The Department of Science and Technology on Tuesday said that Metro Manila is now 'better equipped' to handle a major earthquake, known as "The Big One," compared to 10 years ago.

In a Malacañang Press Briefing, DOST Secretary Renato Solidum said that Metro Manila faces explicitly the potential for a 7.2 magnitude event due to the presence of the West Valley Fault.

While a magnitude 7.4 earthquake in other areas can already cause significant damage, Solidum stressed that Metro Manila's situation is different due to the presence of the West Valley Fault.

"If we look at the scenario involving the West Valley Fault, based on its length, we can expect it to generate a magnitude 7.2 earthquake," Solidum explained, adding that the intensity of shaking in Metro Manila would be significantly stronger due to the earthquake occurring on land. perhaps reaching intensity 8 compared to the intensity 7 experienced in Surigao recently.

"At intensity 8, you cannot stand. The shaking will be kind of long, close to one minute depending on the foundation. Intensity 7, you can stand but with less damage," Solidum said.

Highlighting the progress made in earthquake preparedness, Solidum acknowledged that awareness campaigns have significantly improved, particularly among the younger population.

He emphasized the crucial role of information dissemination in ensuring individuals are equipped with the knowledge to respond effectively to disasters.

Solidum emphasized the need to continue strengthening existing infrastructure. While newly constructed buildings adhere to stricter building codes, older buildings require retrofitting to minimize damage and potential casualties.

"What's important is we need to continue strengthening the houses that were constructed years before. The new ones conform to the building code, but we need to strengthen our building preparedness. That's where the solution lies in reducing potential casualties – we need to strengthen to minimize the affected," he stated.