MANILA, Philippines — Amid growing fears of a potential 7.2-magnitude earthquake dubbed the “Big One,” a lawmaker is pushing for the urgent passage of a House bill seeking to strengthen the country’s disaster resilience by overhauling the outdated National Building Code of the Philippines.

House Bill No. 1180, introduced by Bulacan 6th District Representative Salvador A. Pleyto, Sr., seeks to replace the existing National Building Code enacted in 1977 under Presidential Decree No. 1096. 

The proposed measure outlines minimum standards for planning, location, design, construction, occupancy, maintenance, and demolition of buildings to better protect lives and property, and to reduce disaster risks.

According to the lawmaker, the measure is designed to:

• Safeguard life and protect people from injury.
• Ensure the health and well-being of users without harming the environment.
• Protect property from physical damage.
• Reduce and manage hazards, exposures, and vulnerabilities—key elements in minimizing disaster risks such as earthquakes.

The bill was approved by the House in 2023 and subsequently transmitted to the Senate, where it has yet to be deliberated.

“The bill has been pending in the Senate for a year. I’m calling on the President to certify it as urgent so the Senate will be compelled to finally act on it,” Pleyto told Republika News in an exclusive interview.

Pleyto was assigned as an engineer in Region 2 during the 1990 Luzon Earthquake and the June 15, 1991 Pinatubo eruption which killed thousands of people.

Experts warn that if a 7.2 magnitude earthquake, known as “The Big One,” hits the National Capital Region and nearby areas, more than 50,000 people could die, and at least 12 percent of homes could be seriously damaged.

Stronger standards, safer structures

The lawmaker proposes a new classification system for buildings based on fire resistance, use or occupancy, and permitting complexity. It identifies three categories: Simple Structures (e.g., standard residential buildings), Special Structures (those with unique size, span, or advanced structural methods), and Regular Structures.

To prevent catastrophic failures during disasters, the bill includes specific requirements for:

• Location and Zoning: Sites must be safe, accessible, and not pose a hazard to users.
• Design: Buildings must comply with standards ensuring strength, stability, fire protection, and the safety of occupants. Energy and water efficiency are also mandated.
• Construction: Must follow updated standards including innovative technologies and phased or incremental construction practices.
• Materials: Building components must be safe for users and must not negatively impact the environment.

Focus on older and vulnerable structures

A key feature of the bill is its requirement for assessments of buildings completed in 2005 or earlier—particularly those classified under Special Structures. Building owners must submit certifications of structural stability and fire safety, with provisions for mandatory repairs, retrofits, or demolition if found unsafe.

Accountability and enforcement

The bill strengthens the powers and responsibilities of the National Building Official (NBO) and local authorities. It outlines rules for permits, inspections, and administrative procedures, including penalties for violations and liabilities for building professionals and public officers.

It also mandates the drafting of implementing rules and regulations, with input from stakeholders and technical bodies such as the Building Regulations and Standards Council (BRSC).