Jinggoy bats for construction of multi-purpose gyms in PH for use during disasters
Sen. Jinggoy Estrada is pushing for the construction of a multi-purpose gym in all cities and municipalities across the country to serve as evacuation centers during calamities or disasters.
Estrada filed Senate Bill (SB) No. 465 or the proposed Multipurpose Gym in All Municipalies and Cities Act because classes are disrupted whenever public schools are used as evacuation centers—a common practice during flooding, fire, earthquake, among other calamities.

“Multi-purpose halls or gyms are better options as evacuation centers because they are more spacious and their use do not interfere with important activities. However, not all cities and municipalities have multi-purpose gyms,” Estrada said in his explanatory note.
A similar bill was also filed in the previous congress, but didn't get enacted.
The proposed gym must be accessible to evacuees and to emergency rescue personnel, Estrada said.
It must also be able to withstand wind speeds of at least 155 miles per hour, well-ventilated, and have amenities like shower and toilet, as well as an isolated area that can be used as a clinic for those needing medical attention, he added.
Estrada also said construction of such facility must be prioritized in third to sixth class municipalities.