THE cracks on the floor discovered by Pasig City Mayor Vico Sotto at the city hall have once again placed the structural integrity of buildings under the spotlight, putting urgency on the need for regular inspections.
No less than the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) admitted that an earthquake measuring at least 7.2 magnitude may strike at any time and that we are racing against time insofar as preparations are concerned.
Citing the continuing study of the Japan International Cooperation Agency, Phivolcs admits many structures in the greater Manila Area would not be able to withstand the possible catastrophic destruction that can be brought by the Big One.
To cut the rhetoric, Metro Manila should brace for a doomsday scenario that will see the National Capital Region and adjoining provinces turn into ground zero – no more skyscrapers, bridges, power, water or communication.
What’s worse is the projected 50,000 casualties, or even more.
The biggest chunk of the casualties could be those billeted or working in tall buildings, whose structural integrity remains suspect.
While people are living under the impression that newer buildings are sturdier, there are some points to ponder – massive corruption in public infrastructure.
Maybe most buildings in Metro Manila are compliant with the National Building Code. But would those be able to stand its ground when the ground starts to shudder?
First and foremost, there is no such thing as an earthquake-proof building, only earthquake-resistant ones which could withstand strong temblors but still sustain some damage, cracks on the walls, the beams.
However, older buildings constructed with older materials should be checked, analyzed, and upgraded to comply with the present building code.
Sadly though, building officials don’t do regular structural integrity checks. Worse, structural certification comes in cheap if sourced from the corrupt building officials – for which the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) in February this year sought billions for assessment for structural integrity and retrofitting of about 5,980 public buildings across the country.
The figure includes 4,000 public schools, 351 health facilities, 1,180 public buildings and 402 local government edifices.
The truth is that corruption is one reason for shoddy or unsafe public structures, where as much as 30 percent of the budget goes to bribes.
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