In light of two recent fatal earthquakes, the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) has called on Local Government Units (LGUs) to urgently reinforce and refine their disaster-readiness strategies.
The DILG stressed that existing plans must be audited and updated to confront gaps uncovered by the tremors. In particular, LGUs are urged to:
- Conduct swift structural assessments of public and residential buildings, especially those showing cracks or distortion.
- Expedite the issuance of permits for reconstruction and repair work compliant with safety standards.
- Ensure evacuation centers and public buildings are structurally sound and safe for use during emergencies.
- Prepare and distribute “go bags” and emergency kits, and promote regular earthquake drills and community awareness campaigns.
- Coordinate at the regional level to form consolidated preparedness frameworks for earthquake and tsunami risks.
The directive aligns with the broader push by national agencies to strengthen disaster resilience, especially in high-risk zones. LGUs will be monitored and supported to ensure that the improvements are meaningful, not merely procedural.