ISABELA CITY, Basilan (PIA) –The City Government of Isabela de Basilan opened its second stand-alone evacuation center, a multipurpose facility built in partnership with the Office of Civil Defense (OCD)-9 and Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH)-9.
The center, located in Barangay Baluno, can accommodate 106 families or 530 individuals during crises. It was constructed at a cost of P34,694,521.35 and covers an area of 1,445 square meters.
The said project, funded by OCD-9 and DPWH-9, boasts a comprehensive range of amenities, including an administrative office, storage rooms, consultation rooms, play areas, and more. With a capacity to accommodate 106 families or 530 individuals, this multipurpose center is designed to provide comfort and support during times of crisis.
In addition, the facility’s impressive features also include a water tank, designated area for livestock, and prepositioned goods from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) in its storage room. The PWD-friendly restrooms and breastfeeding rooms can also cater to the diverse needs of evacuees.
At the inauguration ceremony, Regional Director Ramon M. Ochotorena of the OCD-9 commended the partnership between government agencies, describing the evacuation center as a “beacon of hope” for families during disasters. He urged the LGU to maintain and manage the facility with dedication, ensuring its role in enhancing the community’s disaster resilience.
“We encourage local government units to take and manage this structure so that it will last for several years,” he said.
Meanwhile, Mayor Sitti Djalia Turabin-Hataman emphasized the importance of being prepared for future challenges. She reflected on the importance of such projects, noting that while she hopes that residents would never use it, it is crucial to be prepared. She also emphasized that the evacuation center symbolizes Isabela City’s growing capability to face and prepare for future challenges.
“Simbolo ito ng ating kahandaan dito sa Isabela City de Basilan sa panahon ng kalamidad,” Mayor Turabin-Hataman stressed.
The first evacuation center in Isabela City is located at barangay Sumagdang and can accommodate around 116 families.
The Isabeleños hoped that as Isabela City continues to grow and develop with the new evacuation center poised to make a significant difference in the lives of its residents during times of crisis. (EDT/NDR/PIA Basilan with reports from City Government of Isabela de Basilan)
