Senate Majority Leader Francis ‘Tol’ Tolentino cited the importance of having provincial evacuation centers that could help accommodate displaced communities in times of disasters.
The Senator made his remark on Thursday, October 24, amid the massive flooding and landslides that occurred in several areas in the Bicol Region due to ‘Kristine.’ Tolentino stressed that the presence of these evacuation centers would provide local governments and rescuers with more options on where to safely bring evacuees.
Moreover, the information officer of the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) in Bicol reported to Tolentino that the region's provincial evacuation centers are actively being used in rescue and relief efforts.
However, this suggestion isn't all that new to Tolentino. In 2022, he initiated the construction of provincial evacuation centers in Camarines Norte, Camarines Sur, Sorsogon, Masbate, and Catanduanes, through the national budget.
Bicol is one of the most disaster-prone regions in the country, due to its location. As a result, it is often hit by typhoons, causing floods and landslides. It is also home to active volcanoes like the Mt. Mayon.
"Many groups are ready to extend assistance, and I encourage organizations and individuals who want to help to coordinate with our government agencies to facilitate relief efforts for our affected kababayans in Bicol," Tolentino said.
