THE Cebu City Council has approved the purchase of P57.2 million worth of emergency, disaster and medical equipment.

“In order to improve disaster preparedness and response capabilities, the need to procure early warning systems, preparedness equipment and other tools for natural and man-made calamities is necessary,” said Cebu City councilor Dave Tumulak, in his resolution.

Tumulak sponsored the resolution allowing the charging of the P57.2 million from the capital outlay of the Local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Fund for this year.

The Cebu City Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office also approved a resolution on the purchase of the equipment.

Of the P57.2 million, P13 million will be used to buy two new water tankers, P12 million for one new rescue vehicle with equipment, P10 million for one new fire truck, P7 million for two Hi-Ace ambulances with equipment and P3 million for the purchase of 40 fire hose nozzle.

It also include the purchase of five units of cardiac monitor with defibrillator worth P2.5 million, five ambulance stretcher worth P1.75 million, three UHF/FM Radio Digital Repeater System worth P1.65 million, 50 units of collapsible tents worth P1.5 million and 150 units of modular evacuation tents worth P1.42 million, among others.

Acting City Treasurer Arlene Rentuza also certified that there is enough funds to purchase the new equipment. (RVC)