Senator Win Gatchalian is calling on all affected local government units to help ensure the safety of children when volcanoes erupt. Just this morning, Bulusan Volcano spewed ash in a phreatic eruption. Kanlaon Volcano also experienced recent eruptions, with the latest occurring on April 8, 2025.

“Tuwing may nagaganap na sakuna, ang mga bata ang kadalasang lubos na naaapektuhan. Bukod sa pagkaantala ng kanilang pagpasok sa paaralan, sila rin ay nakararanas ng matinding psychological trauma o stress. Kaya’t mahalagang gawin nating prayoridad ang kanilang  kalagayan at kapakanan. Dapat din nating tiyakin na sila ay nasa mga ligtas na espasyo at natatanggap ang mga pangunahing pangangailangan,” said Gatchalian, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Basic Education.

Gatchalian emphasized the importance of ensuring safe and child-friendly spaces for children who need to be evacuated. He also highlighted the need to provide adequate food, water, and medicine, as well as sanitary and hygiene kits. Gatchalian further pointed out the need to ensure learning continuity and deliver psychosocial first aid to affected children. 

Moving forward, Gatchalian pressed the need to realize the goal of the Ligtas Pinoy Centers Act (Republic Act No. 12076), a law that he co-authored and co-sponsored. The law mandates the establishment of evacuation centers in all cities and municipalities nationwide.