Xavier University – Ateneo de Cagayan successfully conducted a comprehensive campus fire drill for Cluster A, demonstrating a high level of preparedness and achieving an overall performance rating of 4.1 out of 5 (Very Satisfactory).
Organized by the University’s Safety and Security Office with the strong support from the Office of the Vice President for Administration, the drill involved students, faculty, non-teaching personnel, and emergency response teams across major campus facilities, including the Library and Annex, Science Center, and Agriculture buildings. The simulation tested alarm systems, evacuation procedures, fire suppression capabilities, and medical response readiness.
Safety and Security Office (SSIO) Safety Officer Mr Apollo M Bacas says that “This drill is not just a compliance activity—it is a life-saving practice,” and the goal is to “ensure that every member of the university community knows exactly what to do when a real emergency occurs.”
The exercise simulated fire incidents in key areas, prompting the activation of alarms and immediate evacuation. Occupants exited through designated routes under the supervision of trained wardens and assembled in pre-identified safe zones for accountability checks. Simultaneously, the University fire brigade conducted fire suppression operations, while first aid teams managed mock casualties.
Participants noted the value of the exercise in enhancing awareness and confidence. Building Emergency Action coordinator for Science Center and Vice Chair for Committee on Safety, Security and Health Ms Gertrude M Garcia shares that the exercise “was very organized and helped us stay calm and focused.” A student participant also adds, “It felt intense at first, but now I know what to do. It makes me feel safer.”
Technical Evaluation and Ratings
Independent evaluators and observers assessed the drill using a standardized performance framework. Results indicate strong compliance with safety protocols, with opportunities for improvement in coordination and congestion management:
Alarm system | 4.5/5 |
Evacuation Efficiency | 4.2/5 |
Crowd management | 3.9/5 |
Fire Response | 4.3/5 |
Medical Response | 4.1/5 |
Coordination | 3.8/5 |
OVERALL | 4. 1/5 |
Evaluators commend the general efficiency of evacuation and the preparedness of responders. “Occupants demonstrated awareness of exit routes, which reflects effective prior orientation,” one evaluator noted. However, improvements were recommended in communication flow and movement control in high-density areas.
According to another evaluator, FO3 Rene Chavez of the Fire Station 1, BFP, “The fire brigade and medical teams showed strong teamwork and readiness. Continued scenario-based drills will further enhance response time and coordination.”
The University emphasized that the findings will inform future improvements in emergency systems, training, and infrastructure.
SSIO Director Mr Romulo C Hojas “We see every drill as an opportunity to improve… Preparedness is a continuous process, and we remain committed to ensuring the safety of our entire academic community.”