Reducing risk, severity of damage when ‘The Big One’ strikes

BY MANILA BULLETIN

Apr 2, 2025 02:55 AM 

 

The recent series of devastating earthquakes in Myanmar, Thailand, and Tonga should serve as harsh reminders of the vulnerability of seismic hotspots like the Philippines. These events highlight the unpredictability and catastrophic consequences of earthquakes, especially in countries like ours, which sit along the Pacific Ring of Fire. 

With the devastating effects of the tremors, we must consider the inevitable: the West Valley Fault which is primed for another major earthquake or the so-called “The Big One.” With its potential to wreak havoc on Metro Manila and surrounding provinces, the question remains: Are we truly ready?
A study of the West Valley Fault conducted by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) in 2004 showed that in a worst case scenario, a 7.2-magnitude quake in Metro Manila would cause severe damage to infrastructure and result in a death toll of over 30,000 to 50,000 and over 160,000 serious injuries.

With this in mind, the government must prioritize and accelerate its efforts to prepare the country for the eventuality of a large-scale earthquake. One of the most critical aspects of this preparation lies in strengthening our infrastructure. A significant issue is that many of our buildings are still not built to withstand the magnitude of tremors expected from an earthquake along the West Valley Fault. While modern regulations call for earthquake-resistant construction, enforcement is often inconsistent. Buildings and infrastructures must be thoroughly assessed, reinforced, and, where necessary, retrofitted to meet seismic standards.

To address this, government agencies such as the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council must not only intensify inspections but also impose stricter penalties for non-compliance with building codes. Ensuring that all new constructions adhere to earthquake-resilient designs is essential, but the government's efforts should not end there. Retrofitting old and poorly constructed buildings in key areas, particularly in Metro Manila where the population density is highest, should be an urgent priority. The recent earthquake in Tonga, which caused only minor damage despite being a magnitude 7.0 event, underscores the importance of earthquake-proofing even for the most resilient infrastructure.

Local government units must be proactive in conducting public awareness campaigns to educate citizens on the risks and responses in case of an earthquake. This includes teaching people how to evacuate safely, recognize early warning signs, and take shelter during tremors. Schools, hospitals, and offices should conduct regular drills and simulations to prepare the public for "The Big One." With the knowledge that the Philippines is constantly at risk of earthquakes above magnitude 7, public education becomes an essential part of disaster readiness. 

Preparation should extend beyond knowledge. Every Filipino household must have an emergency plan in place, including readily accessible emergency kits with basic supplies such as water, food, first-aid, flashlights, and batteries. Families should also identify safe spaces within their homes—areas that will offer the most protection in the event of a quake. This personal preparedness can significantly reduce panic and confusion when disaster strikes.
The reality of preparing for “The Big One” is that it requires long-term commitment and substantial investment. By ensuring buildings adhere to regulations, strengthening emergency preparedness, and fostering a culture of resilience, we can minimize the impact of such a catastrophic event.

The clock is ticking. Every delay in strengthening our infrastructure or educating our citizens about earthquake preparedness moves us closer to the inevitable. Therefore, we must become proactive in our efforts to protect lives and property. With the right policies, rigorous enforcement, and a unified approach to disaster preparedness, we can reduce the risk and severity of damage when the "Big One" inevitably strikes.
 

Eid’l Fitr: Faith, unity and resilience

BY MANILA BULLETIN

Apr 1, 2025 00:02 AM

  

---

 

As the crescent moon marks the end of Ramadan, Filipino Muslims across the nation join the global Islamic community in celebrating Eid’l Fitr. More than a joyous occasion of thanksgiving, this sacred festival is a testament to faith, self-discipline and communal harmony. In the Philippines where religious diversity is a defining characteristic, the observance of Eid’l Fitr provides an opportunity for reflection on unity amid differences and resilience in the face of ongoing challenges.

