Manila, Oct. 5 -- Recently, a magnitude 6.9 earthquake hit the province of Cebu. Other than toppling buildings and killing some civilians, the said tremor has triggered new interest or concern on the topic of "The Big One." The so-called "Big One" is the projected and overdue magnitude 7.2 or stronger earthquake expected to hit Metro Manila in the near future.

The "Big One" is expected to have its center along the West Valley Fault, which historically has its major movements occurring every 400 to 600 years. Since its last activity happened around 1658 then scientists are saying that the probability of experiencing a major jolt along the said line is increasing every year. Are we ready for the big one?

There was a 2004 study conducted b...