The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) of Region XI ruled out a magnitude 7 earthquake that is rumored to hit Davao City as an internet hoax.
This is because no technology (even in the United States or Japan) as yet can predict if and when an earthquake will strike, Engr. Janila Deocampo of PHIVOLCS Region XI told the Kapehan sa Dabaw at the SM City Davao.
She added that there are predictions that are based on history, if certain places have already experienced an earthquake, but not so far as predicting its exact place, date and intensity.
Deocampo also said that the appearances of deep sea creatures do not necessarily predict shakings.
There have been unusual animal behavior reported before an earthquake strikes but it is difficult to say (if these behaviors can predict earthquakes), she added.
She said that this could be linked to other possible catastrophe but stressed that there had been no scientific study relating animal behavior and possibility of an earthquake.
“The only thing left for us to do is to prepare,” reminded Deocampo. She also advised that everyone should not forget the “duck, cover and hold” practiced during earthquake drills.
According to PHIVOLCS, Davao City has two known fault lines: in Ma-a area and New Carmen, the latter’s movement being the cause of the recent earthquake last February 23. Those planning to build establishments are advised not to build them on top of fault lines.
“Build on the sides but never on top,” she said, adding in the light of new infrastructures being built in Davao City, investors should do well to consult their structural engineers before proceeding to build.
Davao Seismic Station located at the Philippine Science High School-Southern Mindanao Campus serves as the earthquake monitoring system for the whole Mindanao.
