Echiverri said the city engineering office, city building office and fire department have been making the rounds of schools since last month to ensure the safety of the students and teachers.

He said the engineering office is also meeting with teachers to immediately respond to their needs and other matters concerning the school buildings.

The mayor added that the city officials were also inspecting dormitories in the city to ensure that they comply with the building code.

Echiverri has also ordered the conduct of fire and emergency drills in schools to prepare the students and teachers in case of any disaster that might happen.

The mayor advised Division of City Schools Superintendent Dr. Elizabeth Manalo to coordinate with the City Fire Marshall for the conduct of the emergency drills.

The mayor believed preparedness is the best defense against disasters, may it be natural or manmade.

"Karaniwan kasing natataranta ang mga guro at estudyante at maging ang mga empleyado kapag may lindol at sunog kaya sa halip na maging ligtas sila ay dagdag na kapahamakan ang nangyayari," he said.

Echiverri added that students and teachers should also be taught with first aid in case of accidents.