According to the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) website, they have just formed and trained a battalion-sized rescue unit to respond to major disasters and calamities within Metro Manila and some nearby provinces—in a moment’s notice.
MMDA Chairman Francis Tolentino said, “This Rescue Battalion has special equipment and training. They will be called upon to deploy, even in short notice, in critical areas where their skills are needed.”
The MMDA Recue Battalion is made up of people from various MMDA units such as Metro Parkway Clearing Group (MPCG), Public Safety Division, Road Emergency Group, Sidewalk Clearing Operations Group (SCOG), Baklas Billboard and Task Force Takipsilim.
Just how equipped are they? Members went through training on water search and rescue, debris clearing, emergency communication and transport, and relief and rehabilitation services, among others. They also have their own amphibious truck, plus around 100 rubber boats.
