Urgent Call for Earthquake and Tsunami Preparedness in Northern Luzon Regions

The Office of Civil Defense (OCD) has issued an urgent call for local government units in the Ilocos Region, Cagayan Valley, and Central Luzon to develop robust earthquake and tsunami evacuation plans. This directive comes in the wake of a series of earthquakes that recently affected the offshore areas of Ilocos Sur, prompting concerns about the potential risks of tsunamis linked to seismic activity along the Manila Trench. Undersecretary Ariel Nepomuceno, head of the OCD, emphasized the necessity of immediate action during a statement following a high-level meeting. He instructed regional directors to collaborate closely with national government agencies and local government units, particularly highlighting the role of the Department of the Interior and Local Government in this preparedness effort. Nepomuceno acknowledged the challenges faced by these regions in terms of disaster readiness. “I understand that your areas are not as prepared as we desire, but we must remedy this situation now,” he stated. The urgency of this message was underscored by data from the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs), which reported 49 earthquakes occurring off Santa Catalina, Ilocos Sur, from December 17 to 20. The most significant of these tremors reached a magnitude of 5.0 on December 19. The sequence of earthquakes has been attributed to the active subduction occurring along the Manila Trench, a geological feature that poses significant risks to the nearby coastal communities. In light of these developments, Nepomuceno urged regional directors to focus on preemptive measures rather than merely reactive responses. “Double-check preparations and 'reactions,' assuming that warnings are effective. What can be done in 20 minutes by the vulnerable communities?” he queried, highlighting the critical importance of swift and effective action in the face of imminent threats. Despite the holiday season, which can often distract from emergency preparedness, Nepomuceno implored local officials to prioritize the safety of their constituents. "I know it's challenging, especially since we have not yet achieved our ideal level of preparedness, but please do your best despite the limitations," he concluded. As the regions work to bolster their preparedness, the call to action serves as a sobering reminder of the persistent risks posed by natural disasters. With the looming threat of tsunamis and further seismic activity, the commitment of local governments to develop effective evacuation plans will be crucial in safeguarding lives and ensuring community resilience in the face of potential catastrophes.