In order to create a statewide network of permanent, storm-resilient evacuation centers that can resist typhoon winds and seismic activity of up to magnitude 8.0, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. signed Republic Act 12076, also known as the Ligtas Pinoy Centers Act, on December 6.
According to the Office of Civil Defense (OCD), the recent enactment of the Ligtas Pinoy Centers Act would lessen the need for public schools to serve as makeshift evacuation hubs during emergencies.
"This will ensure that educational institutions remain operational and can better serve their primary purpose, even in times of crisis," a statement from the agency read.
Fully equipped evacuation centers
As the nation recovers from a string of tropical cyclones that hit it in October and November of this year, the new law was signed and will require all cities and municipalities in the country to build permanent evacuation facilities that are resilient to disasters.
The evacuation centers will prioritize high-risk and disaster-prone locations and be fully furnished with sleeping quarters, medical stations, sanitary facilities, and livestock provisions.
Helping the education sector
At the moment, the Department of Education (DepEd) permits public schools to act as evacuation hubs. To reduce disruptions to instruction, the usage of school facilities is limited to 15 days. DepEd has a policy that requires LGUs to use classrooms as a last resort.
“This legislation is a game-changer not only for our disaster response, but also for public education. It addresses a long-standing issue of public schools being used as evacuation centers. With this law, we can ensure that learning recovery can immediately take place after disasters,” Secretary Sonny Angara said in a press release.
