Bacolod City Mobilizes Emergency Response After Nearby Earthquake
In a swift response to seismic activity in the region, Bacolod City Mayor Greg Gasataya has ordered the immediate activation of the city's Rapid Damage Assessment and Needs Analysis (RDANA) teams. This directive follows a magnitude 4.8 earthquake that struck Iloilo on the evening of Monday, March 2, 2026, sending tremors across neighboring areas.
Quake Felt in Bacolod, No Major Incidents Reported
Mayor Gasataya confirmed that the earthquake was felt at Intensity 2 within Bacolod City, indicating light shaking that is perceptible to most people indoors. Despite the noticeable tremors, the mayor reassured residents that no major incidents or significant damage have been reported as of the initial assessments.
"As of this time, no major incidents have been reported. We advise everyone to remain calm, stay vigilant for possible aftershocks, and await updates from official City Government channels," Mayor Gasataya stated, emphasizing the importance of public composure and reliance on verified information.
School Safety Assessments Underway
A critical focus of the emergency response has been on educational facilities, particularly those hosting participants of the Negros Island Region Athletic Association Meet (Niraam) 2026. The City Engineer’s Office has conducted rapid inspections, declaring 16 out of 17 schools and education centers in Bacolod City safe for occupancy by 9:58 p.m. on Monday.
However, inspections at Negros Occidental High School are still ongoing to ensure full structural integrity. Mayor Gasataya extended this caution to private institutions, urging them to conduct immediate visual inspections of their buildings.
"We highly encourage private institutions to immediately conduct visual inspections to ensure structural integrity for the safety of students and employees," he emphasized, highlighting the proactive measures needed to safeguard community welfare.
Ongoing Monitoring and Community Preparedness
The activated RDANA teams are now actively monitoring the situation across Bacolod City, assessing any potential impacts from the earthquake. Their role includes:
- Evaluating infrastructure for signs of damage
- Identifying immediate needs for affected areas
- Coordinating with local agencies for a unified response
This coordinated effort underscores Bacolod's preparedness for natural disasters, ensuring that response mechanisms are in place to address emergencies promptly. Residents are reminded to stay informed through official channels and report any concerns to local authorities as assessments continue.
