In an era where emergency preparedness is paramount, Pilmico, an esteemed subsidiary of Aboitiz Foods, underscored its unwavering commitment to safety and resilience on March 28, 2025. The company conducted its annual Simulation Exercise (SimEx) at its Iligan site, a meticulously planned drill aimed at evaluating and enhancing emergency response systems. This year’s exercise showcased an impressive focus on preparing for complex emergencies, emphasizing the importance of collaboration among various agencies.
Uniting Forces for a Common Goal
Pilmico's successful simulation exercise was made possible through the collaborative efforts of eight partner agencies. These included the Iligan City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO), Iligan Police Station 3, the Iligan Forensic Unit, the Iligan City Explosive Ordnance Disposal and Canine Unit, the Iligan City Fire Station, the Barangay Dalipuga Response Team, the Coast Guard Station Lanao del Norte, and the Iligan City Task Force (Army). By bringing these entities together, Pilmico created a platform for a highly realistic and impactful emergency drill, demonstrating the strength of unified action in safeguarding the community.
The exercise consisted of a series of multi-scenario tests, which were designed to challenge the preparedness of all participating agencies. Among the scenarios were responses to maritime terrorism, oil spills, fire outbreaks, and personnel injuries. Each situation posed unique challenges that required swift and decisive action, thereby testing the robustness of Pilmico’s emergency protocols. For instance, the first scenario, which commenced at 9:00 AM, involved suspicious trawlers entering the 150-meter jurisdiction of the Pilmico port, leading to a cascade of simulated crises that included hostile actions, environmental hazards, and multiple mock injuries.
Effective Responses and Key Takeaways
The execution of the simulation exercise highlighted the importance of rapid response and teamwork in emergency situations. Oil spill response teams showcased their expertise by swiftly deploying containment booms to mitigate environmental damage. Meanwhile, firefighters from the Iligan City Fire Station demonstrated their training by promptly suppressing the simulated blaze. Coast Guard units played a crucial role in securing the perimeter, ensuring maritime coordination, and facilitating effective communication among all teams involved.
Furthermore, on-site medical teams were instrumental in treating staged casualties, including a simulated gunshot victim. Their ability to provide immediate medical assistance not only illustrated the importance of preparedness but also underscored the necessity of having skilled professionals on hand during emergencies.
To conclude the exercise, the Pilmico Site Incident Management Team (SIMT), along with participating agencies and invited observers, convened for a post-drill debriefing. This session served as an opportunity to celebrate collaborative successes, discuss key takeaways, and identify areas for improvement. The insights gained from this exercise will undoubtedly contribute to refining emergency protocols and enhancing overall community resilience.
The 2025 Iligan SimEx proved to be a resounding success, reinforcing the strong collaboration and shared commitment of the Pilmico team and partner agencies to safeguarding lives and bolstering disaster resilience. This exercise deepened the trust among all teams involved and emphasized the invaluable role of teamwork during emergencies. As threats continue to evolve, such preparation ensures that the community remains ready, capable, and well-coordinated in responding swiftly and confidently to real-world crises.
In summary, Pilmico's commitment to emergency preparedness through the 2025 Simulation Exercise not only enhances its operational capacity but also stands as a testament to the power of collaboration in fostering a safer and more resilient community. By continuing to invest in such initiatives, Pilmico not only protects its own operations but also contributes to the greater good, ultimately ensuring the safety and well-being of the community it serves.
