02/10/2025
Mga Batang 90's Experience their first Earthquake during July 17, 1990.
Philippine Fault System
Surface creep rate distribution along the Philippine fault ...
The Philippine Fault System (PFS), also known as the Philippine Fault Zone (PFZ), is a massive, active left-lateral strike-slip fault system that runs nearly 1,200 to 1,250 kilometers through the entire Philippine archipelago, from Luzon to Mindanao. This major tectonic feature is responsible for much of the region's seismic activity, as it has generated destructive earthquakes and surface ruptures in the past.
Geological Significance: It is the largest transcurrent fault in the Philippines and plays a crucial role in the region's complex tectonic setting.
Implications
Earthquake Hazard: Due to its continuous movement and the release of energy, the PFZ is a significant source of earthquake risk for the Philippines.
Seismic Monitoring: The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) monitors the PFZ to understand its activity and provide information for disaster preparedness.
You can watch this video to learn about the different types of faults and trenches in the Philippines:
The July 16, 1990 earthquake in the Philippines was one of the most powerful and destructive earthquakes in the country's history. Here's a detailed overview:
🌍 Earthquake Overview
Date: July 16, 1990
Time: 4:26 PM local time (PST)
Magnitude: 7.7 (moment magnitude scale)
Epicenter: Near Rizal, Nueva Ecija, on the island of Luzon
Depth: Approximately 25-30 kilometers
Fault: Philippine Fault Zone – the quake occurred along a previously unknown branch of this fault.
📍 Areas Most Affected
Baguio City – suffered the worst damage due to its mountainous terrain and soft soil.
Cabanatuan City
Dagupan City
La Union
Pangasinan
Nueva Ecija
Tarlac
🧍♂️ Human Impact
Death toll: Over 1,600 people
Injuries: Approximately 3,000–5,000
Displaced: Tens of thousands
Buildings damaged or destroyed: