Authorities in Pangasinan have started inspecting schools, hospitals, and roads to ensure their structural safety following a series of earthquakes recorded in various parts of the country.

The Office of Civil Defense (OCD) in Region 1 ordered the inspections to prevent potential dangers in case of future tremors.

“Kailangan talaga nating bigyang pansin ‘yan kasi hindi man ‘yan nag-create ng problema noong paglindol kung lindol ang pinag-uusapan natin, in the future this may create ‘yung totoong danger, ‘yung pag-check ng mga integrity ng structures around especially ng mga school at hospitals natin,” OCD-1 Director Laurence Mina said.

At the Mangaldan National High School, which has more than 8,000 students, authorities have stopped the use of dilapidated classrooms and prohibited loitering around unsafe buildings to keep students safe.

The school management also conducted its own inspection of classrooms and will request a further assessment from the Municipal Engineering Office.

Assistant Principal Danilo Eden said they conduct regular maintenance checks.

“Mayroon tayong maintenance dito, so bawat classroom tinitingnan natin ‘yung durability, strength at ‘yung security ng mga bata,” he said.

Parents like Editha Sanchez welcomed the safety measures.

“Para safe ang mga bata tapos siyempre hindi rin mag-alala ang mga magulang sa sitwasyon ng mga anak,” Sanchez said.

The OCD reminded the public to stay calm and follow safety protocols during earthquakes, emphasizing the importance of the “duck, cover, and hold” technique.