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The state seismology organization refuted the widely held notion that individuals on upper levels of a structure should ascend during an earthquake, emphasizing that evacuating to an open area remains the most secure choice.
The notion implies that in the event of an earthquake, individuals on upper floors ought to move upward toward the roof to facilitate rescue efforts if the edifice were to completely give way.
“I understand this is often depicted in films. However, we cannot foresee how a building will collapse,” Charmaine V. Villamil, Senior Science Research Specialist at the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS), stated during a Zoom interview in a blend of English and Tagalog.
“Not every structure collapses like a pancake—some lean, while others, such as the Grand Hyatt (Manila), may crumble inward,” Ms. Villamil remarked.
During an earthquake, she noted, it is still best to perform the duck, cover, and hold procedure while the tremors are happening.
Once the shaking ceases and it is confirmed safe, exit the building calmly and proceed to an open location away from buildings and potential falling debris.
In residential homes, readiness for earthquakes is similarly crucial, she mentioned — not only by having a go-bag and being aware of standard earthquake drills but also by being armed with precise information.
In light of recent earthquakes, the interior department on Thursday encouraged all local leaders to initiate earthquake and tsunami preparedness measures.
Local government engineering teams were advised to evaluate critical infrastructure and examine the reoccupation of damaged facilities.
Meanwhile, Department of Health Secretary Teodoro J. Herbosa on Tuesday reassured that DOH hospitals are anticipated to endure the “Big One” in Metro Manila, which could potentially produce at least a magnitude 7.2 earthquake.
In several local government units, including Laguna, a suspension of classes has been enacted as a preventive measure following the recent earthquakes.
Governor Marisol “Sol” Castillo Aragones-Sampelo stated that the suspension, which extends from October 14 to 31, encompasses all in-person classes in both public and private schools throughout the province.
Throughout the two-week suspension, the provincial government will carry out inspections to evaluate the structural safety of school facilities. — Edg Adrian A. Eva
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