Metro Manila is not the only region at risk from the so-called “Big One,” according to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs).
Phivolcs has identified a similar threat in Negros Island due to the Negros Trench, which is capable of generating a magnitude 8.2 earthquake.
Phivolcs Director Teresito Bacolcol explained that the Negros Trench is located west of Negros Island, north of the Sulu Trench, and spans approximately 400 kilometers.
If the trench moves, the resulting quake could be felt across Negros and trigger a tsunami along the western coastlines of Negros and Panay, with possible reach extending to Palawan and Zamboanga.
Bacolcol urged coastal residents to recognize natural tsunami warning signs such as strong ground shaking, sudden sea level retreat, and a roaring sound from the ocean.
He emphasized that upon experiencing any of these signs, people should immediately evacuate to higher ground and avoid wasting time taking photos.
Meanwhile, Metro Manila remains vulnerable to a magnitude 7.2 earthquake from the West Valley Fault, which is part of the region’s natural seismic cycle.