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| PAGCOR unveils a disaster-resilient shelter in Brgy. Polangi, Catarman, housing 6,000, aiding Northern Samar's disaster preparedness. Photo:PIA |
EASTERN VISAYAS – The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) marked a significant milestone by unveiling its 36th Multi-Purpose Evacuation Center (MPEC) in Brgy. Polangi, Catarman, Northern Samar on November 10.
Costing P50 million, the two-story facility can provide temporary shelter for up to 6,000 individuals, catering to residents across 14 barangays who might face displacement during calamities.
Considered the province's most extensive evacuation site, the center is fully equipped with essential amenities, including toilets, kitchens, laundry blocks, and wash areas.
Expressing gratitude, Mayor Francisco Aurelio Rosales lauded PAGCOR for funding this landmark structure. He highlighted the center's significance in supporting the typhoon-prone capital town of Catarman, emphasizing the positive impact on the local community.
Rosales expressed hope for continued collaboration with PAGCOR and looked forward to potential future infrastructure projects facilitated by the corporation.
Eric Balcos, Assistant Vice President of PAGCOR's Community Relations Services Department, emphasized the importance of maintaining the facility, highlighting its uniqueness as a disaster-resilient project initiated by the national government.
In addition, Brgy. Captain Joephel Ogayre of Polangi extended gratitude to PAGCOR for the state-of-the-art facility. Recognizing its role as a protective shelter during natural calamities, Ogayre highlighted its alternative use as a multi-purpose hall when not serving as an evacuation center.
The MPEC not only bolsters disaster preparedness but also offers versatility, serving as a sanctuary during emergencies and a space for community activities during peaceful times. —iTacloban (Source: PIA)