How does the Philippines prepare for powerful earthquakes like the ‘Big One’?

In recent weeks, different parts of the Philippines have been experiencing powerful earthquakes, resulting in deaths and damage. 

The country is no stranger to earthquakes as it is nestled along the Pacific Ring of Fire, where numerous quakes shake various parts of the country. 

But recently, more consecutive powerful quakes shook the country. 

With the damage and loss of lives caused by these earthquakes, how is the government preparing for the Big One? And how should Filipinos prepare for it?

‘The Big One’

For years, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) has been warning about the possibility of “The Big One”. 

The Big One is a potential 7.2 magnitude earthquake that could hit Metro Manila, resulting in tens of thousands of casualties and collapse of infrastructure across the country.

Chances of ‘The Big One’ Increasing

PHIVOLCS Director Teresito Bacolcol stated that the country is likely to experience a major earthquake, as the expected movement of the West Valley Fault draws nearer. 

He explained that the fault last moved in 1658 and tends to produce major earthquakes every 400 to 600 years. 

If the calculations are right, the West Valley Fault may shift in the year 2058, but Bacolcol clarified that it could happen earlier or later than that.

How is the government preparing?

With the recent earthquakes that have shaken the country, it is becoming increasingly important that the country is well-prepared for the possibility of a massive earthquake. 

In an announcement on Tuesday, the Department of Health said all government-run hospitals in the National Capital Region will undergo structural assessments to make sure that the facilities can withstand a magnitude 7.2 earthquake.

Health Secretary Ted Herbosa emphasised that new medical facilities must be constructed to meet standards capable of withstanding major earthquakes.

Herbosa also stated that hospitals across the country will activate their surge capacity to help patients once a major earthquake like the Big One occurs.

Meanwhile, Department of Science and Technology Secretary Renato Solidum Jr said NCR should always prepare for the Big One as the region has too many buildings, adding contractors and experts should make houses, buildings, and other infrastructure earthquake-resistant.

To ensure that the public will know if their houses can withstand an earthquake, DOST-PHIVOLCS has developed an app called “How Safe is my House?”

In April, the Office of the Civil Defense and the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) announced plans to inspect the structural integrity of critical facilities in preparation for the Big One. 

To tackle structural weaknesses nationwide, the DILG said that it will implement the Harmonised Infrastructure Audit – a tool designed to create a unified national standard for evaluating buildings’ resistance to strong earthquakes.

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How should one prepare before an earthquake?

As the government is doing its part to prepare for the Big One, Filipinos must also prepare themselves to ensure their own safety.

In order to prepare for an earthquake, make sure to familiarise yourself with the earthquake hazards in your area. 

Also, know the designated evacuation area in your place. 

Each family member should prepare an emergency supply kit, containing food, water, clothes, first aid kit and other essentials. 

It is also advisable to learn to use a first aid kit, fire extinguishers and switch off circuit breakers.  

What needs to be done during an earthquake?

Taught to Filipinos during emergency drills, it is always important to practice Duck, Cover, and Hold On. 

Drop to your hands and knees, cover your head and neck, and take shelter under a sturdy table or desk if one is available. 

PHIVOLCS Director Renato Solidum also advises people to stay away from walls and windows. 

Be alert to falling objects like shelves, glass, or ceiling fixtures.

If outside your home, move to an open space away from buildings, trees, and power lines. 

If you are in a moving vehicle, stop safely and avoid parking on bridges or near overpasses.

What to do after the shaking?

Once the shaking ends, immediately evacuate the area. 

Remain alert as aftershocks are expected following the initial quake. 

Always stay updated on the current situation by listening to the news and following instructions from the authorities. 

Check yourself and others for injuries and provide first aid if necessary.

Earthquakes can happen without warning, but with a prepared mind and body, injuries and fatalities can be minimised. 

Taking action before disaster strikes gives people the best chance to stay safe and recover quickly.

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