When In Manila, we’ve been warned for the past 2 years that a 7.2 magnitude earthquake could happen anytime. A lot of people are panicking and feeling confused. A lot are not sure exactly what to do if it does hit. A team of programmers even created a website that calculates one’s distance from the fault line to better prepare Filipinos that are particularly near either fault lines.
Well, if you’re like me and just feel unsure what to do if the Big One does hit, then you’d be glad to know MMDA is conducting a metrowide earthquake drill on July 30! According to MMDA Chairman Francis Tolentino, in a scale of 1-10, Metro Manila is around 5 when it comes to earthquake preparedness. That means if the Big One should hit soon, there could be hundreds or even thousands of casualties due to lack or preparation.
The metrowide drill is set to happen on July 30 from 3pm to 8pm. During the drill, they are also planning to cut off power supply and telecommunication lines to really capture the scenario of an actual quake. Traffic lights will also cease to function, which could lead to heavy traffic on the said date. Moreover, Tolentino is also considering having offices and classes suspended so that everyone may be properly involved and prepare for the earthquake.
Preparing for such will require everyone’s cooperation, especially the leaders of the 72 barangays, particularly those in cities which lie along the West Valley fault.
Better to be prepared right?
What do you guys think of MMDA’s plan? How do you feel about it?
