Andina

Peru: President Boluarte calls on citizens to participate in disaster drills responsibly

Photo: ANDINA/Eddy Ramos

Photo: ANDINA/Eddy Ramos

12:35 | Lima, May. 31.

The President of the Republic Dina Boluarte on Wednesday called on citizens for reflection in order to take seriously the drills against natural disasters, because they contribute to training and practicing so as to protect our loved ones' lives.

"I call on all Peruvians to join responsibly these drills in order to protect our lives and those of our loved ones," Mrs. Boluarte said outside the Government Palace after having participated in the 2023 National Multi-hazard Drill.

The Head of State affirmed that the Executive Branch will remain on alert in the face of a possible natural phenomenon or a catastrophe that might occur in Peru.

"From the Government, we, through Indeci (the National Civil Defense Institute) and also through this joint work (carried out) with the municipality and private companies, will be attentive to any natural disaster, such as in the north due to the Yaku (cyclone)," the top official expressed.

"And we are already preparing for a probable Coastal El Niño (phenomenon)," she added.

The top official reminded citizens that Peru is located in the so-called Ring of Fire. Thus, "a major disaster can take us by surprise at any moment."

On this occasion, President Boluarte was accompanied by Cabinet Chief Otarola, Defense Minister Jorge Chavez Cresta, and Metropolitan Lima Mayor Rafael Lopez Aliaga.

May 31 marks the "Day of Solidarity and Reflection on Natural Disasters" decreed in homage to the victims of the largest natural disaster in the country's history: the Ancash Earthquake.

In 1970, it caused the death of more than 60,000 people and left some 180,000 injured.

(END) GDS/CVC/MVB

Published: 5/31/2023