Manila, Feb. 6 -- Office of Civil Defense (OCD) administrator Undersecretary Ariel Nepomuceno reiterated his call for a more stringent enforcement of the National Building Code and the cessation of construction in prohibited areas of the country, to greatly enhance the Philippines' earthquake preparedness.

In a statement Wednesday, Nepomuceno said these steps are crucial in mitigating the impact of the "Big One" or the anticipated 7.2 magnitude that could devastate Metro Manila and surrounding provinces, potentially resulting in 30,000 to 50,000 fatalities.

"We have sufficient laws in place regarding the Building Code, but the challenge lies in their implementation," Nepomuceno said.

He also stressed the importance of avoiding construc...