Urgent Call for Preparedness as Ilocos Sur Faces Increased Seismic Activity and Tsunami Risk

The recent flurry of seismic activity off the coast of Ilocos Sur has prompted urgent action from the Office of Civil Defense (OCD). Amid concerns about potential tsunamis triggered by these earthquakes, local government units in the Ilocos Region, Cagayan Valley, and Central Luzon have been directed to develop and refine their earthquake and tsunami evacuation plans. Undersecretary Ariel Nepomuceno, head of the OCD, has emphasized the necessity for immediate preparedness. Following a series of tremors that began occurring on December 17 and peaked with a 5.0 magnitude quake on December 19, he convened an emergency meeting with regional directors. Recognizing the historical vulnerabilities of these areas to seismic events, Nepomuceno's message was clear: proactive measures must be taken to ensure public safety. "Regional Directors 1, 2, and 3, please work closely and urgently with your partner national government agencies and local government units, especially the Department of the Interior and Local Government," Nepomuceno urged. The focus is not only on immediate responses but also on creating a robust framework for future preparedness. He reiterated the importance of detailed planning, stating, "Double-check preparations and 'reactions,' not just responses after an incident." The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) reported that between December 17 and 20, 49 earthquakes were recorded in the region. The earthquakes' alignment with the active subduction of the Manila Trench—a significant geological feature—highlights the need for vigilance and readiness among coastal communities. Nepomuceno acknowledged the challenges posed by the holiday season, which often distracts from emergency preparedness efforts. However, he insisted that local governments push through these limitations to safeguard residents. "I know it's challenging, especially since we have not yet achieved our ideal level of preparedness, but please do your best despite the limitations," he said, urging local officials to prioritize the safety of their communities. As the tremors have subsided, this moment presents an opportunity for local governments to review and enhance their disaster response strategies. The message from the OCD is unequivocal: the time for preparation is now. Communities must be equipped not only to respond after an earthquake strikes but to act swiftly and effectively in the face of imminent threats, such as potential tsunamis. With the risk of geological events ever-present, the call for action resonates across these regions. It is a reminder that the safety of citizens depends on the readiness and resilience of local governance in the face of nature's unpredictability.