The Coming of the Philippine Geohazard Maps

According to the Philippine Information Agency (PIA), the geohazard mapping of Zamboanga done by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources Mines and Geosciences Bureau (DENR-MGB) in Region IX is almost complete. The geohazard maps will be useful in identifying places in the region that will threaten people's safety.

Emma Deverala, the Information Officer of MGB-IX said that the geohazard mapping which started in 2005, is now on its final year. According to her, 87% of Zamboanga Peninsula has already been assessed by their Geohazard Assessment Team headed by Geosciences Chief Vheina Marie P. Quintana. It is expected that they will fully accomplish the mapping of the remaining municipalities and cities in the region like the Triple S-B or the municipalities of Siocon, Sirawai, Sibuco, Baliguian, in Zamboanga del Norte, Isabela City in Basilan, and finally Zamboanga City hopefully by November.

Deverala hinted that the entire peninsula is prone to hazards like landslide and that they have already spoken to the different LGUs of the affected municipalities to give recommendations on how to prevent or mitigate threats.

The MGB in Region IX is also conducting intensive information dissemination campaigns to increase the awareness of people in the area regarding the hazards and to instruct them on what to do to ensure safety.

The landslide in Southern Leyte last February 17, 2006 killed thousands of people and because of this the geohazard mapping program was given more emphasis and support by the national government through the National Disaster Coordinating Council. The program also includes the identification and characterization of the types of geohazards present, particularly on the mass movement and flooding events in the Philippines.

According to Deverela upon the completion of the program, the bureau will provide geohazard maps that will identify what type of geohazard a particular area is prone to. It will also contain information on the location of barangay centers and other important landmarks. It will also be useful as a blue print for developing disaster risk management plans and programs of local government units, urban and rural development planners, other stakeholders and the communities.

Source:

http://www.educationgis.com/2010/08/philippines-geohazard-maps-soon-to-be.html

Image Source:

http://www.globalink.net.ph/~denrmgb5/mancon05.htm