This year’s Eid’l Fitr comes at a  time when the country is navigating complex socio-economic and political realities. The persistent struggle against inflation, the need for inclusive economic recovery, and the pursuit of lasting peace in Mindanao all shape the backdrop of this significant  religious celebration. Against these realities, the principles embodied in Ramadan — sacrifice, charity, and spiritual renewal — offer lessons that extend beyond the Muslim community and resonate with the broader Filipino society.

The economic hardships experienced by many Filipinos, including the Muslim communities in Mindanao, add deeper meaning to the concept of zakat or charitable giving, a pillar of Islam emphasized during Ramadan and Eid. With inflation continuing to impact basic commodities and employment opportunities still uncertain for many, the spirit of generosity and social responsibility takes on greater urgency.  Acts of kindness — whether through corporate social responsibility programs, government assistance, or individual goodwill — are essential in alleviating the burden on vulnerable sectors.

Micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), a backbone of the Philippine economy and a major source of livelihood in Mindanao, need stronger support. The government effort to boost local industries, improve infrastructure, and attract investments in Muslim-majority regions must be sustained to provide long-term economic upliftment. Eid is a reminder that prosperity should be shared, and economic growth must be inclusive to be meaningful.

Eid’l Fitr is also a moment to reaffirm the nation’s commitment to peace and reconciliation. The Bangsamoro Autonomous Region (BARMM) continues to make strides in self-governance, yet challenges remain in fully implementing peace agreements and ensuring stability in conflict-prone areas. Recent security concerns, including incidents of violence and lawlessness in some Mindanao provinces, underscore the need for unwavering dedication to peace-building efforts. 

The teachings of Ramadan — patience, forgiveness, and compassion — serve as valuable guideposts in addressing historical grievances and fostering mutual understanding among Filipinos of different faiths. Interfaith dialogues, inclusive governance, and sustained development programs are critical in strengthening social cohesion and ensuring that the gains of peace are not reversed.

Beyond its religious significance, Eid’l Fitr offers a powerful reminder of the values that can unite a nation: empathy, resilience, and hope. At a time when political divisions and economic difficulties test the collective spirit, the lessons of Ramadan provide a blueprint for national renewal.

As Filipino Muslims gather for communal prayers and break their fast with their loved ones, it is a call for al citizens  — regardless of faith — to embrace the virtues of tolerance and shared humanity. Let this Eid be not only a celebration of triumph over personal trials but also an inspiration for a nation striving for unity, prosperity and peace.

‘Toward zero waste in fashion and textiles’

BY MANILA BULLETIN

Mar 30, 2025 00:01 AM

  

---

 

There is a global waste crisis that is driving the planet toward destruction.  It is fueled by man’s unsustainable production and consumption practices which waste management facilities are ill-equipped to handle.

We are familiar with how we consume and dispose things, lured by constant advertising that touches the emotion, and presents every new product as a necessary item. That emotion to buy — and eventually dispose — products generate from 2.1 billion to 2.3 billion tons of municipal solid waste annually. Every year the figure increases and the annual waste generation will hit 3.8 billion tons by 2050 if no urgent action is done now.

Today, March 30, is International Day of Zero Waste, declared by the United Nations General Assembly on Dec. 14, 2022, with a resolution following other high-level decisions focused on pollution, such as the UN Environment Assembly resolution “End plastic pollution: towards an internationally legally binding instrument.”

This year, the theme focuses on “Toward zero waste in fashion and textiles.” According to the UN statement, clothing production doubled from 2000 to 2015, producing 92 million tons of textile waste globally which produces two to eight percent of global greenhouse gas emissions.

“This equates to a garbage truck full of clothing incinerated or sent to landfills every second.” 

This problem is clearly a waste pollution crisis and requires systemic change through sustainable production and consumption, and circular solutions. A zero-waste approach is key to this transition.

Again, consumers are reminded to reuse, repair, and recycle. “Shifting away from fast fashion and investing in durable, high-quality clothing not only conserves resources but also honors traditional sustainability approaches,” the UN advised.

Government and private sector cooperation is needed to manage the global waste pollution problem through a zero-waste approach.

