The call to establish permanent evacuation centers in local government units has been revived in the Senate amid the country’s frequent typhoons.
Senator Win Gatchalian underscored the need for dedicated, disaster-resilient shelters, especially in areas repeatedly struck by severe weather.
“Kailangang magkaroon ng permanenteng evacuation center lalo na ang mga lugar na laging napupuruhan ng mga bagyo at iba pang kalamidad para masiguro ang kaligtasan ng ating mga kababayan,” Gatchalian said after meeting families in Catanduanes who lost their homes to recent storms.
The senator issued the appeal while distributing ₱6.072 million worth of financial and food assistance to affected communities. He was joined by his brother, Valenzuela City Mayor Wes Gatchalian, in delivering support to residents.
One of the hardest-hit towns they visited was Baras, where thousands were displaced after Super Typhoon Uwan devastated coastal areas, destroying houses and livelihoods. The group also conducted assessments and extended aid in Virac, Caramoan, Viga, San Andres, Bato, Gigmoto, Pandan, and San Miguel.