Tolentino: Amend the Building Code to prepare for strong earthquake
Senator Francis Tolentino
It is time to amend Republic Act No. 6541 or the National Building Code (NBC), according to Senate Majority Leader Francis “Tol” Tolentino.
Tolentino mentioned this following the recent 7.7 magnitude earthquake that shook Myanmar and extended to Thailand.
The reelectionist senator emphasized the need to update certain provisions of the NBC to keep up with the times.
As the candidate of the Alyansa Para sa Bagong Pilipinas explained, the law has been in effect since 1977, or nearly five decades ago.
Tolentino pointed out that many things have changed, from building planning to construction methods and structures.
Tolentino earlier said that there is also a need to add more evacuation areas due to the growing number of structures.
According to experts, if “The Big One” strikes—specifically if the West Valley Fault triggers a 7.2 magnitude quake—30,000 to 50,000 people could die.
In addition, around 12 percent of buildings could collapse or sustain severe damage.
During his time as chairman of the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority, Tolentino launched Oplan Metro Yakal, a more effective system for earthquake disaster preparedness, response, and evacuation planning.
