Cebu First District Representative Rhea Gullas has expressed strong condemnation over what she describes as a "moryo-moryo" or substandard evacuation center in Argao town, raising serious concerns about disaster preparedness in the region.
Unacceptable Conditions for Disaster Victims
During a recent inspection, Gullas discovered the evacuation facility in a concerning state of disrepair. The center, intended to provide safe shelter during emergencies, reportedly features rusted steel bars and substandard construction that compromise both safety and comfort for potential evacuees.
"This is completely unacceptable," Gullas stated emphatically. "How can we expect our constituents to seek refuge here during typhoons or other calamities when the facility itself poses safety risks?"
Urgent Call for Proper Facilities
The lawmaker has issued a strong demand for immediate action, emphasizing that evacuation centers should meet basic standards of safety and habitability. With the Philippines being frequently hit by natural disasters, proper evacuation facilities are not just a convenience but a necessity.
Gullas highlighted that the current condition of the Argao evacuation center reflects a broader issue in disaster management infrastructure. She stressed that local government units must prioritize the construction and maintenance of adequate evacuation facilities to ensure public safety during emergencies.
Broader Implications for Disaster Preparedness
The discovery has sparked conversations about the overall state of disaster preparedness in Cebu province and across the Philippines. Proper evacuation centers are crucial for protecting vulnerable communities during typhoons, earthquakes, and other natural disasters that frequently affect the archipelago.
Gullas's condemnation serves as a wake-up call for local governments to reassess their disaster response capabilities and ensure that evacuation facilities meet minimum safety standards to protect citizens when they are most vulnerable.
