House OKs bill establishing evacuation centers in each city, municipality on 2nd reading

MANILA, Philippines — The House of Representatives approved on second reading a bill pushing for the establishment of evacuation centers in every city and municipality in the country.

During Tuesday’s session, the lower chamber approved on second reading House Bill No. 8990 through voice voting.

Under the measure, evacuation centers have to be constructed in all cities and municipalities to serve as immediate and temporary shelter for people who have been evacuated or displaced from their homes due to emergencies such as typhoons, floods, and fire, among others.

Existing structures that would meet the minimum requirements or could be upgraded to serve as evacuation centers can also be designated as such.

The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) shall be in charge of the construction of the evacuation centers while cities and municipalities are responsible for the operation, supervision, management, and maintenance of the structures.

In terms of implementation of the bill, areas that are identified as disaster prone, financially incapable, and do not have an existing evacuation center of their own will be prioritized.

The measure still needs to be approved on third reading to hurdle the House.

JE