Phivolcs eyes earthquake model for Cebu to prepare for 'Big One'

CEBU, Philippines — Bracing for a probable earthquake, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) is working hand-in-hand with some stakeholders from Metro Cebu in making a localized Earthquake Model atlas.

Engr. Henremagne Peñarubia, science research specialist of PHIVOLCS, said losses or damage can be minimized even if a strong earthquake hits Cebu if authorities and officials push for proactive measures.

He said the agency is planning together with the disaster managers and other involved stakeholders in formulating an efficient tool that all valuable information from their on-going study can be delivered effectively.

PHIVOLCS is currently developing an atlas for the Metro Cebu Earthquake Model that will outline the probabilistic seismic hazard assessment of the metropolis.

The atlas is like a handbook that presents all the probabilistic seismic hazard maps that will aid engineers in designing buildings and structures that are earthquake resilient.

It can also serve as a guide particularly in land use and urban planning, and disaster risk management plans of local government units, government agencies, and other stakeholders.

Peñarubia said the agency is considering the suggestion from local authorities to use the Visayan dialect so that all information can be understood easily by locals.

He said the agency will also need the help and support from concerned local government units in supplying some inputs on the atlas.

Engr. Robinson Jorgio, officer-in-charge of PHIVOLCS Lapu-Lapu station, said the final product will be introduced or launched officially this July, in time for the National Disaster Resilience Month observance.

He said there will be a ceremonial turnover of the book from PHIVOLCS to Cebu province.

After the program, he said all the analysis and results from their studies and research may be revealed to the public.

He assured that all information is reviewed and refined thoroughly and is even accepted by the international community of scientists and researchers.

What is available now is the Philippine Earthquake Model, which covers the scope in Philippines in general and also touches Metro Manila.

It was released last January 2018 entitled “The Philippine Earthquake Model: A Probabilistic Seismic Hazard Assessment of the Philippines and Metro Manila.” (FREEMAN)