EDITORIAL - It pays to always be alert

Another strong earthquake rocked Cebu and Bohol last Monday, creating fear among thousands who have yet to fully recover from the effects of a powerful tremor that jolted the two provinces two years ago.

Monday morning's magnitude 4.7 quake caused hundreds to frantically rush out of their establishments. It immediately disrupted government services as work at several offices had to stop to give way to inspection of buildings for possible damage.

Good thing the quake struck when most schools were already closed for the summer vacation. But there are those that were still holding commencement exercises when it occurred, forcing school authorities to cancel the activities.

Still, Cebuanos are thankful that the latest quake was not as powerful as the one that hit Bohol and Cebu October in 2013, which killed many and caused severe damage to government infrastructure and historical landmarks.

In the latest tremor, there was no report of any human casualty or severe injury in Cebu. But authorities are now checking whether it has caused any damage to government edifices and private establishments.

But worth mentioning was the readiness of everyone. The moment the earth shook, those inside their offices immediately rushed out.

Of course, the latest quake will certainly not be the last to hit Cebu. With the Philippines being in the Ring of Fire, there will be more fearful experiences in the future.     

Unlike a storm, an earthquake comes like a thief in the night. Because it sends no warning, heavy casualty is always expected whenever a major tremor strikes, especially in highly urbanized areas like Metro Cebu.

Earthquake drills are always conducted annually in schools and offices. Therefore, it pays to always be alert because our survival largely depends on how ready are we when the big one strikes.