The Department of Communication and Development Studies (DCDS) under the College of Arts and Social Sciences (CASS) conducted a two-day training workshop on Risk and Crisis Communication on December 5-6, 2024, at the OVPAA Ampitheater and FPJ Communication Hall on respective dates.
This initiative is part of the Department’s extension program to equip key personnel in the university with the knowledge and tools to handle potential risks during urgent situations.
Ms. Aileen A. Garcia, Senior Stakeholder Management and Advocacy Officer from the International Rice Research Institute, discussed the theories, principles, and practices of risk and crisis communication. She emphasized the need for a science-based approach to anticipating, preparing for, and practicing risk communication.
While, Dr. Ronan G. Zagado, DCDS Associate Professor, discussed real-life applications and strategies, highlighting how to address high-pressure situations properly. He underscored that high-concern situations change how people communicate, but their issues and concerns can be predicted and prepared for.
The University Disaster Risk Reduction Management (UDRRM) focal persons, college strategic communication coordinators, and strategic communication office personnel participated in the event as key personnel involved in disseminating information during high-concern and high-stress situations.
Participants underwent a simulation exercise in which they were tasked with identifying stakeholders, developing key messages, and developing a strategy and tactic to communicate successfully during urgent situations.
