The Department of Science and Technology – Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (DOST-PHIVOLCS), in technical collaboration with the Iloilo City Government, jointly developed the first city-wide event-based probabilistic seismic hazard maps and building risk assessment.
This collaboration marks a significant milestone in advancing earthquake preparedness and risk management in the Philippines.
By providing invaluable tools and data, it empowers communities, construction and insurance industries, and government agencies to work together in ensuring the safety and resilience of Iloilo City in the face of seismic challenges.
Aimed to highlight adherence to safe building standards and quick recovery in the event of probable destructive earthquakes, the partnership resulted in products split into two volumes.
Volume 1 contains the Iloilo City Earthquake Model: Event-Based Probabilistic Seismic Risk Assessment (ICEM-EBPSRA) Technical Report, while Volume 2 contains the Iloilo City Buildings Portfolio: Exposure Database 2015-2022.
These products identify which buildings may be affected, and the estimated monetary loss for each asset and for each community considered.
They will be launched in a press conference on August 18 at the City Hall Penthouse for the media and stakeholders alike.
National and local stakeholders from the government and private sector, the engineering community, property developers, the academe, and the insurance industry may utilize these products as a reference in the seismic design of horizontal and vertical structures, disaster risk reduction, community preparedness, business continuity, and in quick recovery immediately after a destructive earthquake.
The distribution of physical copies of the products, along with the Hiligaynon version of the “How Safe is My House” flyer entitled “Hilway sa Peligro Bala Ang Akon Balay,” will provide vital information to the general public on earthquake preparedness and house safety measures.
The “public exhibit” at the Office of the Building Official will further enable stakeholders and concerned citizens to appreciate and understand the information and recommendations.
In line with the government’s commitment to accessibility and information dissemination, digital copies of all three products will be made available for free download on the official websites of DOST-PHIVOLCS (https://www.phivolcs.dost.gov.ph/) and of the Iloilo City Government (https://iloilocity.gov.ph/).
Building Risk Assessment Maps serve as blueprints for resilience. They enable us to design and construct buildings and infrastructure that can withstand the toughest challenges, making our cities and towns more robust.
The significance of Building Risk Assessment Maps cannot be overstated. They provide the data and insights needed to allocate resources wisely, prioritize safety measures, and ultimately save lives during disasters.
Excellent blog here!
Building Risk Assessment Maps are like a GPS for disaster preparedness. They help us navigate potential risks and find safer paths to protect lives and property.
The saying ‘knowledge is power’ holds true when it comes to Building Risk Assessment Maps. By identifying vulnerabilities and hazards, we can take strategic steps to mitigate risks and safeguard our communities.
In a world where natural disasters and emergencies can strike unexpectedly, Building Risk Assessment Maps are our proactive shield. They empower us to make informed decisions and reduce vulnerability.