The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) acknowledged that many Filipinos may be experiencing “disaster fatigue” following successive calamities such as tropical cyclones, volcanic activity, and strong earthquakes, but urged the public to focus on preparedness rather than fear.

“Naiintindihan ko ang ating mga kababayan kasi nagkakaroon na tayo ng disaster fatigue (I understand our fellow Filipinos because we are already experiencing disaster fatigue),” Phivolcs Director Dr. Teresito Bacolcol said during a press conference on Friday, Oct. 10.

Bacolcol clarified that the series of strong earthquakes that struck Cebu on Sept. 30, La Union on Oct. 9, and Davao Oriental on Oct. 10 were not connected, as they were caused by different active faults and trenches.

In recent weeks, the country has also been battered by back-to-back tropical cyclones, Marisol, Nando, Opong, and Paolo.

Meanwhile, Taal Volcano had a minor phreatomagmatic eruption on Oct. 1 that generated a 2,500-meter-high plume.

“Huwag po silang matakot. Instead na matakot ‘yung ating mga kababayan, they have to prepare for it (People should not be afraid. Instead of being afraid, they have to prepare for it),” he said.

Bacolcol reminded the public that the Philippines’ location in the Pacific Ring of Fire naturally exposes it to earthquakes and volcanic eruptions.

“We have to accept our reality that we're part of the Pacific Ring of Fire, and every now and then we will be jolted by earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and tsunamis,” he said.

“So instead of panicking, instead na nagpapadala tayo sa takot, we have to prepare (Instead of panicking or giving in to fear, we have to prepare),” he added.

He encouraged Filipinos to channel their anxiety into practical readiness, through earthquake drills, emergency kits, and awareness of evacuation procedures.

“These events remind us that preparedness saves lives. We cannot prevent earthquakes, but we can lessen their impact,” he said.

Bacolcol added that public awareness and community readiness could minimize casualties during major natural events.