THE Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) is planning to include the provinces in Central Luzon and Calabarzon (Calamba, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal, Quezon) in the next earthquake drill.
MMDA Chairman Francis Tolentino said residents in Bulacan, Sta. Rosa, Calamba and Biñan in Laguna and Carmona, Cavite should also prepare for the quake since these areas lie along the West Valley Vault, which may move anytime based on its seismic history.
On Thursday, the MMDA spearheaded the first metro-wide shake drill which was participated by at least 10,000 individuals in several areas in anticipation of the possible 7.2 magnitude earthquake that could hit Metro Manila once the 100-kilometer-long West Valley Fault moves.
Tolentino said such activity should be done on a regular basis to increase the awareness of the people and minimize the quake's effect.
According to the 2004 Metro Manila Earthquake Impact Reduction Study, a 7.2-magnitude quake in Metro Manila could cause 33,500 deaths and 114,000 injuries from the tremor itself and additional 18,000 deaths from the fire that could break out.
Tolentino said the first metro-wide earthquake simulation was successful.
"Tayo'y naghahanda rin, na tayo'y may kakayahan ding ihanda ang ating sarili sa anumang kalamidad at hindi lang tayo umaasa sa international humanitarian relief," he said.
He said foreigns diplomats, street children, persons with disabilities including those who are under the care of the home for the aged and individuals living in high-rise condominium buildings should also participate in the drill as they are more at risk to disasters particularly earthquakes.
Tolentino said the possible effects of damage in La Mesa Dam in Quezon City and the possible occurrence of tsunami should also be looked into.
He urged the public to participate in the next drill "for their own good." (Sunnex)