The Office of Civil Defense in Zamboanga Peninsula (OCD-9) is moving forward with plans to construct a regional evacuation center along the east coast of Zamboanga City. The facility aims to bolster disaster preparedness and provide a dedicated shelter for residents affected by natural calamities.
Meeting Highlights Proposed Sites
Lawyer Ruel Halanes, OCD-9 regional director, discussed the proposal during a meeting on Tuesday, June 30, 2026, with the chief of staff and secretary to Mayor Celso Lobregat at City Hall. Halanes emphasized the importance of close coordination with the City Government of Zamboanga and other concerned agencies in the planning and implementation of the project.
During the meeting, Halanes identified three villages under consideration for the facility: Sangali, Bunguiao, and Lubigan. Additional sites will be evaluated after further assessment by all involved agencies.
Facility Specifications and Purpose
Halanes said the OCD-9 is proposing the development of a 3,000-square meter evacuation center that will serve as a temporary shelter for affected communities across Zamboanga Peninsula during emergencies. The center is intended to accommodate families displaced by earthquakes, typhoons, and other disasters.
Lobregat welcomed the proposal, citing the need to strengthen disaster resilience and emergency response capacity in Zamboanga City. He noted that recent earthquakes affecting parts of Mindanao have heightened the urgency for such infrastructure.
Mayor's Commitment and Regulatory Compliance
Lobregat underscored Mayor Khymer Olaso's commitment to advancing programs that improve the city's readiness for emergencies. He also stressed the importance of ensuring that the proposed project complies with existing national regulations and aligns with local development plans.
The project is still in the planning stage, with further assessments and evaluations required before a final site is selected. OCD-9 and the City Government will continue to collaborate on the initiative.