Designing products that are durable, repairable, and recyclable is a responsibility that the private sector should take on.  The producers should embrace “circular business models that curb chemical pollution, reduce production volumes, use sustainable materials, and help rebuild biodiversity. Innovation and accountability should guide business strategies.”

Most of all, governments play a critical role by enforcing Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) schemes, regulating harmful chemicals, investing in recycling infrastructure, and incentivizing sustainable business models to drive the transition to a circular economy.

Each citizen needs to contribute to the goal of achieving zero-waste. Start by doubling the number of times a garment is worn. That would reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 44 percent! 

The UN has made a strong statement to make people realize that their decisions on consumption habits contribute to the solution of waste pollution which threatens the health of mankind. Waste pollution costs the global economy hundreds of billions of dollars every year. And it aggravates the triple planetary crisis: the crisis of climate change, the crisis of nature, land and biodiversity loss, and the crisis of pollution and waste.

Why the Philippines must act on climate change now

BY ANNA MAE LAMENTILLO

Mar 28, 2025 08:02 AM

  

---

NIGHT OWL

 

Climate change is no longer a distant threat looming on the horizon — it is a present reality demanding immediate, unified action. In 2024 alone, we have witnessed an unprecedented surge in ocean temperatures, illustrating just how rapidly and dramatically our planet is changing. Global temperatures have soared past the critical 1.5°C threshold, a milestone scientists have long cautioned we should avoid crossing to prevent catastrophic climate impacts. 

We have also seen carbon dioxide (CO2) levels spike to their highest in 800,000 years, underscoring the deep human imprint on our environment. These statistics are more than mere numbers; they are warnings, telling us that the decisions we make today will shape the world for future generations. 

One stark indicator of the urgency we face is how fast sea levels are rising. Satellite measurements reveal that the rate of sea level rise has doubled since such monitoring began, placing coastal communities at greater risk of flooding and land loss. Coupled with the largest three-year loss of glacier mass ever recorded—between 2022 and 2024—these trends paint an unsettling picture of what the future might hold if we continue along our current trajectory. 

Ice sheets, glaciers, and polar regions act like the Earth’s cooling system, reflecting sunlight back into space. As ice mass diminishes, more heat is absorbed by our planet, further fueling the warming cycle. This vicious cycle intensifies other climate-related challenges, from droughts and extreme storms to surging ocean temperatures that threaten marine life. 

The second-lowest extent of Antarctic sea ice on record, also documented recently, is another glaring example of our planet’s imbalance. The cryosphere, encompassing all frozen water on Earth, is profoundly sensitive to temperature changes. When these critical systems are disrupted, there can be ripple effects worldwide, such as altered ocean currents, shifting weather patterns, and diminishing freshwater supplies. These impacts are not confined to the poles. In a connected world, distress in one region eventually sends shockwaves across the globe, reinforcing the reality that climate change is not someone else’s problem; it belongs to us all.

Nowhere is this more evident than in nations like the Philippines, one of the most vulnerable countries to climate change. An archipelago prone to typhoons, storm surges, and rising seas, the Philippines is on the front lines of climate-induced disasters. Storms like Super Typhoon Haiyan (Yolanda) in 2013 offered a horrifying preview of what ever-intensifying tropical cyclones might look like in a warmer future. 

Flooding, agricultural destruction, and infrastructural damage threaten the economy and displace countless families, ultimately perpetuating cycles of poverty. The Philippines’ geographical and socio-economic vulnerability should serve as a clarion call for the international community: no country is immune to the impacts of a warming world, and those with fewer resources are hit hardest.

The real question before us is not whether we can act but whether we will act swiftly and decisively. Transitioning to clean energy, preserving and expanding natural carbon sinks like forests and mangroves, and prioritizing resilience in infrastructure are essential steps. Large-scale systemic changes — shifting from fossil fuels to renewables, integrating sustainable agricultural practices, and implementing robust climate policies — need global cooperation to succeed. 

