The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) is urging the public to remain calm but prepared following a series of strong earthquakes that have recently shaken various parts of the country.
Phivolcs Director Teresito Bacolcol emphasized that while the Philippines is naturally prone to seismic activity due to its 180 active faults and six trenches, the recent quakes—though powerful—were caused by different sources and are not necessarily connected.
“The recent earthquakes are a reminder that there should be a plan and know safe places,” Bacolcol told the Philippine News Agency. He added, “We want to remind the public to stay calm but be ready.”
The advisory comes after a magnitude 6.9 offshore quake near Cebu on September 30, which has since generated over 12,000 aftershocks. Meanwhile, twin quakes measuring magnitude 7.4 and 6.8 struck off Davao Oriental on October 10, producing more than 1,300 aftershocks.
The tremors have sparked a wave of precautionary buying in Metro Manila, with residents rushing to purchase hard hats and emergency whistles. Some schools have even begun requiring safety gear for students.
Phivolcs assured the public that it continues to monitor seismic and volcanic activity and will promptly issue alerts should any significant developments arise.
The Bench Files 
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