The World Bank on Thursday, June 3, approved a $300-million (P14.3-billion) loan for projects to enhance the Philippines’ preparations and response to earthquakes and other emergencies.

The Philippines Seismic Risk Reduction and Resilience Project aims to improve the capability of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to prepare for and respond to earthquakes, tropical cyclones, volcanic eruptions, and pandemics.

The funding will also be used to upgrade approximately 425 structures, particularly 389 schools and 36 health centers, as well as upgrade the DPWH’s essential equipment for communications and restoration of mobility and transport in Metro Manila after a major earthquake.

“Metro Manila or the National Capital Region is the seat of government and the country’s population, economic, and cultural center. Enhancing the safety of its buildings and structures while boosting institutional response to disasters will help protect the lives and safety of more than 12 million residents, including the poor and most vulnerable,” said Ndiamé Diop, World Bank country director for Brunei, Malaysia, Philippines, and Thailand.

The Philippines is prone to earthquakes and tropical cyclones as it is located along the Pacific Ring of Fire and the Pacific Cyclone Belt.

“Over the past 50 years, the country has experienced more than 15 destructive earthquakes, and four major seismic events of magnitude greater than 6.5 occurred from November to December 2019 alone,” the World Bank said.

In January 2020, the eruption of Taal Volcano affected over 500,000 people and caused approximately P3.4 billion ($71 million) in direct damage to infrastructure and agriculture in the provinces of Batangas, Cavite, Laguna, and Rizal.

Metro Manila is also vulnerable due to the West Valley Fault. A risk assessment study estimated that a magnitude 7.2 earthquake on the fault or the so-called “Big One” would result in an estimated 48,000 fatalities and $48 billion in economic losses. – Rappler.com

$1 = P47.81