The Department of Public Works and Highways in Caraga (DPWH-13) announced the completion of a new multi-purpose building that can also be used as an evacuation center in times of disasters and calamities for the people of Cortes, Surigao del Sur.

In a statement on Saturday, DPWH-13 director Pol delos Santos said the newly completed multi-purpose building will also serve as a gymnasium where different important events of the town can be held.

“The gym-like evacuation center complies with the order of President Rodrigo R. Duterte to design and build gymnasiums that will serve as shelter to evacuees during calamities,” delos Santos said.

He added that the building was handed over to Cortes municipality last July 23.

He said the construction of the building has a total budget of PHP34.5 million and is equipped with facilities such as male and female toilets and baths, kitchen, a spacious gym, among others.

“This building will greatly improve the preparedness and response capability of Cortes, Surigao del Sur in times of disasters and emergencies,” delos Santos said.

He said residents in 12 barangays, especially those in the coastal areas, experience evacuations during typhoons.

With the completion of the building, residents, in times of calamities, will have a safe place to stay, delos Santos said.

“President Duterte wants to relieve our schools from being used as evacuation centers. He wants to establish facilities that will help alleviate the suffering of the people and prevent temporary closure of classes in the wake of catastrophic events,” he said. (PNA)