Social Welfare and Development Office Tarlac. She aimed to equip students with further knowledge regarding Disaster and Risk Reduction Management Frameworks both in national and international contexts.

Moreover, concepts like the Sendai Framework and the distinction between disaster and vulnerabilities were addressed, particularly in Tarlac City where critically endangered zones are more affected by possible risks through the construction of villages beside irrigation system.

Despite the setbacks, it was stated that Tarlac City still remains as a hallmark of excellency in the face of danger and disaster.

“Ang Tarlac ay Hall of Famer sa Disaster Risk Reduction and Management dahil sa mga advanced na early warning signals na pinag-bebenchmarkan ng ibang mga probinsiya ng Central Luzon,” Ms. Yumul shared.

Students were also highly encouraged to act as catalysts of information within their own families and communities as spreading awareness is one of the hardships faced by the local authorities.

“Magandang audience kayong mga students dahil pag-uwi niyo, ma-facilitate niyo na rin yung family niyo, dahil ‘yan yung challenge natin sa Philippines, dahil we live by our Mañana habit,” Ms. Yumul stated, recognizing Filipinos’ habit of putting off things until the last moment even at the cost of safety.

Meanwhile, AB COMM 2C prepared interactive games, like “Spell it Hard,” which tested the audience’s knowledge about the topic at hand, and simulation games where they were exposed to situational questions and had to provide solutions.

The seminar culminated with the awarding of certificates and presentations prepared by the students.