AID TO EARTHQUAKE-HIT LOCALITIES SENT

THE Pangasinan provincial government has approved financial assistance to several local government units (LGUs) affected by recent earthquakes in various parts of the country through its Tulong Kapatid Program, Vice Governor Mark Ronald Lambino said.

Five LGUs received P1 million each following the passage of five resolutions by the Sangguniang, including Bogo City in Cebu, the province of Cagayan, Calayan Island in Cagayan, Masbate province in Bicol Region, and Batanes.

“This is our way of extending solidarity to our fellow provinces. There’s no set formula or requirement for giving help. Once we see the need and we have the capacity, we give voluntarily,” Lambino said.

The money came from the province’s Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (DRRM) Fund, which still had a sufficient amount before the year’s end.

Lambino said the Pangasinan DRRM Office continues to assess possible further assistance that the province can extend to other LGUs, such as those areas affected by the twin earthquakes that struck Manay, Davao Oriental, on October 10.

Meanwhile, in light of this series of earthquakes across the country, Lambino said the provincial government remains vigilant and committed to maintaining readiness.

He cited Pangasinan’s experience during the 1990 Luzon earthquake, saying it taught valuable lessons on the province’s vulnerability to strong tremors, particularly in areas affected by liquefaction.

“Pangasinan recognizes it is a high-risk area because of active fault lines, including the Zambales Fault,” he said. “We ensure that buildings comply with the National Building Code and that no structures are built in critical areas.”

He added that the Provincial Engineering Office conducts regular inspections of bridges, roads, and public buildings to ensure structural integrity.

While the calamity fund is governed by strict budgetary rules, Lambino said this does not prevent the province from creating additional programs for disaster preparedness.

He also reminded residents to take part in regular earthquake drills and maintain family emergency plans, including communication and meeting points in case of a disaster. (Eva Visperas)