The city government of Muntinlupa has intensified its earthquake preparedness campaign by installing permanent markers along the West Valley Fault, a major geological fault line that experts say could trigger the long-feared “Big One.”
The initiative was officially launched in Barangay Sucat, led by Mayor Ruffy Biazon, alongside officials from the Department of Science and Technology–Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (DOST-Phivolcs), the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), and local barangay leaders.
Permanent Markers to Identify High-Risk Areas
The newly installed markers are designed to clearly identify where the active fault line passes through communities in the city. According to the Muntinlupa government, these markers will be placed across eight of the nine barangays that the fault line traverses.
Mayor Biazon explained that the project replaces earlier temporary signs with more durable markers that will serve as long-term guides for residents, planners, and developers.
“Dati na tayong may nilagay na temporary markers pero ngayon, mas pangmatagalang gabay na ito para matukoy kung saan eksaktong dumadaan ang active fault line sa lungsod (We have previously placed temporary markers, but now, this is a more permanent guide to determine exactly where the active fault line passes through the city),” said Biazon.
Each marker bears the warning: “Ang lugar na ito ay dinadaanan ng West Valley Fault (This area is traversed by the West Valley Fault).”
City officials say the signs are meant to help residents better understand their surroundings and discourage construction in areas directly above the active fault.
Understanding the Threat of the “Big One”
The West Valley Fault system stretches across several provinces and densely populated areas, including Bulacan, Rizal, Metro Manila, Cavite, and Laguna. While the fault itself lies underground, its path has been mapped by scientists to identify areas that could experience severe ground rupture during a major earthquake.
According to Phivolcs, the term “Big One” refers to a potential earthquake of magnitude 7.2 or higher along the West Valley Fault. Experts have warned that communities located directly above or near the fault line could face significant risks if such an event occurs.
“Also, there are specific locations that are considered most vulnerable to said earthquake because of their proximity [to] the so-called West Valley Fault,” authorities noted.
Strengthening Public Awareness and Preparedness
City officials emphasized that identifying the fault’s exact path is a critical step in disaster risk reduction.
“Knowing where the fault is is already a big step para makaiwas sa mas malaking pinsala (Knowing where the fault is is already a big step to avoid greater damage),” Biazon said.
The installation effort is part of the city’s broader disaster preparedness program, which includes the recurring “Walk the Fault” activity. This initiative involves visiting communities located along the fault line to educate residents about earthquake risks and safety measures.
“Kaya tuloy-tuloy ang awareness at preparedness efforts natin (That is why our awareness and preparedness efforts are ongoing),” he added.
Authorities hope the permanent markers will serve not only as a warning but also as a reminder for communities to stay vigilant and prepared for potential seismic activity in the region.
Source: ManilaBulletin
Based on today’s article, we recommend the following items to help add to your family’s preparedness score:
- Victoper LED Waterproof Tactical Flashlight 2 Pack
- Lichamp LED 4-Pack Battery Camping Lantern
- Collapsible Portable LED Camping Lantern
- GE 4-in-1 LED Power Failure Night Light
Note: We only recommend items we believe adds real value to your safety plan. If you purchase through these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Leave a Reply