Solon: Replace Aquino EO on class suspension
By PNA and Charissa M. Luci
A party-list lawmaker said yesterday that the 2012 executive order on the suspension of classes and work in government offices due to typhoons and other calamities is already obsolete and must be replaced.
1-Ang Edukasyon party-list Rep. Salvador Belaro Jr. said EO No. 66, Series 2012 signed by President Benigno S. Aquino III is limited only to public storm warning signals, which have proven to be “inadequate” and “insufficient” indicators for suspension of classes or work.
“EO 66 is in dire need of replacement. It is obsolete and out of touch with the current realities and the emerging future. The effects of storms are no longer what they used to be. Storms these days are more powerful and destructive,” Belaro said.
He recommended that Malacañang use House Bill 6072 as a template for a new, updated, upgraded, and more useful EO on suspension of classes and work.
He said his bill factors in not just storms and floods, but also landslides, earthquakes, tsunami, storm surge, toxic chemical spills, fire, active shooter situations, hostage-taking, kidnapping, banditry, terrorism, and state of emergency.