THE Department of Science and Technology-Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (DOST-Phivolcs) has announced the release of the Central Digos Fault Atlas, a vital tool for reducing earthquake risks in the region.
In a press release, DOST-Phivolcs stated that the active fault atlas for Mindanao will be unveiled on March 17, 2025, at Benrose Park, Digos City, Davao del Sur.
Teresito C. Bacolod, director of DOST-Phivolcs, said that the atlas would help local government units (LGUs), residents, and stakeholders in Digos City better prepare for earthquake-related hazards.
“The Central Digos Atlas Fault will serve as a guide for science-based land use planning, zoning ordinance formulation, and disaster risk reduction,” Bacolod said.
The atlas features high-resolution active fault maps, detailing areas intersected by the Central Digos Fault (CDF), including structures vulnerable to earthquake hazards.
Based on DOST-Phivolcs Sigma Project mapping activities, the CDF runs through commercial, residential, industrial, and infrastructure zones in Digos City.
The CDF was first mapped for active faults in 2019. The 18-kilometer fault traverses Barangays Goma, Dulangan, Ruparan, Binaton, Tres de Mayo, Kiagot, Zone 1, and Aplaya.
Studies indicate that it has the potential to generate a magnitude 6.6 earthquake, causing severe ground shaking in Digos City and nearby areas.
The unveiling of the Central Digos Fault Atlas follows the release of the West Valley Fault Atlas for Metro Manila a decade ago.
Digos City recently experienced a strong earthquake at 9:42 a.m. on March 4, 2025. In 2019, multiple powerful earthquakes caused significant damage to school buildings and infrastructure in the area. (RGP)
