Senate urged to pass proposed PH Building Act

The National Academy of Science and Technology, Philippines (NAST PHL) on Friday called on the Senate to approve the proposed Philippine Building Act (PBA).

In a statement, NAST PHL pointed out that the passage of PBA will enhance public safety, reduce hazard-related risks, and establish modern construction standards that secure lives and properties.

“The proposed PBA will introduce science-informed assessments, innovations, and resilience-building measures crucial for the nation’s disaster risk reduction and management, safeguarding community well-being,” NAST PHL said.

It added that the PBA “will also mitigate negative impacts, promote stakeholder accountability, and enforce related rights and obligations.”

“This will mark a significant step forward for safer and more sustainable built environments,” NAST PHL said.

The PBA will replace the National Building Code of the Philippines with updates on technical standards and administrative regulations, according to the agency.

The proposed PBA will consolidate Senate Bills 1181, 1467, and 1970, and House Bill 8500 as approved last year by the House of Representatives.

NAST PHL, under the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), is an advisory body to the government and the science community on science and technology matters. —Joviland Rita/KBK, GMA Integrated News