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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider Surviving strong earthquakes: Phivolcs stresses earthquake preparedness

Surviving strong earthquakes: Phivolcs stresses earthquake preparedness

Published Apr 22, 2024 09:21 am

The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) on Monday, April 22, explained the potential impact of strong-magnitude earthquakes that may occur at any time.

Phivolcs records 20 volcanic quakes around Taal
(Phivolcs / Manila Bulletin)

In an interview with the "Ako at Geo" program, Phivolcs Supervising Science Research Specialist Jeffrey Perez mentioned that the “Big One,” earthquake could happen in any region or province of the country, except for Palawan.

The reason for this is that Perez explained that no earthquake sources had been mapped. However, strong earthquakes may still be felt in Palawan, but the epicenter will "not be traced."

READ MORE:

https://mb.com.ph/2024/4/22/many-large-earthquakes-could-strike-various-provinces-regions-in-the-philippines-expert-

He said an intensity 8 (very destructive) earthquake can be so strong that "halos hindi na makatayo" (one can hardly stand).

Aside from people finding it difficult to stand even outdoors, people may experience panic.

He added that many poorly constructed structures and buildings can start to break down or may already be damaged.

This intensity level was felt in Baguio, Dagupan, and La Union during the 1990 Luzon earthquake, and in Bohol Island in 2013.

Similar shaking was experienced in Davao, Davao del Sur, and nearby areas in 2019, and Abra in May 2022.

Landslides and liquefaction are also possible during strong earthquakes as explained by the expert.

Perez mentioned that over 5,000 landslides were mapped after the 2019 quake, with more than 1,000 occurring landslides in Abra.

Aside from this, strong earthquakes can also disrupt lifelines, causing power outages, water shortages, and loss of cellphone signal.

“Fissures and faults rapture may be observed and trees are violently shaken,” Phivolcs added.

Given these mentioned risks, Phivolcs reiterated the importance of earthquake preparedness.

Perez encouraged everyone to participate in earthquake drills to be prepared for a major earthquake.

The Phivolcs noted that when the Big One happened, the country may experience P2.5 trillion worth of economic losses.

It was added that 37,000 fatalities and 605,000 "slight to life-threatening" injuries may be recorded based on the Risk Analysis Project of Phivolcs and the University of the Philippines, Diliman Institute of Civil Engineering (UPD ICE) in 2013.

READ:

https://mb.com.ph/2024/1/22/metro-manila-may-incur-p2-5-trillion-economic-losses-when-big-one-happens-phivolcs

Perez also advised the public to visit faultfinder.phivolcs.dost.gov.ph and hazardhunter.georisk.gov.ph to stay informed.

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