House OKs on 2nd reading bill proposing mandatory nationwide quake, emergency preparedness drill

The House of Representatives on Wednesday approved on second reading the proposed measure mandating the conduct of nationwide simultaneous earthquake and emergency preparedness drills.

In a voice vote, the chamber approved House Bill 9806 or the proposed "Mandatory Nationwide Simultaneous Earthquake and Emergency Preparedness Drill Act."

The measure aims to ensure the safety of the public during earthquakes and other emergencies.

The bill mandates all public and private schools and business establishments, including facilities that handle, store, and transport hazardous materials, to formulate emergency preparedness protocols and to conduct a quarterly earthquake and emergency drill, in coordination with the Office of Civil Defense, the Department of the Interior and Local Government, as well as local government units.

Under the measure, facilities that handle, store, and transport hazardous materials are required to conduct quarterly emergency preparedness drills and nighttime drills at least thrice a year.

It requires that each drill shall include the instructions and practices concerning the proper evacuation of the vehicles and proper containment of hazardous materials in case of releases, accidents, and other hazardous phenomena during transportation.

The Office of Civil Defense, in coordination with the Department of the Interior and Local Government, the Department of Education, and the Commission on Higher Education, is tasked to promulgate the implementing rules and regulations.—AOL, GMA News