By Andre Alfonso R. Gutierrez
The Regional Development Council (RDC) in Central Visayas, Philippines, is advocating for the nationwide adoption of a low-cost construction method aimed at improving the resilience of homes in disaster-prone areas across the country.
The Column Footing Grade Beam Monolith (CFGBM) system connects reinforced concrete footings with a continuous plinth beam in a single pour.
Better protection against earthquakes
The design improves structural stability and is reported to withstand earthquakes of up to magnitude 6.5 and wind speeds of 200 kilometres per hour.
Developed through a study commissioned by Habitat for Humanity International, the CFGBM approach is suitable for both new builds and retrofitting existing structures.
It uses locally available materials, including concrete hollow blocks, and is considered affordable and non-invasive.
Argeo Melissimo of the RDC’s Development Administration Committee said the design improves load distribution and stability, making it particularly useful in regions vulnerable to natural hazards.
Engineer Christopher Manug, speaking to the Philippine Information Agency, said the system mitigates common structural issues such as wall shear and floor instability by directing stress into the plinth beam.
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Council urges funding for retrofitting
In addition, the council is appealing to agencies such as the Office of Civil Defense, the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council, and state housing finance institutions to consider funding retrofitting projects that use the technology.
Local officials are also assessing whether the CFGBM system could be incorporated into existing housing initiatives, such as the Balay sa Paglaum programme.
The RDC’s proposal comes amid increasing efforts in the Philippines to promote disaster-resilient infrastructure, particularly in areas frequently affected by typhoons and earthquakes.
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