Palo:The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS-DOST) has renewed its call for citizens to prepare for the possibility of a significant earthquake, known as the 'Big One,' affecting various cities and provinces, especially those along active fault lines.

According to Philippines News Agency, PHIVOLCS Director Teresito Bacolcol emphasized the importance of awareness during the 2026 Handa Pilipinas Exposition Visayas in Palo, Leyte. He stated that the 'Big One' should not be perceived as a threat only to the Greater Metro Manila Area but is a potential risk for all regions with high-magnitude earthquake vulnerabilities.

Bacolcol noted the significant role of the Philippine Fault and Philippine Trench in earthquake activity, impacting numerous areas, including Leyte Island. The Philippine Fault is an extensive strike-slip fault system running from Luzon to Mindanao, while the Philippine Trench is a major ocean trench capable of generating powerful earthquakes.

Despite the absence of destructive ground shaking since a magnitude 7.8 earthquake hit offshore southern Mindanao on June 8, Bacolcol stressed the importance of constant readiness. The Philippines experiences about 30 earthquakes daily, though most are not felt.

He advised the public to consult the HazardHunterPH website and application to assess proximity to active faults and other hazards. The nation has around 180 active faults, which have shown movement within the past 10,000 years and are expected to move again.

PHIVOLCS also encouraged the public to understand scenario-based hazards and risks, which can aid in developing appropriate disaster preparedness strategies and response actions at both community and family levels.