MARCH 17, 2011
MMDA Chairman Contemplates Removing Giant EDSA Billboards as Quake Hazards
Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) Chairman Francis Tolentino is considering the option of dismantling billboards along EDSA which are considered as earthquake hazards.
"It is well-accepted that billboards, to withstand earthquakes and other natural disasters must be well-anchored and have sufficient lateral support," said the Chairman, citing a US Federal Emergency Management Agency Manual on Earthquake Hazard Mitigation for Non-Structural Elements published in 2005.
The MMDA head cited the example of Typhoon Milenyo which hit Metro Manila in 2006, toppling trees and billboards which led to loss of lives and property.
"Poorly constructed billboards are hazardous. They are public nuisances that should be abated. We will review the integrity of these structures and if they fail to comply with legal standards, we will dismantle," he added.
