MANILA, Philippines — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Friday enacted two laws aimed at enhancing government support for families and students impacted by disasters. 

In a ceremony at Malacañan Palace, Marcos signed the Ligtas Pinoy Centers Act and the Student Loan Payment Moratorium During Disasters and Emergencies Act

The Ligtas Pinoy Centers Act establishes permanent evacuation centers engineered to endure typhoon winds of up to 300 kilometers per hour and seismic activity as strong as magnitude 8.0, according to the Malacañan Palace.

“We need to ensure that the evacuation centers sufficiently respond to the needs of our people affected by calamities and other such emergencies,” Marcos said in his speech.

The chief executive said that investing in climate-resilient facilities is essential to safeguard lives and empower local governments to effectively manage disaster risks.

Following the signing of the law, Marcos assured the Department of Education that schools will soon be dedicated exclusively to learning.

Marcos directed the Department of Public Works and Highways to prioritize the swift construction of evacuation centers in key local government units, ensuring adherence to established standards.

Malacañang also said the passage of the Student Loan Payment Moratorium During Disasters and Emergencies Act, will soon provide “financial relief” to students in areas declared under a state of calamity.

The law allows the suspension of loan repayments for higher education and technical-vocational training programs during and after emergencies, according to the Palace.

“The benevolence of this law allows the disaster-affected students and their families to have a breathing space as they recuperate and rebuild their lives,” Marcos said.

The president directed the Commission on Higher Education and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority to help students and make sure financial problems don’t stop them from finishing their education.