Equally vital is local action: citizens making environmentally conscious lifestyle changes, communities uniting to protect natural habitats, and youth raising their voices in climate movements.

We must remember we are the guardians of this planet for the next generation. The future they inherit depends on the steps we take today. Each fraction of a degree of warming that we prevent will mean fewer storms with the destructive power of Haiyan, fewer communities flooded, and fewer families displaced. We are living through a pivotal moment in history.  

By recognizing the Philippine experience as a microcosm of global climate vulnerability, we underscore our collective responsibility to address climate change — now, not only for our sakes, but for our children, grandchildren, and every generation that follows.

Breaking barriers, building community: The women behind Leading Ladies

BY JANE KINGSU-CHENG

Mar 28, 2025 01:08 AM

  

---

Rica Peralejo, Cat Ilacad, and Rachelle Stern

Working non-stop for over two decades and experiencing an unexpected slowdown during the 2020 lockdown, Cat Ilacad, founder and CEO of Posh Nails Inc., and Rachelle Stern, CEO of Alphabetsoup Inc., found themselves reflecting deeply and engaging in meaningful conversations.

"During a late-night call, as we washed away our anxieties, Rachelle and I found ourselves talking about what else we could do. I told her how, when I was starting Posh Nails, I wished I had a small group of people to talk to — a place to share suppliers, business ideas, and simply rant about the challenges that business owners face. I never managed to form that group. She also felt the same way,” shares Cat on how the community group Leading Ladies was founded in 2021. 

"At a time when many women were feeling isolated, struggling to launch new ventures, or simply in need of a supportive ear during challenging times, we created this space. Leading Ladies is all about fostering an empowering community where women can connect, share experiences, and support each other’s growth—both personally and professionally,” adds Rachelle. 

Manila Bulletin sat down with Cat and Rachelle as they shared their journey as co-founders of Leading Ladies and how their vision continues to empower women.

The ‘Ladies Who Launch’ event in October 2024 marked Leading Ladies’ first in-person gathering.

The collaborator
Cat Ilacad founded Posh Nails, Inc., a nail salon, beauty, and wellness business, in 2002. Today, the company boasts 35 branches nationwide and offers franchise opportunities to loyal clients who have come to love the salon.

Over the years, Cat has worked closely with many women who face the same challenges of balancing work and personal life while striving to break free from societal expectations. “But I’ve also seen the power of resilience, collaboration, and mentorship. When women support each other, success comes faster and feels more meaningful,” she says.

This belief is at the heart of Leading Ladies. Cat emphasizes that one of their main goals is to provide a community where women can share their journeys, including resources, contacts, and lessons learned—without gatekeeping. 

“Many of us had to figure things out the hard way, and we wanted to remove that barrier. We achieved this by building a culture of generosity and launching events where real conversations happen,” she points out.

The cheerleader
Rachelle Stern, chief executive officer and president of the advertising and marketing agency Alphabetsoup, Inc., has faced her fair share of discrimination at work. “It often takes extra effort to be taken seriously and have our expertise recognized,” she shares—a frustration many women experience. 

She attributes her resilience to her work environment, which celebrates women. “It’s inspiring to see my fellow female colleagues excel in their respective fields. It truly makes a difference when women support one another, rather than pulling each other down,” Rachelle says.

“My hope is that every member feels valued as a woman entrepreneur and leader. Through this network, they’ll discover fresh ideas, exciting collaborations, and new opportunities for growth,” she continues. “At the same time, I wanted this community to foster both personal and professional growth, helping women rediscover their passions and achieve holistic success.” 

The second ‘Ladies Who Launch’ event, held in December 2024, welcomed a new wave of attendees.

The power of three
In 2024, celebrity-turned-advocate for family, fitness, and faith, Rica Peralejo, joined Leading Ladies as its third co-founder. Since then, the trio has had a busy and productive last quarter of the year.

What began as online gatherings during the lockdown evolved into their first in-person events late last year. "Ladies Who Launch" made its debut in October 2024, followed by a second event in December—held by popular demand. Both events sold out in less than two weeks. 

