Office of Civil Defense (OCD) Administrator and Undersecretary Ariel Nepomuceno said the 30,000 to 50,000 potential fatalities in the event of the anticipated “Big One” earthquake are unacceptable.
“It is unbearable to contemplate tens of thousands of fatalities. We are not adequately prepared for this scenario,” Nepomuceno explained during the Asia-Pacific Ministerial Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction.
He asserted that readiness for the “Big One,” feared to strike Metro Manila, can only be achieved when the potential casualty figures are reduced to a bare minimum.
The Civil Defense Administrator called upon all stakeholders to intensify their efforts, emphasizing the need for a multifaceted approach that includes engineering solutions, rigorous enforcement of building regulations, and a commitment to discipline among the populace.
“We need robust structures for homes, buildings, bridges, schools, hospitals, and other critical infrastructure. It is essential for everyone to comply with the Structural Code of the Philippines and adhere to building permit requirements,” Nepomuceno said.
“This is a shared responsibility. We urge everyone, especially the media, to raise awareness about the escalating risks associated with disasters. It is vital that the public is informed about available technologies that can aid in their preparation for, and response to, calamities,” he added.
The OCD official noted that although President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has mandated the intensification of disaster preparedness efforts utilizing science-based solutions, individual responsibility remains paramount: “It is our job to assist you, but ultimately, the responsibility for your safety lies with you.”
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