Northern Samar map. INQUIRER FILES
TACLOBAN CITY 鈥� The provincial government of Northern Samar is set to build nine evacuation centers in five of its towns.
The construction of these facilities, with a total cost of P81 million as approved by Gov. Edwin Ongchuan, will start after the barangay elections, said John Allen Berbon, provincial information officer.
Release of public funds is prohibited during the election period unless exempted by the Commission on Elections.
Berbon said the provincial capital of Catarman and Biri would get three evacuation centers each, while the municipalities of Lope de Vega, Mapanas, and Bobon would get one each.
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These evacuation centers are expected to minimize casualties from disasters, Berbon said.
The evacuation facilities are to be built on a lot owned by the barangays, with floor area ranging from 256.5 to 690 square meters.
The evacuation centers could accommodate 15 families (75 individuals) to 40 families (at least 200 persons).
Each facility has its own breastfeeding area; clinic; kitchen; generator area; comfort rooms; and storage area.
There will also be a rainwater collector and disaster risk reduction management office.