QC teachers undergo disaster management training

QUEZON CITY, Philippines – A few days before classes and the typhoon season begin, teachers from 4 public schools in Quezon City on Tuesday, May 26, underwent training on disaster management at the Kamuning Elementary School.

Rappler, in partnership with YesPinoy Foundation, encouraged the teachers to harness the power of technology in providing crucial and accurate information when natural disasters strike.

The teachers were introduced to Project Agos – a crowdsourcing platform that uses both technology and social media in providing critical information needed before, during, and after a disaster.

Jed Alegado and Lou Gepuela of Rappler gave the teachers a tutorial on how to use this platform, and how they can engage in the flow of critical information during calamities. They were also inspired by the Rappler team to tell stories of their compelling experiences during a disaster to teach other people a lesson, and to encourage them to prepare for upcoming catastrophes.

Romela Garcia, a science teacher at Kamuning Elementary School, said teachers play a big role in promoting zero casualty during disasters for they are the ones who teach students about disaster preparedness, response, and recovery.

She also stressed the usefulness of social media in disseminating important information to pupils and parents when disasters occur.

“I’m on Facebook. With Project Agos, I can easily give updates to parents and pupils during disasters and provide them help if they need it,” Garcia said in Filipino.

Meanwhile, Pia Morato, an education advocate, said crowdsourcing platforms can empower teachers.

“Once they [teachers] know what to do, teachers can facilitate learning and actions, and crowdsourcing can help them play that role,” she said.

The Project Agos training is a part of the 5-day In-Service Training (INSET) for teachers. INSET is required by the Department of Education in preparation for the opening of classes in June. – Rappler.com