Senator Bam Aquino is set to file a resolution to assess the structural integrity and earthquake readiness of public school buildings nationwide, following recent tremors in various regions.
“Mahalagang malaman kung gaano kahanda at gaano katibay ang ating mga paaralan sa pagtama ng malalakas na lindol para sa kaligtasan ng mga estudyante, mga guro, mga magulang, at iba pang mga nagtatrabaho sa mga paaralan,” he said.
Aquino raised concerns after former DPWH Assistant District Engineer Brice Hernandez admitted that infrastructure projects in Bulacan since 2019, including classrooms, were substandard.
“Kapag ang pondo sa mga paaralan ay kinurakot at binudol, pinapahamak ang mga estudyante sa bagyo at lindol. Huwag nating isugal ang buhay ng ating mga kababayan Mas mabuting matiyak ang kahandaan at kaligtasan ng ating mga school building laban sa mga pagyanig,” according to him.
He plans to push for additional funding to inspect and assess public school buildings and identify necessary repairs.
The proposed inquiry will also review damage from recent quakes and how agencies are responding to ensure affected schools can safely reopen. It will cover safety protocols such as regular inspections, earthquake drills, evacuation plans, and the provision of emergency kits.
“Ang ating mga paaralan ay dapat maging ligtas na kanlungan sa oras ng sakuna, hindi karagdagang panganib. Panahon na para tiyaking matatag at handa ang ating mga estudyante at mga guro sakaling tumama ang malakas na lindol,” said Aquino.IMT
