ERUF, Army aim to get Insarag accreditation

CEBU, Philippines - The Emergency Rescue Unit Foundation (ERUF) and the Philippine Army signed an agreement to jointly apply for an accreditation with an international search and rescue organization.

Both organizations believe that joining the International Search and Rescue Advisory Group (Insarag) would give them opportunity to learn more on how to respond to calamities, especially earthquake.

At the same time, they will be able to impart their knowledge based on their experience here in the country.

“We wish to be part of something amazing. We thought that the time has come for us to join the INSARAG,” ERUF chairman Pek Eng Lim said.

Defense Secretary and National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council chairman Voltaire Gazmin was also present to sign the agreement in a brief ceremony at ERUF Base 1 in Banilad, Cebu City at 7:30 am yesterday.

“We’ll get stronger if we join Insarag,” he said.

Only four countries in Southeast Asia namely Japan, South Korea, China, and Singapore are Insarag-accredited.

“We’re looking forward to the accreditation,” PA commanding General Emmanuel Bautista also said.

Gazmin, for his part, said the signing of the MOA is a strong affirmation of the professional efficiency and effectiveness of the units’ search and rescue programs.

“We laud this decision of the Philippine Army and the ERUF for their readiness and willingness to assist to any international calamities. NDRRMC will support the accreditation,” Gazmin said. (FREEMAN)