LAWMAKER CALLS FOR INSPECTION OF HOSPITALS, SCHOOLS, MALLS, BRIDGES

BY KEVIN GALANG

PAMPANGA 1^st district Rep.  Carmelo “Pogi” Lazatin Jr.  urged the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to conduct structural integrity inspections of all schools, hospitals, bridges, pedestrian overpasses, and malls across the district to ensure public safety.

Lazatin issued the request to the DPWH Pampanga 3rd District Engineering Office headed by engineer Arnold Ocampo in coordination with the respective building officials of each locality following the recent series of earthquakes that struck various parts of the country.

“Tapos na po ang inspeksyon sa mga eskwelahan, kaya hiniling din natin sa DPWH, through Secretary Vince Dizon at engineer Arnold Ocampo na magsagawa ng inspeksyon ng structural safety ng mga tulay, footbridge, ospital, at malls sa unang distrito. Makikipagtulungan din po tayo sa mga building official ng bawat lokalidad para isagawa ang inspeksyon,” the lawmaker said.

He emphasized that the move aims to ensure the safety and peace of mind of residents amid growing concerns over the effects of recent seismic activities.

On October 15, Lazatin joined DPWH engineers in inspecting several schools, including Anunas Elementary School in Angeles City, Sta. Ines Elementary School in Mabalacat City, and Dolores National High School in Magalang. 

 The inspections were carried out following his earlier request to check the structural soundness of educational institutions in the district.

DPWH and local officials will continue inspecting schools in the coming days, starting in Angeles City.

On October 13, Lazatin filed House Resolution 368, urging the Department of Education to temporarily suspend face-to-face classes and adopt alternative learning methods such as modular and online classes for at least two weeks.

The resolution seeks to give authorities sufficient time to formulate guidelines on disaster preparedness and emergency response in schools, ensuring that educational institutions are ready for calamities and other emergencies.