The Light Rail Transit Authority (LRTA), through the Safety and Security Division (SSD), participated in the 3rd Quarter 2026 Nationwide Simultaneous Earthquake Drill (NSED) last September 10, 2026, as part of its continuing efforts to boost earthquake preparedness, emergency response, and disaster resilience within the LRT-2 System.

At around 1:30 PM, SSD personnel established a Command Post and prepared the designated evacuation area at the flagpole. Chief Safety Officer Mr. Nixon F. Pagcaliwagan served as the Incident Commander, while Ms. Donna Jane F. Oro, Senior Safety Specialist, served as the Team Coordinator.

The earthquake simulation drill commenced with loud sirens from megaphones serving as alarms, which were utilized by security personnel. LRTA personnel, including members of the Maintenance Transition Team (MTT) equipped with safety helmets, participated in the orderly and simultaneous evacuation toward the designated evacuation area.

Personnel lined up in their respective designated areas while assigned focal persons conducted a headcount and reported the personnel status to the Command Post. This procedure reinforced the importance of personnel accountability during emergency situations.

A total of 303 personnel participated in the simulation, with the actual evacuation completed in approximately three (3) minutes. Following the evacuation, Chief Safety Officer Mr. Nixon F. Pagcaliwagan provided a briefing on the earthquake drill, emphasizing its importance and objective of ensuring that personnel are knowledgeable and prepared on the appropriate actions to take during an earthquake.

The successful conduct of the drill provided LRTA personnel with an opportunity to practice essential emergency procedures, including alarm activation, orderly evacuation, personnel accountability, command and coordination, and communication during an earthquake scenario. Regular participation in disaster preparedness exercises helps strengthen the agency’s emergency response capabilities and reinforces a culture of safety and preparedness among its personnel.

The LRTA, through the Safety and Security Division, remains committed to continuously enhancing its disaster preparedness and emergency response mechanisms to help ensure the safety and security of its employees, passengers, and stakeholders throughout the LRT-2 System.