Book for earthquake resilient buildings in Cebu launched

To aid in disaster preparedness of Metro Cebu, the Department of Science and Technology – Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (DOST – PHIVOLCS) launched the Metro Cebu Earthquake Model (MCEM) Atlas at the DepEd Ecotech Center in Sudlon, Lahug.

The Atlas is a seismic ground motion hazard assessment specific for Metro Cebu, considering various earthquake sources including the Central Cebu Fault System. This Atlas may be used as reference in the seismic design of buildings and structures and as a tool for earthquake impact assessment and earthquake risk reduction efforts of national government agencies, Local Government Units in Metro Cebu, academe and the private sector.

Metro Cebu, a fast-growing and dynamic metropolis, has been identified as an earthquakeprone area. The Central Cebu Fault System transects Danao City, Compostela, Cebu City, Talisay City, Minglanilla, Naga City, Balamban and Toledo City. Large-magnitude earthquakes have occurred in the region. The MCEM Atlas aims to minimize the damages to buildings and infrastructures in case a strong earthquake hits the area.

This Atlas contains Peak Ground Acceleration and Spectral Acceleration maps, which were modelled using Probabilistic Seismic Hazard-Analysis through the collaborative efforts and expertise of seismologists, geologists, engineers and researchers from DOST – PHIVOLCS in consultation with various stakeholders such as the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office, the regional offices of the Office of Civil Defense, Department of Science and Technology, Department of Public Works and Highways, Department of Interior and Local Government, and the National Economic and Development 0Authority.

It was also participated by Ramon Aboitiz Foundation Inc. from the private sector, Cebu Institute of Technology – University and University of San Jose – Recoletos from the academe and by representatives of LGUs that comprise Metro Cebu.

Also included in the Atlas are the Seismicity Map of Metro Cebu and Vicinity, the Distribution of Active Faults in Region VII and the Metropolitan Cebu Vs30 Site Model.

Earlier this year, DOST – PHIVOLCS launched the Philippine Earthquake Model Atlas which covers the whole Philippines, and Metro Manila.

Copies of MCEM Atlas were distributed during the event. Stakeholders can also download the digital copy online from DOST – PHIVOLCS official website (www.phivolcs.dost.gov.ph).