San Fernando City: Ninety-five evacuation centers in 13 local government units (LGUs) in La Union have been identified to help ensure the safety of residents in case of a tsunami. The localities involved are Bangar, Luna, Balaoan, Bacnotan, San Juan, San Fernando City, Bauang, Caba, Aringay, Agoo, Santo Tomas, Rosario, and Sudipen, which have areas susceptible to tsunamis and flooding.

According to Philippines News Agency, the La Union Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO) has stated that 396,572 individuals from 247 villages in these localities could be affected by a tsunami if a movement in the Manila Trench results in a magnitude 8 earthquake. The provincial government has been coordinating with national agencies for additional monitoring systems to mitigate potential risks.

Governor Raphaelle Veronica David highlighted that San Fernando City is considered high-risk based on their recent meeting with the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs). She emphasized the presence of early detection warning systems at the city hall and the provincial capitol, with plans to extend the reach of these systems to coastal areas to ensure comprehensive coverage.

David assured that disaster management offices remain proactive, addressing threats from tsunamis, earthquakes, and other disasters. From December 17 to 22, Phivolcs recorded at least 10 earthquakes, with magnitudes ranging from 3 to 5.3, about 100 kilometers northwest of Santa Catalina in Ilocos Sur, linked to movements along the Manila Trench, a known seismic hazard.

Phivolcs has identified areas at risk and possible tsunami runup heights, including Vigan City in Ilocos Sur with a height of 14.7 meters, San Fernando City in La Union at 11 meters, Bolinao in Pangasinan at 11.6 meters, Laoag City in Ilocos Norte at 10 meters, and Pagudpud in Ilocos Norte at 7.6 meters.