High school students from Davao del Sur are equipped with essential life-saving skills, such as Basic Life Support and swift water rescue techniques
skills to become the next generation of first responders.
Mindanao, once largely shielded from severe natural disasters, is now facing increasingly intense typhoons and floods. These escalating threats highlight the need for disaster preparedness, especially among youth who are stepping up as first responders in their communities.
In response, Hedcor, the renewable energy asset manager of AboitizPower, in partnership with Aboitiz Foundation, has launched a training initiative to equip high school students from Sibulan National High School and Tudaya National High School in Santa Cruz, Davao del Sur, with essential life-saving skills. The program teaches Basic Life Support (BLS) and swift water rescue techniques, specifically tailored to the disaster risks these communities face.
Led by the Local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (LDRRMO) of Santa Cruz, the training includes in-depth instruction in disaster risk reduction, emergency care, and rescue transfer. Many of these students, who previously had no formal emergency training, are now confident in their abilities to take charge during crises, particularly those involving floods, which are increasingly common across the region.
“This training opened my eyes to how I can help my community,” said Lady Joy Ayoc, a student from Sibulan National High School. “Knowing life-saving techniques makes me feel empowered and ready for any emergency.” Fellow participant Juicy Ote from Tudaya National High School echoed, “Before, I never thought I could be a first responder. Now, I have the confidence and skills to save lives, especially during floods.”
To further support the students, Hedcor and Aboitiz Foundation have donated first aid and rescue equipment to both schools, ensuring that the youth have the resources to act effectively in emergencies. This support reinforces the importance of trained, prepared individuals who can quickly respond when disaster strikes, making their communities safer and more resilient.
Rolando Pacquiao, President and COO of Hedcor, stressed the impact of involving youth in disaster preparedness: “Empowering the next generation with life-saving skills not only prepares them for emergencies but strengthens the entire community. The youth are our future leaders, and through this initiative, we are building a culture of preparedness where they take the lead in protecting and serving their communities.”
With the increasing unpredictability of natural disasters, Hedcor and Aboitiz Foundation’s initiative is setting the stage for a more resilient, prepared Mindanao, where young first responders are ready to protect and serve. The program is a testament to the critical role of youth in shaping safer, disaster-ready communities.
As disasters become more frequent and severe in the Philippines, Hedcor and Aboitiz Foundation’s initiative provides young people with the knowledge and tools to make a real difference. This collaboration between Hedcor, Aboitiz Foundation, local schools, and government agencies showcases the power of communities united in resilience, creating a prepared, disaster-ready Mindanao.
