VIGAN CITY, Ilocos Sur (PIA) — The Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO) is urging residents and local DRRM offices in Ilocos Sur to remain vigilant despite a recent decline in earthquake activity along the Manila Trench near Santa Catalina town.
The Manila Trench, an underwater tectonic boundary located off the western coast of Luzon, is known for generating significant seismic activity and posing potential risks of earthquakes and tsunamis to nearby coastal areas.
Since December 17, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) has recorded 193 offshore earthquakes, with magnitudes ranging from 1.8 to 5.0.
While activity peaked on Dec. 19-20, PDRRM Officer Rhon Arquelada emphasized that preparedness remains critical, especially in coastal municipalities facing tsunami risks.
“To our city and municipal DRRMOs in the province, please remain vigilant and continue monitoring the situation, especially in light of the offshore earthquakes near Santa Catalina town. Assist us in relaying information to the communities so they know how to prepare, especially with the threat of a tsunami, and what actions to take should it occur,” Arquelada said.
He urged residents to prepare emergency go-bags containing essentials such as food, water, hygiene kits, important documents, and first aid supplies to ensure a quick evacuation when necessary.
Arquelada also reminded the public about the “duck, cover, and hold” technique during strong earthquakes and highlighted natural tsunami warning signs like unusual sea-level changes, strong ground shaking, or a roaring sound from the ocean.
The provincial government continues to coordinate closely with PHIVOLCS, national agencies, and local DRRM councils, ensuring 24/7 monitoring of coastal areas.
Evacuation plans have been established for vulnerable municipalities:
- Santa Catalina: Bantay Gymnasium in Bantay town
- Caoayan: Nueva Segovia Consortium of Cooperatives (NSCC) building or Barangay Baluarte in Vigan City
- San Esteban: Multiple designated evacuation centers
“We encourage all our LDRRMOs to develop evacuation plans to prepare for a tsunami so that residents know where to go,” Arquelada added.
The PDRRMO remains committed to safeguarding lives and ensuring disaster preparedness across Ilocos Sur, underscoring that vigilance, preparedness, and community cooperation are vital in reducing risks during seismic events. (CCMT/JMCQ, PIA Ilocos Sur)
