Go attends inauguration of Albay evacuation center

MANILA, Philippines — In line with his commitment to improve disaster preparedness and resilience, Sen. Bong Go attended the inauguration of a newly constructed evacuation center in Barangay Banquerohan in Legazpi City, Albay on Thursday.

The evacuation center was funded through Go’s efforts as vice chairman of the Senate committee on finance in collaboration with the city government and the Ang Probinsyano party-list.

During the event, Go emphasized the crucial role of the evacuation center, particularly in a region frequently impacted by typhoons and volcanic activities.

The new evacuation center is equipped with essential amenities and constructed to withstand severe weather conditions. Its location in Barangay Banquerohan ensures accessibility to the most vulnerable populations.

Go is co-sponsor and one of the authors of Senate Bill No. 2451 or the proposed Ligtas Pinoy Centers Act. The bill, principally sponsored by Sen. Jinggoy Estrada, aims to establish fully functional evacuation centers in strategic locations nationwide.

Go said basketball courts, covered courts and schools used as temporary shelters disrupt children’s education and compromises the welfare of evacuees.

“Dapat sana, mayroon tayong nakahandang permanenteng evacuation centers na may malinis na sanitation at komportableng mahihigaan at matutulugan at may maayos na comfort room... Huwag na natin pahirapan ang mga kababayan nating naghihirap. Bigyan natin ito ng solusyon bago pa dumating ang panibagong sakuna,” Go said.

The senator also continues to push for the passage of Senate Bill No. 188 or the proposed Department of Disaster Resilience Act, which seeks to establish a specialized agency committed to developing adaptable, disaster-resilient and secure communities.