Seven multi-purpose buildings which will also serve as evacuation centers will soon rise in strategic areas in Iloilo City as part of efforts on climate change adaptation.

In an interview on Monday, Iloilo City Lone District Rep. Julienne Baronda said they expect the projects’ completion next year.

Baronda’s office, with the help of several senators and House Speaker Martin Romualdez, ensured the PHP350 million funding for the project through the Department of Public Works and Highways.

“This is one of our initiatives so that in times of calamities we have our evacuation centers. We don’t want to use our schools so we are building right now seven centers in Iloilo City,” she said, adding that construction is ongoing in Jaro, City Proper and Lapuz districts.

They are one of a kind because the green building concept is included with the provision of a solar-powered water system, Baronda said.

The ground floor will be used as a multi-purpose building for economic enterprises and the second story will serve as an evacuation center.

“It is complete with washroom, restroom, kitchen, and offices,” she said.

The buildings will be managed by the host barangay whose officials will be trained by the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority on entrepreneurship so they can offer the facility as a venue for various occasions. (PNA)