NCR, Luzon LGUs told: Prepare for strong earthquakes, tsunamis

Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla has asked local government units (LGUs) in Metro Manila, Regions 1, 2, 3, 4-A and 4-B to prepare for possible strong earthquakes and tsunamis amid a series of earthquakes generated by the Manila Trench.

- By BELLA CARIASO

Remulla said LGUs should remain vigilant and ensure critical preparations are implemented despite the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) already reporting a decline in the number of temblors.

On Dec. 26, Phivolcs said the earthquakes caused by the Manila Trench have decreased, with one recorded activity each for Dec. 24 and 25.

Remulla said all concerned local chief executives should consider possible intensification of the earthquake sequence.

"LGUs are enjoined to convene their local disaster risk reduction and management councils, conduct pre-disaster risk assessments and strictly implement minimum early and critical preparedness measures," he said.