The Office of Civil Defense (OCD) is pushing for the strict implementation of the provisions of the National Building Code relating to the prohibition on the construction of any structures in areas that would be declared as danger zones for strong earthquakes.

OCD administrator Ariel F. Nepomuceno admitted that while the earthquake safety measures are stipulated in the National Building Code, the problem is the assurance that they are being strictly enforced especially at the local level. 

“We have sufficient laws in place regarding the building code, but the challenge lies in their implementation. While safety tips and earthquake drills are vital for promoting disaster resilience, their effectiveness diminishes if the structures in which people reside are inadequately built,” said Nepomuceno. 

He said the strict enforcement is specifically important in Metro Manila amid assessments and analyses of experts that 30,000 to 50,000 people would die in the metropolis should a 7.2 magnitude quake hit the nation’s capital.

The strong quake is referred to as the Big One.

In previous interviews, Nepomuceno has expressed concern that the Philippines is currently not adequately prepared for the Big One.  

He pointed out that the West Valley Fault, which has not experienced a major earthquake since 1658—366 years ago—is due for movement. 

Several earthquake safety measures were implemented since the time of presidents Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo and Noynoy Aquino, including the marking of areas considered as quake danger zones in Metro Manila.

The identification and awareness campaign for disaster-prone areas appeared to have been set aside since then.

And Nepomuceno wants to initiate critical steps, especially to mitigate the impact of the Big One.

“The ‘duck, cover, and hold’ exercise is important, but we must also adopt proactive measures. This approach is reactive; we need to ensure that our buildings and facilities can withstand significant earthquakes,” said Nepomuceno.

“We must avoid constructing houses in prohibited or restricted areas. These zones are identified based on scientific assessments of vulnerability and risk factors,” he added.