Iloilo city: The PHP80 million People's Center constructed in Barangay San Isidro in Jaro District significantly enhances the disaster preparedness capabilities of the Ilonggo community. The facility was officially inaugurated on Tuesday, attended by Senator Sherwin Gatchalian and Iloilo City Lone District Representative Julienne Baronda, who played a crucial role in securing funding for the project.

According to Philippines News Agency, the People's Center features evacuation rooms with partitions, a kitchen and food preparation area, gender-separated comfort rooms, shower facilities, and storage for relief goods and emergency supplies. It also includes a hall for sports and public functions, a public safety sound system, a solar power system, and a rainwater harvesting tank. The building is designed to support community activities and disaster preparedness training.

Representative Baronda expressed hope that the People's Center will serve not only Barangay San Isidro but also neighboring barangays during calamities and disasters. Senator Gatchalian mentioned plans to establish similar projects in other parts of the city, suggesting that this facility will be a model for future People Centers.

Civil Defense regional director for Western Visayas, Raul Fernandez, emphasized the importance of the evacuation center, especially in Iloilo City, due to the limited availability of standard evacuation spaces. He commended Representative Baronda for her initiative in establishing this crucial infrastructure in a densely populated area, highlighting its role in boosting disaster preparedness.