MANILA, Philippines —The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Secretary Renato Solidum Jr. implored Manila officials to strengthen their preparedness and not to fear “The Big One.”
Speaking at the Executive Course on the Incident Command System in Manila on Saturday Solidum said preparedness started with the proper knowledge.
“We need to empower you and the people below you so they can find the most appropriate solutions in your areas,” Solidum said.
He warned that the Manila Trench—an active plate boundary west of Luzon capable of generating earthquakes as strong as magnitude 8.5 to 9.0—remains one of the most serious offshore threats in Metro Manila, with a possible tsunami reaching the city’s coast within an hour of impact.
Previously, DOST said the probability of the Big One increased as 2058 approaches. This prompted Metro Manila mayors to conduct preparedness mechanisms to ensure that citizens are ready.
The city government of Manila donated go-bags to over 100,000 beneficiaries, including students, barangay officials, and city hall employees.
Previously, Mayor Isko Moreno announced that a city-wide simultaneous earthquake drill would be held next month to prepare citizens.
