Yamsuan bill banks on regionalizing disaster-related info to save lives
At A Glance
- Bicol Saro Party-list Rep. Brian Raymund Yamsuan has filed a bill seeking to regionalize emergency or disaster-related information in a bid to save Filipino lives.
- The translation of information into regional languages or dialects should consider the geographical location of the affected communities and the intended recipients, says House Bill (HB) No.9947.
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Regionalizing emergency or disaster-related information to be disseminated by the State will go a long way in saving Filipino lives.
That is essentially the gist of House Bill (HB) No.9947, which has been filed by Bicol Saro Party-list Rep. Brian Raymund Yamsuan in the current 19th Congress.
“Fast and accurate information is the most valuable tool during times of emergencies. But we need to make sure that information is properly communicated and understood well,” Yamsuan said.
“The way to do this is communicate in simple, clear language by translating advisories and announcements often broadcast or written in English and Filipino to Bicolano, and other appropriate regional languages. When information is available and conveyed in a language that people comprehend, they can respond more quickly, potentially saving lives and properties, and mitigating overall damage,” he explained.
Yamsuan filed the bill in time for the commemoration of International Mother Language Day on Feb. 21. It is observed every year to promote multilingualism and cultural diversity.
The full title of the measure reads, "An Act requiring disaster-related information to be stated in accessible language to ensure public understanding thereof to protect public health and safety."
HB No.9947 makes regionalization a requirement for all national and local government offices tasked to communicate advisories, announcements and other forms of information on disasters and emergencies.
The translation of information into regional languages or dialects should consider the geographical location of the affected communities and the intended recipients.
“As much as practicable, such disaster-related information shall be issued and disseminated using plain language and devoid of scientific jargon or technical terminologies,” and should be “disseminated as widely as possible through all available media,” the bill also states.