“It’s all about empowering women to turn their ideas into action. It’s a space where we dive into conversations about building meaningful connections, creating sustainable businesses, and learning directly from other women,” explains Cat.

Reflecting on the success of these two events, Rachelle knew they were making a difference, but she didn’t fully grasp the profound impact their efforts had on the community.

“I was blown away by the energy—women who hadn’t even met before came together, and it felt like we were all on the same page. That incredible experience fueled my desire to give even more to our community and push Leading Ladies to new heights,” she says.

Celebrate and empower

Now, three months after their back-to-back sold-out events, Leading Ladies is celebrating Women’s Month this March with their biggest gathering yet. Cat shares, “We knew we had to go bigger. We asked ourselves—how can we truly make an impact?”

Enter “She Shines”—a one-day summit offering attendees a range of activities based on their interests. These include inspirational keynotes, interactive workshops, networking opportunities, pampering sessions, and much more.

Hosting their biggest event this month holds a special significance for Rachelle. “Women’s Month is an opportunity to celebrate the many facets of womanhood. It’s about recognizing that we’re leading ladies—in our homes, workplaces, families, and beyond,” she explains.

Cat adds, “You are stronger, braver, and more capable than you realize. The dreams you hold in your heart are possible, but you don’t have to chase them alone. Surround yourself with people who believe in you, lift you higher, and remind you of your own power when you start to doubt it. Take bold steps, embrace challenges, and trust that every small move forward brings you closer to the life you envision. Success isn’t just about working hard—it’s about lifting each other up and rising together.”

Improved public transportation enhances quality of life

BY MANILA BULLETIN

Mar 25, 2025 02:32 PM

  

---

 

In a decisive move to overhaul the Philippines’ transportation sector, Department of Transportation (DOTr) Secretary Vince Dizon has implemented a series of reforms aimed at enhancing mass transit systems and restoring public trust. His initiatives—including the affirmation of the EDSA Busway’s importance, the consideration of extended operating hours for Metro Rail Transit (MRT) lines, and the swift dismissal of personnel involved in the recent ‘tanim-bala’ incident—underscore a commitment to efficient, reliable, and safe public transportation. 

The EDSA Busway has become an integral part of Metro Manila’s daily commute, serving millions of passengers annually. Despite discussions about its potential removal, Secretary Dizon has firmly defended its necessity. He emphasized that eliminating the bus way is not an option, especially given the current insufficiency in mass transit options. Instead, the focus is on improving and upgrading the existing infrastructure to ensure smoother travel for commuters. 

Plans are underway to enhance the EDSA Busway by replicating successful models from stations like North EDSA and Ortigas, which feature dedicated concourses donated by the private sector. Construction is anticipated to begin in the latter half of the year, with operations expected to commence next year.  These upgrades aim to provide a more efficient and comfortable commuting experience, reflecting the administration’s commitment to continuous improvement.

Recognizing the evolving needs of commuters, has directed that the MRT 3 extend the MRT 3’s operations by one hour and to deploy more trains during peak hours. This initiative addresses concerns from passengers, particularly those working late hours, who find the current 10 p.m. last trip limiting.
In a move to uphold integrity and passenger safety, Secretary Dizon acted swiftly in response to a recent ‘tanim-bala’ (bullet-planting) incident at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA). A 69-year-old passenger reported that security personnel allegedly planted a bullet casing in her luggage, reminiscent of past scams that have tarnished the airport’s reputation. The DOTr responded by terminating three employees from the Office of Transportation Security (OTS) involved in the incident.  This decisive action signals a zero-tolerance policy toward corruption and malpractice, aiming to restore public confidence in airport security protocols.

Secretary Dizon’s proactive measures reflect a broader vision for the Philippines’ transportation infrastructure: one that prioritizes efficiency, accessibility, and public trust. By prioritizing essential services like the EDSA Busway, extending MRT 3 operating hours and increasing fleet deployment, and enforcing strict accountability among transportation personnel, the DOTr is exemplifying responsive and responsible governance. 

