STATEMENT ON THE EARTHQUAKE TRAGEDY IN NEW ZEALAND

In the wake of 6.3-magnitude earthquake that struck New Zealand, I called on the Department of Public Works and Highways to intensify its earthquake preparedness inspections not only in Metro Manila but nationwide. The Department must make an immediate but accurate evaluation whether to demolish or retrofit the structures, including roads, airport runways and bridges that will be found unsafe. I will accompany the DPWH in inspecting such edifices to make sure that this matter is prioritized.

Similar tragedy already happened in our country and can happen again anytime. During the past weeks, we have already experienced a series of small-scale earthquake magnitudes in Metro Manila and Southern and Northern Luzon. We must not wait for loss of lives and properties before we act.

Ayusin na natin ang mga mapanganib na istraktura sa lalong madaling panahon. Kailangan dito ang malinaw na plano at agarang implementasyon. Ngunit dapat na beripikahin muna ng DPWH ang kanilang findings bago nila ito isapubliko para maiwasan ang di-kinakailangang pangamba ng taumbayan.