In the aftermath of a 7.6-magnitude earthquake in Peru, a Facebook post has once again gone viral, warning Filipinos about the potential occurrence of “The Big One” in the Philippines. The post, which has sparked widespread attention and concern, emphasizes the possibility of a massive earthquake and high tsunami impacting the nation.
The viral post contains a message urging citizens to pray but also to prepare for the worst:
“THE BIG ONE + HIGH TSUNAMI LET’S PRAY, BUT LET’S ALSO BE PREPARED. 🙏
The post references statements from the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) Director Teresito Bacolcol, highlighting the country’s significant earthquake risks. According to Bacolcol, the Philippines could experience earthquakes stronger than magnitude 8. In an interview with GMA News, he elaborated:
“The Philippine Archipelago is compressed on both sides by the Eurasian Plate and the Philippine Sea Plate, but the Eurasian Plate is almost immobile. The strong motion would come from the Philippine Sea Plate. We are being pushed towards the northwest,” Bacolcol explained.
He further noted the specific threats posed by various trenches around the country:
“The Philippine Trench in Samar is capable of generating [magnitude] 8.1, and when that happens, it could generate a tsunami as high as 10 meters. Meanwhile, the Manila Trench could generate a [magnitude] 8.3 earthquake,” he said.
Bacolcol also highlighted the urgent need for tsunami preparedness. He pointed out that it might take only five minutes for the first tsunami waves to arrive following an earthquake, making it extremely challenging to issue timely alerts. He urged coastal communities to be vigilant and recognize the signs of an impending tsunami, such as strong shaking, a sudden drop in sea level, and a roaring sound from the sea.
“When there is a strong shaking to the point you can barely move or can’t stand, there is a sudden drop of sea level, and there is a roaring sound coming from the sea… If that’s one of the things you’ve observed, you have to evacuate to a higher place immediately if you’re in a coastal community,” Bacolcol emphasized.
These remarks come in the wake of a magnitude 7.2 earthquake that recently hit eastern Taiwan, resulting in the loss of 10 lives. Furthermore, the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) has projected that a magnitude 7.2 earthquake, commonly referred to as “The Big One,” could potentially cause over 60,000 fatalities and leave 120,000 people missing if it strikes Metro Manila.
While it is impossible to predict exactly when “The Big One” might occur, posts like these serve as a stark reminder of the importance of disaster preparedness. Despite the fear and anxiety such messages can generate, they also play a crucial role in raising awareness and encouraging proactive measures.
The recent reposting of this message following the earthquake in Peru has led to a surge in shares and likes on the concerned Facebook page. This reaction underscores the heightened sensitivity and apprehension among the Filipino public regarding natural disasters, particularly earthquakes.
However, amidst the growing concern, everyone must stay prepared and vigilant. Continuous prayers for safety and readiness for potential calamities remain vital. Awareness and education about disaster preparedness can significantly mitigate the risks and impacts of such natural events.
As we reflect on the warnings and information provided by experts like Director Bacolcol, let us take this opportunity to reinforce our disaster preparedness measures and ensure that our communities are equipped to handle such emergencies. While we hope and pray that “The Big One” never comes to pass, being prepared can save countless lives and reduce the devastation should such an event occur.