CEMEX launches disaster preparedness program in public schools

CEMEX Philippines Foundation, the corporate social responsibility arm of CEMEX Holdings Philippines, together with the Bureau of Fire Prevention, recently launched the “Barangay Alerto” program – a holistic and comprehensive program for disaster preparedness at CEPOC Central Elementary School, Barangay Tina-an, Naga City.

Disaster preparedness is a key preventive measure to lessen the impact of floods, earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, landslides, and the like on vulnerable communities. By having a coordinated plan when disasters strike, numerous lives can be saved and resources may also be spared.

There are many elements involved in disaster preparedness, and the need to learn about the appropriate measures during such occurrences must be clearly communicated to the public. Starting with the youth, the Barangay Alerto program made learning about disaster preparedness relatable and creative through a board game. CEMEX commissioned the Asia Society for Social Improvement and Sustainable Transformation (ASSIST) to design the board game named “Master of Disaster” that will engage and educate the youth about disaster preparedness.

250 students from the Grade 4 and Grade 5 sections of CEPOC Elementary School participated in the soft launch. The students enjoyed playing the board game while at the same time learning about basic preparedness concepts during emergency situations and the corresponding ways to avoid certain disasters.

“Through the board game developed under the Barangay Alerto program, we can help children become more knowledgeable and mindful of disaster preparedness. We hope that they will be able to bring the lessons they gained from the game and the program in general to their homes as well,” says Chito Maniago, Regional Director for Corporate Communications and Public Affairs at CEMEX Philippines and Executive Director of CEMEX Philippines Foundation, Inc. “We aim to heighten awareness for disaster preparedness so that we can protect and sustain our communities.”

“This is only the beginning for the Barangay Alerto program. We will be targeting more schools in Naga City and also nationwide so we can educate more and more students on disaster preparedness,” added Maniago. “We are grateful for the support and cooperation of the CEPOC Elementary school administration, the Barangay Tina-an community as well as the BFP. Much like how multiple collaborations are keys to disaster preparedness, this campaign was made possible by the contributions and openness of the community.”

CEMEX not only provides the market with cost-effective and innovative building solutions, but as well as efforts that anticipate people’s needs and generate welfare for communities. The global company’s social development initiatives fall under its “Build the Nation Together” advocacy campaign, which includes programs for education, environmental stewardship, safety, community building, and more.

CEMEX’s worldwide corporate social responsibility efforts and inclusive business programs already benefitted 9.7 million people and targets to make it more than 15 million by year 2020.

CEMEX has a rich history of improving the welfare of those it serves through innovative building solutions, efficiency advancements, and efforts to promote a sustainable future in more than 50 countries worldwide. In the Philippines, CEMEX subsidiaries Apo Cement Corporation in Cebu and Solid Cement Corporation in Rizal produce and market a broad product mix of building solutions. These cement manufacturing plants carry the well-established cement brands Apo and Rizal. More information is available at www.cemexholdingsphilippines.com