PRESIDENT Rodrigo Duterte has signed two new executive orders aimed at strengthening government’s rehabilitation and recovery efforts after a disaster.
Executive Order (EO) 120 creates the Build Back Better Task Force, which will expedite and lead the preparation, implementation and monitoring of a post-disaster rehabilitation and recovery program for typhoon-affected areas.
EO 119 establishes a National Government Administrative Center (NGAC) in New Clark City in Capas, Tarlac that will serve as alternative administrative and recovery center outside the National Capital Region.
Under EO 120, the Build Back Better Task Force will serve as the overall and central body to ensure whole-of-government implementation and monitoring of post-disaster rehabilitation and recovery efforts.
It will ensure availability and adequacy of key lifelines such as basic needs, medical services, utilities and transportation immediately after the typhoon.
The task force will also rebuild or repair houses to be more resilient to hazards and build safer sites for housing under the township approach.
It will be chaired by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and co-chaired by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH).
Roque said the leadership role was given to DENR and DPWH in recognition of their respective mandates and core competence.
The Office of the President retains its oversight and the task force shall be regularly reporting to the President, through the Executive Secretary.
Under EO 119, Roque said all departments, bureaus, offices and agencies under the Executive Branch are directed to establish satellite or field offices at the NGAC in New Clark City.
Existing regional, satellite or field offices near the area may just transfer to the NGAC.
Roque said establishment of the offices will be done in phases and by clusters that will be determined by the National Disaster Risk and Reduction Management Council. (Marites Villamor-Ilano/SunStar Philippines)