Representatives of the Seismological Observation and Earthquake Prediction Division of the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) visited San Carlos Mayor Renato Gustilo Dec. 11, to discuss the installation of the Philippine Strong Motion Network (PSMNet) in the city.
PSMNet, one of the key earthquake monitoring networks in the Philippines, is equipped with strong-motion accelerographs strategically located in densely populated areas and near active faults.
The network aims to help with disaster preparedness by providing data for designing earthquake-resilient buildings, improving building codes, and understanding site effects. It also supports the development of an early warning system for earthquake-prone areas, the city said.
The Philippine government, through Phivolcs, will fund the purchase of the equipment, while local government units (LGUs) will provide the installation sites. The installation date in San Carlos City is yet to be confirmed.
Science research specialist (SRS) II Robert Tiglao of Phivolcs said that with the new instruments, the PSMNet will measure peak ground acceleration which will assist local governments in planning infrastructure, enhancing disaster preparedness, and guiding building designs to prevent damage from soil movement and resonance.
Tiglao added that while the goal is to cover all LGUs, limited resources have led them to prioritize key cities, such as San Carlos and Bago in Negros Occidental, located along the San Carlos fault line, with plans to expand to more cities in the future.
Despite concerns about earthquake risks in San Carlos City, Tiglao reassured that there are no immediate threats. However, the collected data will be instrumental in planning for future events, ensuring the city is better prepared for strong earthquakes.
Present during the visit were Phivolcs supervising SRS/team leader Rhommel Grutas, project technical aides VI Lucas Austria and Jonessa Banting, San Carlos CDRRM officer Joe Recalex Alingasa Jr., and representatives from CDRRMO, City Planning and Development Coordinator’s Office, and the City Engineering Department. ||
