The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWD) has ordered its officials to implement stricter compliance to laws and policies relative to the imolemwntation of infrastructure projects in high-hazard areas, no build zones, and national protected areas.
In a memorandum released to media on Friday, August 19, DPWH Secretary Manuel M. Bonoan made a stern notice to all service directors, bureau directors, project directors, regional directors, and district engineers to strictly adhere to laws, in view of the department's thrust to implement infrastructure projects that mitigate disaster risk.
Bonoan instructed all offices nationwide to reassess their systems to ensure strict compliance with national law and policies, noting that DPWH projects should not be located in geo-hazard areas and no build zones identified or certified by the Mines and Geo Sciences Bureau (MGSB).
“Implementing offices are expected to be more cognizant of the existing and imminent hazards that should be deliberately considered in all planning and construction activities,” warned Bonoan.
He said that the standards for construction, rehabilitation, improvement or repair of all infrastructure projects in all areas and zones should be consistent with the rules determined by the DPWH.
"Among others, the structural strength and climate and disaster resilience required for infrastructure projects in all areas and zones," Bonoan added.
The DPWH chief also assured that all projects within the National Integrated Protected Area System are implemented and coordinated with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) to reduce biodiversity loss.
Finally, Bonoan emphasized that a l certificate of non-coverage or an Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC) in all government infrastructure projects shall be required prior to the implementation of government infrstructure projects that are covered by the Philippine Environmental Impact Statement System. (Jun Marcos Tadios)