OLD ISSUES reawaken from slumber in the aftermath of the high magnitude earthquakes that rocked Zambales and Eastern Samar; issues pertaining to the structural integrity of buildings and the laxity of local government units in issuing building permits. Measures were readily taken, like inspections and investigations, but not before lives were claimed, citizens injured and properties damaged.
I am not surprised at the reactive stance taken by our government. I have always advocated for proactive governance. But this is not the case in our country. How many more lives and damage to properties do we have to face before we change the system? A review on the processing of building permits and a deeper investigation into the accountability of government agencies involved should be initiated. These agencies should start scrutinizing the work of contractors as lives depend on the integrity of buildings.
I believe it is primordial for Congress to enact a law that will make contractors and developers accountable for damages brought about by substandard work. I smell corruption underneath the rubble. It was initially reported that the foundation of the supermarket that crumbled was only meant for a two-storey structure but apparently a third and fourth floor made their way vertically and accommodated a storage and a dormitory for employees.
As reports came in, there were more school buildings and government edifices, including an airport and an National Bureau of Investigation building affected by the earthquake. Several experts interviewed on TV speculated that there may have been structural defects on those buildings badly damaged.
We have been conducting drills on earthquake preparedness, but are we really prepared? As stories unfold on national television, I think nobody is prepared. We do not even have enough volunteers to conduct search and rescue operations. Do we even have the tools and equipment? In reaction to the unpredictability of the occurrence of earthquake, Filipinos leave everything onto the hands of the Almighty.
We rely so much on our faith but have we forgotten that God helps those who help themselves?
What are the possible scenarios with high-rise buildings should the “big one” happen? What will be the excuses from people involved in government red tape or scrupulous contractors and developers?