Presidential spokesman Edwin Lacierda. INQUIRER FILE PHOTO
MANILA, Philippines – A Malacañang official on Wednesday insisted that the government’s concern is the safety of the people, amid criticisms on the size of the controversial bunkhouses being built in areas hit by Supertyphoon “Yolanda.”
Asked if he thought the bunkhouses were “humane,” presidential spokesperson Edwin Lacierda said, “[Our] concern [is] safety. [Our] concern [is to address the] congestion.”
He gave a similar answer when asked what the government standards were for temporary shelters.
“They’re people. We’re taking care of them. Their concern is our concern,” an exasperated Lacierda said.
Lacierda explained that they have already expanded the bunkhouse units by taking out partitions. This would result in bunkhouses accommodating just 12 families instead of 24.
On Monday, Public Works and Highways Secretary Rogelio Singson said the rooms will be expanded from 8.64 square meters (sqm.) to 17.28 sqm. He said the criticisms will not stop them from building bunkhouses.
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