Davao Region Expands Earthquake and Tsunami Preparedness Initiatives

The Department of Science and Technology‑Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (DOST‑PHIVOLCS) continued its partnership with the Davao City government to run the “Walk the Fault” program. The effort maps active fault lines, runs information campaigns and advises residents to retrofit homes and keep new construction at least 5‑10 m from identified faults.

The Office of Civil Defense Region XI launched a community tsunami‑readiness accreditation program in Mati City, Davao Oriental. The scheme sets 12 criteria for purok‑level preparedness, including early‑warning bells and coordination with local and national agencies, and involves an accreditation board that includes an international tsunami‑ preparedness organization. Officials warn the Davao Region could face an 8.2‑magnitude earthquake and a resulting tsunami larger than those expected for Metro Manila, urging coastal communities to ready themselves after the recent 7.8‑magnitude Sarangani quake that triggered tsunami alerts.