By Benjamin Cuaresma
MANILA — The Manila city government has launched a comprehensive inspection of schools, aging structures, and government-owned buildings as part of intensified efforts to strengthen earthquake preparedness amid persistent warnings over a potentially devastating seismic event in Metro Manila.
Mayor Francisco “Isko Moreno” Domagoso directed City Engineer Armando Andres to undertake the citywide structural assessment, emphasizing the need to ensure that public facilities remain safe and resilient against major disasters.
The order was first issued during the mayor’s regular directional meeting earlier this week and was reaffirmed on Wednesday during a meeting of the Manila City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (MCDRRMC).
Domagoso instructed city officials to prioritize the inspection of educational institutions, old buildings, and government facilities, with findings to be submitted to MCDRRMC chief Arnel Angeles for evaluation and appropriate action.
The mayor said the initiative forms part of Manila’s broader disaster readiness strategy, citing concerns over the long-feared “Big One,” a powerful earthquake that experts warn could significantly impact the National Capital Region.
“We must ensure that our public structures are safe and prepared for any eventuality,” Domagoso stressed during the council meeting.
Apart from local preparedness efforts, the mayor also directed the city’s disaster management office to coordinate with local government units and emergency agencies in areas recently affected by the magnitude 7.8 earthquake off the coast of Maasim, Sarangani.
Angeles and his team were instructed to establish contact with disaster response officials in Cotabato, General Santos City, and Sarangani Province to determine whether additional assistance from Manila would be required.
Domagoso said the capital city remains ready to mobilize resources and extend aid to affected communities in Mindanao if requested.
The mayor underscored the importance of solidarity during times of crisis, saying Manila stands prepared to support fellow Filipinos facing the aftermath of natural disasters.
“Our responsibility does not end at the city’s borders. We must always be ready to help our fellow countrymen when they need assistance,” he said.
The inspection program is expected to continue in the coming weeks as city authorities work to assess the structural integrity of key facilities and enhance Manila’s disaster resilience.
ia/xf
