Manila: Senators Francis Escudero and Sherwin Gatchalian have called for stronger enforcement of building safety standards and a swift government response following a magnitude 7.4 earthquake that recently jolted Davao Oriental and nearby provinces.

According to Philippines News Agency, Senator Escudero expressed concern and sympathy for families affected by the temblor, which followed a magnitude 6.9 quake that recently struck Cebu province. He urged the government to ensure the safety of evacuees, treat the injured, and inspect infrastructure for possible damage. Escudero emphasized the need for the passage of Senate Bill No. 277 to strengthen the National Building Code, advocating for mandatory structural inspections, accountability for erring officials, and higher penalties for safety standard violations. The proposed measure also requires local government units to maintain updated building inventories, conduct regular audits, and impose sanctions on negligent officials or contractors.

Escudero highlighted that while existing codes include earthquake-resilience guidelines, they are often treated as referrals rather than enforceable standards. He cited a 2004 study by the Japan International Cooperation Agency, the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority, and the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology that warned of massive destruction if a 7.2-magnitude quake hit Metro Manila, stressing the need for enforceable standards and regular checks to ensure public safety.

Meanwhile, Senator Gatchalian urged the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council, local disaster councils, and first responders to act swiftly in rescue and relief operations, and to conduct immediate safety audits of schools, hospitals, and densely populated areas. He emphasized the importance of providing psychosocial support to children, who are often the most vulnerable during such disasters, to help them cope with fear and trauma.