Aurora eyes ‘No Build Zone’ ordinance after #UwanPH devastation

The Provincial Government of Aurora is planning to implement a “No Build Zone” ordinance that will impose strict penalties on violators, including barangay officials and private individuals who continue to build in areas deemed vulnerable to natural disasters.

Governor Isidro P. Galban said the proposal was discussed during a meeting of the Provincial Government to finalize agreements and outline rehabilitation steps following the devastation caused by Super Typhoon Uwan.

The meeting, titled Rehabilitation and Recovery Meeting, was held on 11 November 2025, at the New Capitol Building Training Hall in Baler, Aurora.

Also present were Provincial Administrator Shierwin Taay and representatives from the Aurora Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (PDRRMC) Thematic Area IV – Rehabilitation and Recovery Cluster.

The meeting aimed to consolidate plans and actions across various offices to expedite damage assessments, repair facilities, and ensure public safety in affected areas.

Coinciding with the discussion was the implementation of the Preliminary Rapid Damage and Needs Assessment (Pre-RDNA) as a best practice for all Local Government Units (LGUs). This process involves systematically tagging properties as part of preparation and disaster mitigation measures for future calamities.

Participants also agreed to a 72-hour deadline for submitting Rapid Damage and Needs Assessment (RDNA) reports after any calamity. LGUs were directed to coordinate with the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO) and submit detailed reports for Typhoon Uwan, aligned with the Recovery and Rehabilitation Plan 2024–2026, three days after finalizing their Post-Disaster Needs Assessment (PDNA).

The agenda also included discussions on immediate damage and needs analysis, aid distribution, safety and security, and emergency service delivery.

In particular, the Provincial Government ordered the immediate repair and maintenance of hospitals to ensure that essential health services remain uninterrupted.

A directive was also issued requiring the submission of reports detailing the scope and value of hospital damages, including the Health Facilities Enhancement Program (HFEP) report, to the Department of Health (DOH) by 14 November 2025.

Governor Galban said the proposed “No Build Zone” ordinance and coordinated rehabilitation measures are part of Aurora’s long-term effort to strengthen disaster resilience and protect communities from future calamities.