MGB-7 to implement rain-induced geohazard and climate change maps

CEBU CITY, April 4 (PIA) -- The Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB-7) of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR-7) has intensified its geohazard assessment and the densification project to come up with geohazard maps using a scale of 1:10,000 to magnify critical areas. 

Recently, a team of geologists from the MGB-7 composed of Maria Elena S. Lupo, Josephine T. Aleta, and Abraham R. Lucero Jr. conducted the assessment covering 133 barangays in five cities and municipalities in Cebu province. 

MGB 7 regional director Loreto Alburo said, of the 133 barangays in Cebu province, Toledo City had the most number of barangays at 38, followed by Naga City with 28, Pinamungahan with 26 barangays, Talisay City with 22 and Minglanilla with 19 barangays. 

“This is somewhat an enhanced or improved production or version of geohazards maps as we will be providing more details on the geohazards present or observed during the assessment which cannot be represented in the 1:50,000-scale,” Alburo said. 

The team will assess the different sitios in each barangay at the same time identify possible relocation sites, he added. 

Among the details that can be found in a 1:10,000-scale geohazard map include parameters or features in the area that may affect ground stability and the type of landslides that can possibly occur in the area. 

In a related development, Alburo added that geohazards maps in a 1:50,000-scale could now be accessed and downloaded through the MGB-7 website, www.mgb7.cvis.net.ph/mgb. 

Along with the site assessment, an intensive information and education support and training will be done not only to local officials but also members of affected communities. 

To recall, MGB-7 completed in 2010 the 1:50,000-scale rapid geohazards assessment covering 3,003 barangays in Central Visayas.(MBCN/HFG-PIA7/DENR7)