Department of Science and Technology Secretary Renato Solidum Jr. reiterated that Metro Manila remains vulnerable to a magnitude 7.2 earthquake generated by the West Valley Fault, warning that the long-feared "Big One" could claim more than 30,000 lives in the capital and thousands more in nearby provinces.
Speaking after the magnitude 7.8 offshore earthquake that struck Sarangani, Solidum said a quake of that size is not expected from the West Valley Fault but noted that a similar event occurring on land in the densely populated metropolis would be far more destructive. He urged the public to ensure buildings comply with the National Building Code and that older structures undergo inspection and retrofitting when necessary.
Solidum also reminded residents to follow the "drop, cover and hold" protocol during strong shaking instead of rushing outside, where collapsing structures and falling debris pose greater risks. Meanwhile, DOST-PHIVOLCS seismologist Bhenz Rodriguez clarified that every municipality and province has its own version of the "Big One," referring to the maximum credible earthquake that could occur on its local fault system.