The Metro Davao Earthquake Model (MDEM) Atlas was launched last September 4, 2019 at the Grand Regal Hotel in Lanang, Davao City to aid engineers in the earthquake-resilient design of buildings and structures that can minimize the impact of very destructive ground shaking and prevent casualties.

DOST-PHIVOLCS reiterates the importance of structurally-sound buildings as part of earthquake preparedness. “Please note that earthquakes do not kill people, but buildings that collapse or houses that collapse do,” DOST Undersecretary Renato Solidum, Jr., Officer-In-Charge of PHIVOLCS, said during the launch of the atlas.

Regional Director of Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) XI, Engineer Allan Borromeo, expressed his appreciation to DOST – PHIVOLCS for the MDEM Atlas. He said, “We can be guided now which areas are prone to ground movement. We, in Region XI, can better equip ourselves especially in designing structures that could resist and even lessen the effects of big earthquakes.”

MDEM Atlas also raises the awareness on the presence of active faults in Davao. “We know there was a story of the ‘Big One’ in Metro Manila and other areas, but you in Davao will also have your own ‘Big Ones’ because of the fact that there are so many faults within the region especially in Davao City,” said Usec. Solidum.

Digital copy of the MDEM Atlas can be downloaded from DOST – PHIVOLCS official website (www.phivolcs.dost.gov.ph).