Evacuation centers law greenlighted

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Friday signed into law two measures aimed at providing relief to disaster victims and students.

Republic Act 12076, the Ligtas Pinoy Centers Act, mandates the construction of permanent, storm-resilient evacuation centers nationwide. These centers will be equipped with essential facilities and prioritize high-risk areas.

“Evacuation centers should be as strong as the people’s resolve,” Marcos said, emphasizing the need for sturdy shelters during calamities.

The president also signed Republic Act 12077, the Student Loan Payment Moratorium During Disasters and Emergencies Act. This law allows students in calamity-declared areas to defer loan payments for higher education and technical-vocational training programs without penalties or interest.

Marcos urged the Commission on Higher Education and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority to assist affected students and ensure they can continue their education.