Beyond making administrative adjustments, these forward-looking initiatives hold the promise of transforming daily commutes, reducing congestion, and promoting a culture of integrity within the transportation sector.

Secretary Dizon’s recent actions exemplify a commitment to addressing both the systemic challenges and immediate concerns within the Philippines’ transportation landscape. Through strategic infrastructure improvements and unwavering accountability measures, the DOTr is paving the way for a more efficient and trustworthy public transit system, ultimately enhancing the quality of life for millions of Filipinos.

Natural capital accounting: Key to environmental sustainability

BY MANILA BULLETIN

Mar 24, 2025 10:18 AM 

 

Last January, Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo Loyzaga of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) issued a landmark Administrative Order establishing an institutional mechanism for Natural Capital Accounting (NCA) within the department. This initiative aims to systematize the measurement and accounting of environmental assets—both biotic and abiotic—including water, minerals, energy, timber, fish, ecosystem assets, biodiversity, and ecosystem services.

Natural Capital Accounting represents a paradigm shift in environmental governance. By quantifying the value of natural resources and ecosystem services, NCA integrates environmental considerations into economic planning and policy development. This approach ensures that the depletion or degradation of natural assets is accounted for, promoting sustainable resource management and long-term economic resilience.

The Philippines faces two pressing environmental issues that underscore the importance of NCA.

Historically, the Philippines was almost entirely covered with forests. However, due to deforestation and unsustainable practices, the country has lost a significant portion of its forest cover. This loss has led to habitat destruction, biodiversity loss, and disrupted ecosystem services. 

Despite being an archipelago, the Philippines grapples with water scarcity. One-third of Philippine river systems are considered suitable for public water supply, and it is estimated that by 2025, water availability will be marginal in most major cities and in eight of the 19 major river basins. Factors such as pollution, over-extraction, and watershed degradation contribute to this crisis.  

The DENR’s adoption of NCA has several critical implications.

First: informed decision-making. By providing a clear picture of the nation’s natural assets, policymakers can make informed decisions that balance economic development with environmental sustainability.

Second: resource management. Accurate accounting of resources like water, minerals, and forests enables better management practices, ensuring that exploitation does not exceed regeneration capacities.

Ecosystem preservation. Valuing ecosystem services—such as water purification, flood regulation, and carbon sequestration—highlights their importance, fostering initiatives aimed at their preservation and restoration.

To enhance the effectiveness of NCA, the Philippines can draw inspiration from international best practices.

Australia’s Environmental-Economic Accounts: Australia has developed comprehensive environmental-economic accounts that integrate environmental data with economic indicators, aiding in sustainable policy development. 

Botswana’s Wealth Accounting: Botswana incorporates natural capital into its national accounting systems, ensuring that natural resource depletion is reflected in economic assessments.

Costa Rica’s Payment for Ecosystem Services (PES): Costa Rica has implemented PES schemes where landowners are compensated for maintaining forest cover, recognizing the value of ecosystem services such as carbon sequestration and biodiversity conservation.

Implementing NCA in the Philippines may encounter challenges, including data availability, capacity constraints, and the need for inter-agency coordination. To address these, the following steps are essential:

First: Capacity building involves investing in training and resources to equip DENR personnel and stakeholders with the skills necessary for effective NCA implementation.

Second: Data integration calls for establishing robust data collection and management systems to ensure accurate and up-to-date environmental information.

Third: Stakeholder engagement promotes collaboration with local communities, private sectors, and other government agencies to foster a shared commitment to natural capital preservation.

The DENR’s Administrative Order on Natural Capital Accounting marks a transformative step toward sustainable environmental governance in the Philippines. By recognizing and valuing the nation’s natural assets, this initiative lays the foundation for policies that harmonize economic growth with ecological integrity. Embracing NCA not only addresses current environmental challenges but also ensures that future generations inherit a resilient and bountiful natural heritage.