The Department of Public Works and Highways-Davao Region (DPWH-11) has officially handed over a state-of-the-art Regional Evacuation Center (REC) in Mati City, Davao Oriental, marking a significant step forward in the region’s disaster management strategy. The ceremony took place on Friday, November 8, 2024, in Barangay Badas, where the center is strategically located to mitigate risks from tsunamis and floods, as confirmed by safety assessments from the Mines and Geosciences Bureau.
This new facility, valued at PHP46.6 million, is now under the stewardship of Mati’s local government, which will manage its operations during emergencies and community gatherings. Danny Macaubos, president of the Association of Barangay Councilors and a representative of the Mati City government, emphasized the center’s role in bolstering the city’s disaster preparedness. He stated that the REC’s opening is a testament to Mati City’s dedication to enhancing community resilience and proactively addressing the growing threat of natural disasters.
Designed to accommodate up to 530 individuals or approximately 160 families, the center features a versatile open court that serves as both a recreational space and an emergency shelter, resembling a modern gymnasium. Additional amenities include expansive bathrooms, a mess hall, a fully equipped kitchen, a clinic, a prayer room, and an administrative building. A high-capacity water tank is also installed to ensure a reliable water supply during crises.
DPWH-11 highlighted that the Mati REC is part of a broader initiative to build 18 such centers throughout the Davao region, aimed at enhancing the area’s disaster response capabilities. The multi-functional design of the center allows it to serve not only as a refuge during disasters but also as a venue for community events during non-emergency times.