The House of Representatives has approved on third and final reading the proposed Philippine Building Act (PBA), one of the pet measures of Surigao del Sur 1st district Rep. Romeo Momo Sr. in the 20th Congress.

The PBA--given final approval after nominal voting in plenary Monday, Dec. 15--aims to ensure the stability of newly proposed or existing infrastructure against natural calamities and multiple hazards, among others.

The measure, which seeks to revise the 1977 National Building Code of the Philippines (NBCP), ensures the standardization of building design, location, materials, and safety measures against natural calamities.

The PBA also achieved third reading passage during the previous 19th Congress. This helped expedite its approval in the first regular session of the current Congress.

Momo is the chairman of the House Committee on Public Works and Highways. A common point of discussion in the panel has been the possible effects of "The Big One" earthquake if and when it strikes Metro Manila.

“Do we wait for it to happen or do we act now while we still can? The [PBA] will set the wheels in motion, ensuring that our buildings, private and public, can withstand the power of a 7.2-magnitude earthquake,” Momo said earlier this year during the 19th Congress.

A specific provision in the proposed PBA mandates for a structural review of buildings every 15 years.

Under the PBA, buildings will follow a classification system according to their fire resistance rating, occupancy, and permitting process.

It would also create a list of general requirements for the standardization of location and zoning, design, construction, materials, permits and licenses, and occupancy, maintenance, and abatement.

The 20th Congress only began in June 2025.

Another Momo measure that was advanced in plenary was the proposed the National Water Resources Management Act. It was approved on second reading during Monday's session.

The measure will establish the Department of Water Resources and Water Regulatory Commission, which the lawmaker said will oversee the sustainable management of the country’s water resources and ensure their optimal use with the goal of achieving universal access to clean, adequate, and stable water supply, sanitation, and sewage services.

Momo, who has long advocated for policies that strengthen communities and protect vital resources, expressed his gratitude to President Marcos for prioritizing his two proposed laws.

"These measures are a step forward to progress and will ensure that critical agencies have the tools, oversight, and support they need to address some of the public’s most pressing needs effectively,” the Mindanaoan said.

"As these measures move forward, I remain committed to working with colleagues on both sides of the aisle, stakeholders, and community leaders to ensure the final legislation reflects practical solutions and real-world needs,” he added.