Makati places earthquake recording devices in 27 public buildings

The Makati City government has placed 27 accelerographs or earthquake recording devices at public buildings in earthquake-vulnerable areas.

Mayor Abigail Binay said devices were placed in areas, including those traversed by the West Valley Fault and liquefaction-prone barangays.

Binay said the accelerograph would continuously monitor and record movements and vibrations on the ground that may cause structural damage to promote public safety and structural integrity.

It will provide real-time seismic data that enables building administrators to determine the need for evacuation and the establishment of building security measures.

"We have prioritized our schools and facilities located in high-risk areas for the installation of accelerographs as part of continuing efforts to build our resilience to disasters," Binay said.

Five units each are installed in Makati City Hall complex and the University of Makati, three each at East Rembo Elementary School and Rizal Elementary School, two at Comembo Elementary School, one unit each in Fort Bonifacio Elementary and High School, Bangkal Elementary School, San Isidro National High School, San Antonio Village Elementary School, Maximo Estrella Elementary School, and Jose Magsaysay Elementary School, East Rembo Health Center, and Ospital ng Makati.

Binay also urged owners and administrators of private buildings in Makati to install earthquake recording instruments, which the national government requires for buildings over 50 meters high.

"The recent strong earthquake that struck Syria and Turkey should be a wake-up call to everyone. We must heed the dire warnings of experts and brace ourselves for the projected 7.5 magnitude earthquake that can occur anytime with the West Valley Fault already ripe for movement," she added. —Sherylin Untalan/NB, GMA Integrated News