BALBUENA, Christopher Gio P.

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REACTION PAPER:
THE BIG ONE

The Big One is inevitable, it is a hypothetical earthquake with a magnitufe if 8 or greater that
is expected to happen. It is believed that such earthquake will cause great devastation to
civilization. Scientists are yet to predict earthquakes with any precision that is why no one
actually knows when “The Big One” will occur. Although impossible to predict, such quake in
the Metro Manila Wesr Valley Fault is believed to be due within our lifetimes,

A possible 7.2 earthquake is bound to happen around the corner of the West Valley Fault along
the eastern side of Metro Manila cracks, Philippine Institue of Volcanology and Seismology
(PhilVocs) warns.

Due to this, the poorly designed and constructed buildings both near and far are vulnerable to
destructions. Grounds can also be affected as well as, areas near the waters are more likely to
experience stronger shaking due to the softer ground they sit on.

Preparation still remains as the best option since earthquakes cannot be forecasted unlike
storms and typhoons. They can only be predicted by looking at the history. As stated above,
there are still no specific instruments that predicts when an earthquake will occur. All we have
now are endless possibilities.

The most important preparation measure that we could do is to make sure that infractructures
in Metro Manila are earthquake and fire ready. Including major lifelines like water and power
supply, and communication means should be strengthened. Furthermore, there should be an
efficient relief and recovery system after the earthquake.

Lastly, all we can really do is prepare and let God take care of our country when “The Big
One” hits.