The Baguio City Council has approved on second reading a proposed ordinance to keep essential public services running during calamities, work suspensions and other emergencies, the Philippine News Agency (PNA) reported.
The measure would automatically activate logistical support and a skeleton workforce once a work suspension, state of calamity or other emergency is declared.
“Logistical support, supplies and manpower will be automatically activated upon the declaration of a work suspension, state of calamity, or other emergency,” City Council information officer Jordan Habbiling said Tuesday.
Essential services to continue
Authored by Councilor Van Oliver Dicang, the proposed ordinance defines logistical support as transportation, meals, temporary shelter, protective equipment, health supplies, fuel, repairs and vehicle maintenance for employees carrying out emergency duties.
It also provides for the use of radios, communication facilities and digital platforms to coordinate government response.
The skeleton workforce would include the minimum personnel needed for essential services such as public safety, rescue, medical response, engineering, relief distribution, sanitation and disaster coordination.
Protection for emergency workers
If approved, the measure would allow concerned offices to automatically deploy personnel and resources without separate orders or authorisation.
Aileen Refuerzo, chief information officer of Baguio City said, “While it is automatic for some offices and personnel to be on duty, especially during calamities, a document that provides for this will also protect workers, especially those performing risky tasks,” she said in a phone interview Tuesday.
The proposed ordinance will undergo further legislative action before it can take effect.