PB asks towns to retrofit old structures

THE Cebu Provincial Board (PB) passed a resolution requesting all local government units in the province to require retrofitting of structures that have been standing for 10 years or more.

The legislation was approved by the Board in its regular session yesterday.

Board Member Thadeo Ouano sponsored the resolution in response to the effects of the 7.2-magnitude earthquake that struck the provinces of Cebu and Bohol.

“With public safety as first priority, there is a need to reconstruct all old structures to qualify to the National Building Code standards which must be done immediately before another disaster happens,” Ouano stated in his resolution.

Aside from asking LGUs to require the retrofitting of old structures, it also said buildings may be converted into “green buildings” if possible to make them environment-friendly and resource-efficient.

All mayors of cities and municipalities were sent copies of the resolution for their appropriate action. /Victor Anthony V. Silva, Correspondent