OBO intensifies building code implementation
Due to the increasing construction of buildings in the City of Koronadal, the Office of the Building Official (OBO) has now intensified the implementation of the building code.
OBO Head Engr. Charlie B. Laput, in an interview, said that previously, they steered checking when there was only an application for building construction filed to their office, but at this time, apart from assessment, the OBO also does consistent supervision to ensure a safer community.
Engr. Laput explained that strict implementation of the building code is of great necessity to keep the structure safe, to follow the standard requirements set by the National Building Code Development Office (NBCDO), and most importantly to protect the lives of the occupants inside the building. “π°π ππ π ππππππ ππ πππππππ ππππ πππ π ππππ, ππππ πππ π πππππππππ πππ πππππ πππ πππ ππππ πππππππππ ππ πππππ πππ πππ π,” Laput remarked.
Meanwhile, the general requirements of the building code comprise a setback of three (3) meters for the residential structure and a minimum of five (5) meters setback and the accessibility of a parking area for each commercial establishment to be built.
Generally, the setback will serve as a buffer or safe zone for every infrastructure regardless of the type of the building to be erected while parking space for business facilities is also required to prevent parking of vehicles at the roadside which usually led to traffic congestion.
Nonetheless, Engr. Laput acknowledged that enforcing the building code in the city is challenging since many sizable buildings were already existed before the said law was carried through, however their office continues conducting information and education campaign in understanding the importance of the law.
The implementation of the building code was first assigned to the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Region XII, which was later transferred to the local government unit.