VSU Incident Management Team lay down guidelines for Intramural Games

As Visayas State University (VSU) prepares to host one of the most anticipated annual events, the 2024 University Intramural Games dubbed Salingkusog, key organizational units have mobilized to ensure a smooth and secure event.

Based on OP Memo 233 and 239 series of 2024, the 2024 VSU Intramural Games were rescheduled from October 22-25 to October 28-30, 2024, with advance games to be conducted starting tomorrow, October 25.

The postponement was brought about by Tropical Storm Kristine (Trami), which continues to bring strong winds and heavy flooding in the Luzon area of the Philippines.

In a series of recent meetings held from October 22 to 24, the Incident Command System (ICS) and the Crisis Management Committee (CMC) convened to discuss protocols, strategies, and contingency plans for the university-wide sports spectacle.

The ICS, a vital part of VSU’s disaster and event management system, has been activated to oversee the operational and security aspects of the games. Headed by top university officials, the ICS emphasized the importance of safety, security, and logistical preparedness in hosting an event that will draw large crowds, including students, faculty, alumni, and visitors from partner institutions.

During the meetings, ICS representatives outlined detailed protocols for crowd control, medical emergencies, fire safety, and disaster preparedness for bad weather conditions. They also coordinated with local law enforcement agencies and emergency response teams to ensure that VSU could effectively handle any potential disruptions or risks during the games.

In line with the ICS, the University Services for Health, Emergency and Rescue (USHER) has planned to set up a series of pop-up medical stations across key venues, ensuring that medical personnel are on standby throughout the event. Moreover, evacuation plans have been updated to ensure that swift action can be taken in case of unforeseen emergencies.

Working alongside the ICS, the Crisis Management Committee (CMC) developed risk assessments and crisis communication plans, especially in light of recent typhoons and other disasters that have affected the region. The committee laid down preventive measures to address potential weather disturbances, including protocols for halting outdoor games during severe weather and rescheduling events.

The CMC has also prepared a multi-platform communication system to inform the university community about potential crises and provide regular updates regarding changes in the event schedule. This system includes real-time social media updates, email alerts from the University Integrated Media Center (UIMC), and coordination with campus development radio DYDC-FM.

During ICS and CMC meetings, discussions also revolved around venue security, crowd flow management, and overall logistics. The organizers expect a large turnout, and to address this, strict entry and exit points will be designated in all sporting venues. Security personnel will be stationed across the university to monitor key areas and ensure that the games proceed without disruptions.

This year’s intramural games, Salingkusog—which translates to "transfer of strength"—aims to revive camaraderie, competition, and physical and mental fitness among students, faculty, and staff members of VSU. With a wide array of sports events planned, from basketball and volleyball to track-and-field and traditional Filipino games, the intramural games are expected to draw widespread participation and engagement across the university.

In the final leg of the meetings, VSU President Prof. Dr. Prose Ivy G. Yepes reaffirmed the university’s commitment to making Salingkusog 2024 a memorable event while ensuring the highest standards of safety and crisis management. 

She emphasized the role of both the ICS and CMC in creating a balance between fostering a fun atmosphere and maintaining order during the games.

With preparations well underway, the university community looks forward to a successful Salingkusog, confident that the collaborative efforts of the ICS, CMC, and other university stakeholders will ensure a smooth and enjoyable event.

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