DENR conducts mapping

CEBU, Philippines - The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) - Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) 7 started the “densification or geohazard assessment and mapping” of 49 barangays in the municipalities of Bantayan, Sta. Fe, and Madridejos, all in Bantayan Island, Cebu.

The assessment started yesterday and will be completed on December 9, 2011.

DENR-7 Regional Executive Director Maximo O. Dichoso said the densification project is pursued to produce geohazard maps covering critical areas to “show more details.”

This has been one of the priority programs of DENR Secretary Ramon J.P. Paje to address the effects of climate change.

A team of geologists composed of Jessica Lucero, Maria Elena S. Lupo and Josephine T. Aleta will determine the vulnerability of each barangay to coastal erosion, storm surges, and coastal flooding.

Among the details that can be found in the 1:10,000-scale geohazard map that they would be producing include parameters or features in the area that may affect ground stability and the type of landslides that can possibly occur.

MGB-7 Regional Director Loreto B. Alburo, on the other hand, said that the survey team will then issue appropriate warnings and recommendations to local government units and the communities on the level of susceptibility to landslides and flooding.

This would be so local officials can start initiating measures to lessen the potential impacts of these geological hazards.

Alburo added that the team will also be undertaking an intensive information and education support and training not only for local officials but also for community leaders and their members.

He further said that given the abnormal rainfall or precipitation that we have been experiencing right now which is attributed to climate change, the MGB continues to conduct a geohazard assessment on critical areas. – (FREEMAN)