PRESS RELEASE
27 SEPTEMBER 2024
CUA SUPPORTS IMPENDING PASSAGE OF PERMANENT EVACUATION CENTERS LAW
Union of Local Authorities of the Philippines president and Quirino governor Dax Cua expressed his support for the impending enactment of a measure that would mandate the creation of permanent evacuation centers in every city and municipality in the country.
“We support the creation of permanent evacuation centers in the country, which would provide a safe and humane refuge to members of communities during calamities,” Cua said.
The Senate recently passed on third and final reading Senate Bill No. 2452, or the Ligtas Pinoy Centers. The version of the House of Representatives was passed last year.
The bill requires the construction of typhoon-resilient and earthquake-proof evacuation centers with amenities such as sleeping quarters, shower and toilet facilities, kitchen and food preparation and dining areas, a health care station, women and child-friendly spaces, standby power for lighting, and operation of medical and communication equipment, among others, to ensure that evacuees live in humane conditions.
Cua highlighted the need for permanent evacuation centers in light of the harsher effects of natural calamities due to climate change.
“We have to recognize that we are facing a more precarious condition because of climate change, so we must adapt as well as create strategies that would help mitigate the effects of the vastly-changed environment,” said the governor.
He said that the construction of permanent evacuation centers would also prevent the disruption in classes due to schools being used as temporary shelters.
“Sa kasalukuyan kasi, ang madalas na nagiging casualty rin tuwing may kalamidad ay ang edukasyon ng mga bata dahil ang mga paaralan ang madalas na ginagamit na evacuation center,” said Cua.
He also urged the national government to create a plan in concert with local government units as early as now so “we can hit the ground running once President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. signs the measure.”
----- o0o -----
