Manila: All areas located along the six active trenches in the country could experience an earthquake of up to 8.2 in magnitude, the head of the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) said on Tuesday.

According to Philippines News Agency, these trenches are the Philippine Trench, East Luzon Trough, Manila Trench, Negros Trench, Sulu Trench, and Cotabato Trench, as stated by Phivolcs Director Teresito Bacolcol. He explained the locations of these trenches, highlighting the potential for significant seismic activity.

A magnitude 7.8 earthquake occurred offshore near Sarangani, affecting parts of Mindanao last Monday, linked to the Cotabato Trench. Bacolcol confirmed it as the strongest earthquake in the Philippines this year. However, the record for the strongest remains a magnitude 8.1 earthquake in Mindanao on August 17, 1976.

Bacolcol clarified the extent of the Cotabato Trench, noting it is over 300 kilometers long, which explains the distance of the epicenter. He emphasized that any area along an active trench is susceptible to experiencing a strong earthquake.

Given the unpredictability of earthquakes, Bacolcol advised coastal communities to evacuate to higher ground immediately if they experience a strong tremor. He underscored the importance of recognizing natural signs of impending tsunamis, which include strong shaking, sudden changes in sea level, and a roaring sound emanating from the sea.

Bacolcol urged that if any of these signs are noticed, residents should promptly move to safer, elevated locations.