The eruption of Kanlaon Volcano on Dec. 9 is another reminder of the importance of disaster preparedness, specifically on the need for established and well-designed evacuation centers. Recent reports said that about 54,000 persons living within the four-to-six kilometer danger zone have been evacuated after the volcano’s eruption which produced a “voluminous plume that rapidly rose to 4,000 meters above the vent.” Ashfall was reported over a wide area west of the volcano.

This is another disaster which comes even before we have completely addressed the problems caused by six tropical cyclones that blew into the country last October to November, causing extensive damage to agriculture and property, and resulting in loss of lives.

The Philippines, located in the so-called typhoon belt, is visited by an average of 20 tropical cyclones a year, some of them bringing rains and winds of super typhoon category. Our country also sits on the “ring of fire” with eruptions a possibility, even from inactive volcanoes.

The storms, floods, Kanlaon eruption, and the past phreatic eruptions of other volcanoes like Taal and Mayon, highlight the urgent need for robust disaster preparedness and response systems. The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council and various private sectors groups continue to upgrade disaster preparedness measures, but well-designed and permanent evacuation centers still need to be established.

Last week, President Marcos signed two important laws —the Ligtas Pinoy Centers Act (Republic Act 12076) and the Student Loan Payment Moratorium During Disasters and Emergencies Act (Republic Act 12077)— which is a timely response to the escalating climate and disaster challenges the nation faces.

The Ligtas Pinoy Centers Act mandates the establishment of climate-resilient evacuation centers in every municipality and city. These centers are designed to withstand typhoon winds of up to 300 kilometers per hour and seismic activity of up to magnitude 8. By creating dedicated evacuation facilities, the law seeks to reduce the long-standing reliance on public schools, ensuring these institutions can focus solely on education even during crises. This measure addresses a critical gap in disaster management, offering safer and more dignified shelters for evacuees.

Meanwhile, Republic Act 12077 introduces a moratorium on student loan repayments during officially declared disasters. This provision offers financial relief to disaster-affected students and their families, suspending payments without penalties or interest. It ensures that students can continue their education without the added burden of financial stress during recovery periods.

These laws primarily benefit low-income communities, which are disproportionately affected by disasters. Dedicated evacuation centers mean safer, more equipped spaces for displaced families, reducing their vulnerability during calamities. Similarly, the student loan moratorium alleviates financial pressures on struggling families, helping them prioritize basic needs while maintaining access to education.

The timing of these laws underscores the urgency of addressing climate-related challenges in the Philippines. With millions vulnerable to the impacts of natural disasters, the enactment of these measures is a step toward a safer, more resilient society. By focusing on both immediate needs and long-term recovery, these laws exemplify a proactive approach to safeguarding the nation’s future.

Their success will depend on swift implementation and sustained government commitment to disaster preparedness and education.