WE KNOW that the Philippines is among the countries most vulnerable to earthquakes. A very strong temblor is likely to reduce some areas to rubble and kill thousands of people. We cannot prevent an earthquake from happening but with the proper preparedness and preventive measures, we can reduce the casualties and damages.
Yesterday’s earthquake felt in Panay Island and even neighboring Guimaras called to mind the importance of the structural integrity of public infrastructures. This is vital in preventing an earthquake from turning into a major disaster.
All public infrastructures such as buildings, bridges, railways and other similar structures should be evaluated for their structural integrity and retrofitted to withstand strong temblors because sound engineering practices would ensure minimal damages due to earthquakes. In the nation’s capital for example, according to the Metro Manila Earthquake Impact Reduction Study (MMEIRS) conducted by the Japan International Cooperation Agency, 40 percent of residential buildings and 35 percent of all public buildings could be destroyed or damaged should a 7.2-magnitude earthquake occur.
Other priority steps in earthquake preparedness include the regular conduct of safety drills; establishment of an early warning system for earthquake and tsunami; determining open spaces for safe refuge; and ensuring that back-up systems of vital utilities — such as electricity and telecommunications equipment — are in place for speedy recovery and rehabilitation efforts.
Every barangay in the country must craft an evacuation plan that would help citizens find out the fastest and safest way to reach open spaces and other safe areas.
We will not tire of demanding from concerned government agencies the establishment of necessary mechanisms to secure our communities from the devastating effects of disasters such as earthquakes. We will also continue to urge communities to take the initiative in making sure that they are well-prepared so that they will not be caught off guard when natural hazards strike.
