PHIVOLCS Study Predicts Long-Period Earthquake Ground Motion in Metro Manila

The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) has conducted a study that predicts long-period earthquake ground motion in Metro Manila. The study analyzes the subsurface layering and building code compliance to mitigate the impact on high-rise structures, following observations from the 2019 Zambales earthquake.

The study aims to provide crucial information to help improve the resilience of buildings and infrastructure in the region against potential seismic events. PHIVOLCS director Dr. Teresito Bacolcol stated that there are "engineering interventions" available to fortify high-rise buildings, and that shorter buildings near the West Valley Fault are more likely to collapse during an earthquake.

A joint study by PHIVOLCS and the Tokyo Institute of Technology found that some high-rise buildings in the Philippines, particularly in Metro Manila and Cebu, did not meet the requirements of the National Building Code of the Philippines when subjected to earthquake shake tests.

The findings revealed that Philippine buildings had longer movements compared to buildings in Japan, and some high-rise buildings shook for longer periods during an earthquake than the mandated 0.1 second.

The study also noted that hazards may be posed by items inside houses or buildings during an earthquake, as evidenced by the recent magnitude 7.2 earthquake in Taiwan that resulted in 9 deaths and over 1,000 injuries. The study aims to help building owners and developers strengthen existing structures and ensure compliance with the building code.

Why this matters: The findings of the PHIVOLCS study have significant implications for the safety and resilience of buildings and infrastructure in Metro Manila, a densely populated region prone to seismic activity. Ensuring compliance with building codes and implementing necessary engineering interventions can potentially save lives and minimize damage in the event of a major earthquake.

Dr. Bacolcol emphasized the importance of engineering interventions to fortify high-rise buildings and highlighted the vulnerability of shorter structures near the West Valley Fault. The collaborative study between PHIVOLCS and the Tokyo Institute of Technology underscores the need for building owners and developers to prioritize earthquake safety and adhere to the National Building Code of the Philippines.

Key Takeaways

• PHIVOLCS study has predicted long-period earthquake ground motion in Metro Manila.
• The study said some high-rise buildings in PH fail earthquake shake tests and don't meet building codes.
• Shorter buildings near the West Valley Fault are more likely to collapse in earthquakes.
• Hazards from items inside buildings pose risks during earthquakes, as seen in Taiwan.
• Ensuring building code compliance and engineering interventions can save lives.