By YOLLY Z. SOTELO

THE siren blared. The students ducked, covered and held on to their chairs. They did so for some minutes until the siren stopped. Then by twos they filed out of their rooms into the open space. Very calmly. Nobody ran, nor they walked faster than usual.

It was an earthquake drill last Friday at my Alma Mater — the Calasiao Comprehensive National High School. I was invited as one of the evaluators of the drill by teacher Janet Albaño, a relative and friend.

I was assigned to evaluate rooms 37 and 38.

At past 9:30 a.m., the siren of a fire truck went off. It was supposed to resemble the rumbling of the Earth. Of course, the students were already told beforehand what to do when the siren blares. And they did so, dutifully and calmly.

So calm that I thought something was amiss. Then I thought these young boys and girls were not born yet when the great earthquake of July 16, 1990 devastated Dagupan and suburbs, the cities of Baguio and Cabanatuan.

They did not experience the terror that we experienced when we saw the walls cracking, the floor opening up, the roof caving in, the water whooshing g from the land. They did not see the buildings virtually swaying with the Earth’s movement. They did not hear the panicky shouts of the people as they run around not knowing where to go. They did not see the terrified faces of people trying to find their way home. And, yes, trying to find their loved ones.

I saw a very young boy running in the field – back to his home. I don’t know what fear filled his heart as he ran as fast as he could while the Earth continued to growl under his little feet. I don’t know the horror his mother could have felt not knowing where his beloved son was at that moment.

So the young boys and girls in Calasiao were as relaxed as can be during the drill, some even using their mobile phones as they went out of their rooms. This prompted Joseph of Red Cross to comment, “If it’s a real earthquake, you won’t know what will shake you.”

Literally.

Not all students were included in the drill. It was explained that more than 50 volunteers would be needed to evaluate the proceedings. But since nobody is spared during a real earthquake, there will be another drill to be scheduled soon, so everyone will be aware of what to do in case the disaster strikes.

After the drill and while we were evaluating what happened, Supt. John Colinio suggested that everyone, including those outside the classrooms, be included in the drill. And “check the comfort rooms as there maybe people there,” he said.

But hey, while everyone seemingly was very calm during the drill, I learned that two students were hurt, one sprained his ankle. I don’t know what happened to the other one.

Imagine what can happen if it’s a real earthquake?