DPWH gets 120 heavy equipment to boost disaster and emergency preparedness program

MANILA: The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) will boost its disaster and emergency preparedness program with the acquisition of some 120 equipment. 

Per the agency, the said heavy-duty machines will be used to improve the response capacity of DPWH in the event of an earthquake as well as natural hazards. The equipment includes large trucks, mixers, road roller compactors, bulldozers, and excavators.  

“With about 120 new equipment to be added to the existing ERETMR (emergency response equipment for transport, mobility restoration) assets of the DPWH across the country, this will not only enhance the capacity to respond in case of a potentially catastrophic earthquake happening in the Greater Metro Manila Area but also other natural hazards nationwide,” commented DPWH Secretary Manuel Bonoan. 

The said heavy-equipment acquisition was done by integrating the World Bank-funded Philippines Seismic Risk Reduction and Resilience Project (PSRRRP) into the agency’s Emergency Preparedness and Response Program. 

Additionally, the DPWH revealed that incorporated in the said integration is a five-year funding for the operation and maintenance of ERETMR, amounting to P461.16 million. The said fund will cover the five-year operation and maintenance of ERETMR materials, supplies, parts, and labor costs.

Photos from Department of Public Works and Highways Facebook page

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