IT SEEMS that earthquakes have become regular occurrences particularly in the southern part of Luzon and some parts of Mindanao. For the last couple of weeks, there have been tremors experienced by some, felt by others and recorded by the government particularly the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology or the Phivolcs.
rAs of this writing, there are still aftershocks that are recorded much less in magnitude from that of the magnitude 6 that pummeled Batangas and 6.7-magnitude that rocked Surigao that was felt in their neighboring provinces.
The shaking of the ground has been said to be tectonic in origin or the “grinding” of the earth’s plates located far under the ground. The Phivolcs has crossed out any volcano that is on the brink of eruption or having any volcanic activity or sorts.
rThe swarm of earthquakes has again aroused the idea of the “big one” happening soon as the West Valley fault traversing west of Metro Manila is said to be ripe for a major earthquake that could kill or injure tens of thousands and incur great damage to structures.
The “big one” is said to occur with a magnitude 7.2 that will be caused by the 100-kilometer fault that traverses parts of Bulacan through Quezon City, Marikina, Makati, Pasig, Taguig and Muntinlupa in Metro Manila and some towns in Laguna and Cavite.
As per history, the West Valley fault moves every 400 years and the last major earthquake generated by the said fault was in 1658 or 357 years ago.
rShould the big one happen, major devastations shall be the result of such in terms of damage to Metro Manila’s high-rise buildings and even low-rise residences. With the said anticipation, the government is doing its best efforts to inform the public and make them aware on what to do if ever the earth will shake.
Since the Phivolcs has made public the possible scenario for the “big one,” constant monitoring of the said fault is made while a number of earthquake drills were held in many parts of Metro Manila and nearby provinces.
The recent earthquakes that rocked Batangas and Surigao are mere reminders that we have to prepare for any eventuality now that the country is experiencing earthquake swarms.
While it is true that we cannot really detect the occurrence of earthquakes as to when, where and what time they will strike, however, we can prepare ourselves on what to do in case of such. Further, we can reinforce structures to make them strong and be able to withstand shakes brought about by the said natural phenomenon.
Aside from the fact that experts have said that the West Valley Fault is already ripe for movement, we can consider the recent earthquakes as reminders and warning that we need to be always ready for earth shakes.
rWe should likewise consider arousing the awareness of the public in terms of disaster preparedness particularly when earthquakes happen.
rSince we cannot predict earthquakes, we can somehow prepare for them. We have to remember that failing to prepare is preparing to fail.
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