The Philippines is not new to disasters. Unfortunately, typhoons are not the only problem that our nation face every year. Earthquakes are also common in our country since we are located in the Pacific Ring of Fire, an area where a large number of volcanic activities and earthquake happens.
In 2013, our country was shaken with a 7.2 magnitude quake that caused damages to Cebu and Bohol. Lives were taken because buildings and other properties were not able to withstand the intensity of the earthquake. Even though the earthquake was nobody’s fault, it’s still for the better if our buildings are stable and can surely stand future disasters. Especially Metro Manila, a place where sky-high condominiums are the most common sight.
Metro Manila is a mega city that has its own fault line called, the Marikina Valley Fault System. It affects top cities like Marikina, Rizal, Taguig City, Makati, Parañaque, and Muntinlupa. Having a fault line is nothing to worry about – there are tons of other cities that have fault lines too. New York City is an example. What we all should worry about is how safe our buildings are and how they can protect us in case disaster strikes.
Following the National Building Code
All developers of condominiums and other properties must adhere to the laws of the National Building Code to ensure the safety of future owners of these properties. Signed by former president Ferdinand Marcos, the National Building Code can help developers know which will work best for a country like the Philippines.
After a 7.8-magnitude earthquake that hit North Luzon in 1992, a major update was created to the code. The National Structural Code was developed, requiring all developers to double check the location of the property and its load combination.
Certification of developers
Certification to engineers, architects, and developers are a must in order to appease the mind of home buyers. It is very important the real estate agents will lead home buyers to trustworthy developers. According to Housing and Land Use Regulatory Board (HLURB) subdivision developers are now required to get certification from Philvocs to ensure that their properties are in the safe zone.
Annual monitoring
The government also planned an annual structural monitoring of buildings in key areas. Unfortunately, not all of the structures can be assessed by the local government right away. The government asks the citizens to do the check up themselves.
How can ordinary citizens know if their properties are safe? Below are some tips that you have to remember.
1. It was built after 1992
There have been tons of disasters that happened in 1992. Buildings that are built before this year already have damages. Check how old your property is and quickly do a remodeling.
2. Built by trustworthy developers
You’ve got nothing to worry about if your property is built by top developers. Check out our portal to see a list of the most dependable developers in the country today.
3. Your property has a box-shaped structure
According to Association of Structural Engineers of the Philippines (ASEP), properties that have box-shaped structures are most disaster-risk free.
4. Durable materials are used
The concrete and steel bars combination is the best way to ensure that your property will be able to withstand any natural disaster.
In conclusion, the Philippines still has a long run to go in ensuring that properties are disaster-free. Good urban planning and updated building codes can help in protecting our people in future catastrophes.
Image source: http://www.persquare.com.ph/for-sale/condominium-ncr-metro-manila-makati/the-residences-at-greenbelt-condo-for-sale-1-bedroom-68sqm-csb1973_89381 – LemonTree Real Estate Inc.
