STO TOMAS City, Batangas — No injuries or property damage were reported in Batangas following the magnitude 4.6 earthquake that struck the province on Saturday afternoon, according to the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO).
Dr. Amor Banuelos-Calayan, the head of PDRRMO, stated that the earthquake, which originated tectonically in the town of Tingloy, was closely monitored in collaboration with each town’s Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO).
Intensity IV was observed in various towns, including Balayan, Bauan, the City of Calaca, Calatagan, Lemery, Mabini, San Luis, San Pascual, and Taal. Banuelos-Calayan urged locals to familiarize themselves with earthquake preparedness guidelines, emphasizing the importance of awareness before, during, and after such events.
In a separate interview, Batangas Governor Hermilando Mandanas called for increased public vigilance, noting a rise in the frequency of tremors over the past two years.
Mandanas emphasized the need for preparedness, revealing that the provincial government would distribute over 170 multi-purpose vehicles equipped with ambulance facilities.
This initiative is part of the broader effort to enhance readiness, with 400 rescue vehicles already distributed in recent years.
Highlighting the commitment to the safety of both residents and tourists, Mandanas mentioned that the Provincial Assistance for Community Development Office (PACD) conducted an orientation for 186 barangays this month on the use of multi-purpose rescue vans (MRVs).
The governor stressed the province’s dedication to providing necessary preparations and ensuring the security and safety of the community in the face of potential disasters.
(By el Amigo/MNM)