• THERESA MAE DULMAN
The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) has located and confirmed the onland extension of the fault system responsible for the Magnitude 6.9 Northern Cebu Earthquake that occurred on September 30.
The PHIVOLCS Quick Response Team (QRT) identified a segment of the newly-named Bogo Bay Fault in Sitio Looc, Barangay Nailon, Bogo City.
Initial field assessment revealed a significant ground rupture, with initial field mapping recording approximately 200 meters of the break. However, drone surveys indicate the total surface rupture may extend up to 1.5 kilometers.
The ground displacement observed exhibited a right-lateral movement and was contained within a two-meter-wide deformation zone, showing evidence of fault scarps and ground cracks.
PHIVOLCS noted that further analysis is underway to determine the exact total length of the ground rupture.
The intensity of the 6.9 earthquake last Tuesday were also felt in Bacolod City and Negros Occidental.
AFTERSHOCK WARNINGS
In light of the discovery, PHIVOLCS is maintaining its warning for residents to remain on high alert for possible strong aftershocks.
The agency advised the public to avoid damaged structures that may collapse, know and use established evacuation routes to reach safe areas, and rely only on official agency sources for information.
The identification of this fault extension is critical for updating local seismic hazard assessments and improving disaster preparedness in Northern Cebu.*
