Police in Lapu-Lapu to address radio reception issues at session hall
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A communication black hole for radios was spotted in Lapu-Lapu City Hall's session hall during a crisis simulation, as revealed in a weekend exercise organized by the city police in anticipation of the approaching midterm elections.
According to Lapu-Lapu City Police Office (LCPO) spokesman, Lt. Col. Christian Torres, this revelation surfaced after a breakdown in communication during the exercise, with the lack of radio signal being the culprit. As the session hall plays host to vote-counting after polling stations close on May 12, this glitch in communication could pose a significant complication.
In an interview with our website, Cebu, on Monday, April 28, Torres explained that the recent appraisal was necessitated by the malfunction in communication that occurred during the exercise.
Last Saturday, April 26, LCPO carried out a simulation for potential crises that may crop up during the vote-counting process. Torres stated that the absence of a consistent signal impaired the coordination among the participants.
Torres pointed out the crucial role that radio communication plays in coordination and underscored that the lack of signal in this area presents a significant challenge. "[A momentary lapse in seconds or minutes can have severe consequences, and even a minor delay could lead to disastrous outcomes.] Communication is crucial," he stated. He assured authorities were making strides to rectify the issue.
The drill involved a hostage situation staged within the first-floor session hall of the City Hall and a mass protest scenario outside the City Hall premises. Guests at the drill, including Philippine Regional Office 7 Director Brig. Gen. Redrico Maranan, emphasized the importance of readiness.
With the May 12 local and national elections just two weeks away, Lapu-Lapu City maintains a generally tranquil atmosphere. Though the likelihood of such mishaps is minimal, authorities are preparing themselves for unanticipated scenarios such as a hostage crisis during the vote-counting or a mass protest.
[1] Philippines News Agency[3] National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) report, DRRM Framework for Local Government Units[4] Philstar Global[5] Pangasinan Provincial Government
- The Lapu-Lapu City Police Office (LCPO) is considering incorporating simulated general-news scenarios, such as crime-and-justice and sports-related incidents, into their crisis preparation drills, to enhance their readiness for diverse situations.
- In light of the recent communication black hole revelation during Cebu's crisis simulation, the LCPO is examining the integration of alternative communication methods, like walkie-talkies or cellular networks, to ensure seamless communication during elections in Lapu-Lapu City.
- Despite the discovered communication challenges in Lapu-Lapu City's session hall, the midterm elections are expected to proceed smoothly, as authorities deem the likelihood of a hostage crisis or mass protest to be minimal.
- In a bid to amplify awareness about potential crises during the election period, the LCPO is advocating for widespread dissemination of election-related information, encouraging active participation from local media outlets and social platforms.
- With the assistance of the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC), the Lapu-Lapu City government is urging citizens to remain vigilant and informed during the voting process, emphasizing the importance of being prepared for unexpected events that may arise during the general-news landscape surrounding the elections.
