SAN JOSE, Antique (PIA) — The Mines and Geosciences Bureau cautioned locals and motorists about the possible rock fall that may occur along the highway of Barangay Iba, Anini-y, Antique.
MGB Region 6 Senior Geologist Adrian Nichol L. Lizada, during a meeting with the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council, discussed the assessment of rock mass with cracks at Cresta de Gallo, Barangay Iba, Anini-y, that posed a threat of rock fall along the national road.
Lizada presented drone shots provided by the Anini-y Local Government Unit, highlighting the cracks on the top of the mountain.
The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology assured the public that there is no volcanic activity or formation in the area and no active faults in Barangay Iba.
The rock mass may be displaced and moved, with the hazard zone around 300 meters wide, covering the newly constructed esplanade along the road.
Despite mitigation measures of rock bolting and slope netting, rock fall can still happen due to widening cracks and monsoon rains, among other risks.
Lizada noted that the slope in the hazard area is almost vertical, which increases the risk of rock falls and slides.
The MGB recommends monitoring mass movements, consulting with the Department of Public Works and Highways and local engineers for hazard management, and regulating traffic during heavy rains.
Lizada also urged local government units and agencies to secure recommendations from geotechnical engineers and other qualified technical personnel before the construction or expansion of projects in hazard-prone areas. (AGP/PSM/PIA Antique with reports from JYD/UA Intern)
