CAMP AGUINALDO, Quezon City—The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and Singapore Armed Force's Changi Regional Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief Coordination Centre (RHCC) conducted a two-day tabletop exercise from September 18 to 19, 2024 at the Office of Civil Defense here. The exercise aimed to strengthen coordination and enhance interoperability during Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) operations between the AFP, RHCC, and other participating agencies
The exercise focused on key objectives, including fostering stronger relationships between the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) and the AFP, improving joint HADR operations, and promoting the OPERA v2 Computer Information System (CIS) as a vital platform for information sharing and planning. The activity also aimed to establish robust network linkages and understanding between the AFP, RHCC, SAF, and various Philippine disaster management offices, government agencies, and civilian partners.
After a series of academic leveling lectures, participants worked in a scenario where a magnitude 7.2 earthquake with Intensity VIII struck Central Luzon, CALABARZON and Metro Manila, which particularly suffered regional isolation.
Prior to the exercise, participants engaged in virtual pre-exercise academic sessions covering key topics such as the Philippine Risk Reduction and Management System, the Philippine Harmonized National Contingency Plan, the NDRRMC Disaster Response Cluster, the Philippine International Humanitarian Assistance framework, and the OPERA CIS.
“This exercise met our objectives and expectations. It also helped us build stronger ties with our counterparts in the region and enhance our capacity to respond to humanitarian crises,” said Commander Gary Hilario, Chief of the Joint and Combined Training Division, Office of the Deputy Chief of Staff for Education, Training, and Doctrine, OJ8.
One of the key takeaways from the exercise was how it helped both armed forces learn and understand the commonalities and differences in each country’s approach to HADR operations. It also identified gaps and areas for improvement in disaster response management, paving the way for enhanced cooperation in future joint operations.
The collaboration between the AFP and RHCC, alongside other governmental and non-governmental agencies, ensures a more coordinated and efficient approach to HADR operations, reinforcing the country’s disaster preparedness efforts.
