(POLITIKO) Senate President Pro Tempore Jinggoy Estrada has filed a bill that proposes the creation of a nationwide network of food banks that can be tapped during disasters.
“The Philippines is among the most disaster-prone countries in the world, and time and again, we have seen how delays in the delivery of aid exacerbate the suffering of our people,’ said Estrada who filed Senate Bill No. 2860, the proposed Disaster Food Bank and Stockpile Act.
“With the establishment of disaster food banks, we can respond quickly, efficiently, and effectively to the needs of our people, ensuring that no Filipino is left hungry or helpless during a crisis,” he pointed out.
The proposed measure seeks to establish a central repository and supply reserve for food, water, critical medical supplies, and other essential goods such as portable power and light sources, first aid kits, clothing, tents, and communication devices in every province and highly urbanized city across the country for basic and augmentation support during disaster response and recovery operations.
It indicated that the shelf life of the supplies should at least be two years and sufficient for all constituents for at least three weeks following a calamity.
“Disaster preparedness should include maintaining readiness even during normal times, especially in a disaster-prone country like ours,” said Estrada.
“Maraming beses nang nangyari na naantala ang pagpapadala ng relief goods dahil may problema sa accessibility ng mga apektadong lugar,” reminded.
If there are food banks nationwide, the lawmaker said “makakaasa tayo na may maipamamahagi sa ating mga kababayan sa panahon ng kalamidad.”