Phivolcs to install more quake sensors

MANILA, Philippines – New sensors that will help improve monitoring of earthquakes will be installed around Metro Manila and Mindanao, the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) announced Friday, March 2.

27 new strong motion sensors, which will help record-high magnitude earthquakes in the said areas, will be installed by the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs), the DOST said.

It will measure and record quakes with large amplitude and high frequency seismic wave activities. These are usually local quakes magnitude 3 and above, the agency said.

The new equipment, DOST said, will also help in studies on the effects of earth movements on soil quality.

Some areas where the sensors will be installed are Metro Manila, Davao City, and San Pablo City.

Disaster mitigation

“Through the additional sensors, experts at Phivolcs will be able to determine the risks in affected areas and provide a timely recommendation in upgrading building codes to conform with the soil quality,” the department said.

Data gathered from the equipment — which is not an early warning system, but rather a way to measure impact and magnitude of earthquakes — will also be used for geohazard studies.

“Our job is to provide vital information to local governments as well as private engineering firms and land developers on the possible hazards that may occur, and hopefully prevent it from happening,” Phivolcs’ Melchor Lasala said.

“Disaster mitigation is high on the agenda of DOST… We are embarking on a program that will ensure safer communities through S&T [science and technology], and the installation of strong motion sensors will play a part in it,” said Science Secretary Mario Montejo. – Rappler.com