TACLOBAN CITY, (PNA) — The Dept. of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) here has ordered for an “immediate assessment” of all infrastructures in Eastern Visayas following the 7.2 magnitude earthquake that severely affected Bohol and Cebu and even felt in some parts of this region.
DPWH regional director Rolando Asis in a memorandum to all district engineers urged them to determine “whether or not the structures need immediate retrofitting or rehabilitation” and if they are “still structurally safe for occupancy.”
The structures to be covered include among others bridges, hospitals, school buildings and churches.
“Submit report not later than Nov. 13,” he stated.
In an initial report submitted earlier by Asis to the central office, he said that the quake caused no damage to bridges and other infrastructures in the region.
However, as per its record, there are at least 171 public buildings and 257 bridges that are prone to damages if a strong quake would occur in the region.
Already the office has recommended the urgent repair of 84 structures composed of 71 classrooms, six hospitals and other health facilities, two health centers, and five government offices.
Further, 160 bridges need major repair, 51 should be retrofitted and 46 for reconstruction.