Ang Pahayagan

SUBIC BAY FREEPORT – Subic Bay International Terminals (SBITC) recently conducted a Water Rescue and Security Measures Simulation Exercise within its berthing area to strengthen emergency preparedness and ensure the safety of personnel operating in the port environment.

Anchored on the theme “Ikaw, Ako, Safe Dapat. Safety Laging Una,” the activity reaffirmed SBITC’s commitment to maintaining a safe and secure working environment for employees, port users, and stakeholders. The exercise was observed by representatives from the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) Seaport Department and the SBMA Fire Department.

The simulation featured a man-overboard scenario during routine vessel operations, where a company stevedore accidentally slipped and fell into the water from the quay edge within the terminal premises. In the drill, the individual remained conscious and responsive but was unable to self-rescue due to panic and the proximity of berth structures. Nearby personnel immediately reported the incident, triggering the terminal’s emergency response protocol.

The exercise focused on practicing reach-and-throw rescue techniques, particularly the deployment of a life buoy ring with rope, led by the SBITC Emergency Response Team (ERT). The SBMA rescue team remained on standby as a secondary responder, prepared to conduct further patient assessment following recovery if necessary.

The simulation aimed to ensure that water safety policies are properly implemented while also testing the ability of stevedores and supervisors to quickly recognize, report, and respond to a man-overboard situation. It also evaluated emergency response activation, response time, coordination among responders, and the effectiveness of communication protocols.

In addition, the drill assessed key security and operational procedures, including crowd control, berth isolation, and temporary operational stoppage during emergencies. The activity also tested coordination between SBITC personnel, SBMA responders, and partner agencies to ensure a unified and efficient emergency response.

SBITC underscored that safety remains a top priority across its operations, emphasizing the importance of safety awareness among port workers. Personnel were reminded that untrained individuals must not enter the water during rescue situations and that proper rescue techniques and equipment should always be used.