The House Bill on establishing permanent and storm-resilient centers in cities and municipalities across the country is about to be enacted, House Speaker Martin Romualdez said during the Congress’ 18th session on Monday, November 4.
House Bill 7354 or the Ligtas Pinoy Centers Act aims to construct evacuation centers that are fully equipped and disaster-ready in every city and municipality. Romualdez said that while the country is recovering from the effects of Severe Tropical Storm Kristine, the government should prepare for the next calamity.
In preparation for that, he highlighted the establishment of safe and durable evacuation sites for those vulnerable to the effects of natural disasters. Under the said bill, the establishments to be set up should be able to endure about 300 km/h winds brought by the storm and an earthquake with a magnitude of 80.
The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) is assigned to erect the centers, alongside the local government units (LGUs) in each designated area. However, the House Speaker noted that they should abide by the rules of the National Building Code.
“This legislative measure is essential for protecting communities during disasters by establishing and maintaining safe, fully equipped, and permanent evacuation centers in every city and every municipality,” Romualdez said.
Additionally, the National Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) is also required to coordinate with LGUs to identify the most suitable place for the establishment of the evacuation sites.
Romualdez said that the bill’s enactment will serve as a response to the LGUs' appeal to establish safe and sturdy infrastructures that can withstand natural and man-made calamities.
