Joint disaster response teams strengthen disaster readiness through Pacific Partnership 2026 USAR Training

By DPAO, 8ID PA
September 18, 2026

CAMP LUKBAN, Catbalogan City – A total of 79 personnel from various government agencies, military units, and emergency response organizations participated in an Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) Training started on September 14, 2026, at HTG Tacloban, Barangays 1 and 2, Libertad, Tacloban City.

The training brought together responders from different sectors to enhance their knowledge, technical skills, and operational coordination in conducting search and rescue operations, particularly during emergencies and disaster situations.

The participants included 26 personnel from the Philippine Army, 8 from the Philippine Air Force, 10 from the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), 6 from the Philippine Coast Guard, 7 from the Philippine National Police (PNP), 7 from the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO) of Ormoc, 5 from TACRU-CDRRMO, and 10 Army Reservists, along with personnel from the U.S. Navy.

The training covered essential USAR techniques and procedures, including marking systems, search and locate techniques for rope operations, knot tying, victim packaging, shortening systems, line-pattern and cross-pattern searches, rope works, ascending and descending rope courses, mechanical advantage systems, and ground-school hauling techniques.

Through a collaborative effort among participating agencies and units, the training provided an avenue for responders to exchange knowledge and practical skills while strengthening interoperability and coordination during search and rescue operations.

The activity highlighted the importance of developing a well-trained, coordinated, and capable disaster response community. By bringing together military personnel, law enforcement officers, firefighters, maritime personnel, disaster response teams, reservists, and international partners, the training strengthened the collective capacity to respond to emergencies that may require specialized search and rescue capabilities.

The Pacific Partnership 2026 activities go beyond training exercises. They provide an opportunity to build lasting relationships, enhance disaster preparedness, and strengthen the ability of partners to respond to humanitarian challenges.

Through shared training and cooperation, participating organizations continue to develop stronger partnerships and improve their readiness to assist communities during times of crisis.