The Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) led a crucial geotechnical survey of the cracks and landslide site at a mountain slope in Camp Valdez, Barangay Mambaroto, Sipalay City in Negros Occidental on Sunday, Oct. 26.
The comprehensive assessment utilized advanced Georesistivity and Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) technology to investigate subsurface conditions and mitigate future risks, the Sipalay City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO) reported.
Georesistivity and GPR are key non-invasive methods used to map underground structures, detect anomalies, and determine critical soil characteristics.
“The data gathered from this survey is essential… It will help us definitively map the area’s geology, detect possible underground anomalies, and most importantly, guide the implementation of appropriate mitigation and safety measures to protect the affected community,” the CDRRMO said.
The findings are expected to inform the city’s future disaster preparedness and land-use planning, ensuring the safety of residents living near the unstable slope, it said.
The Sipalay city government is waiting for the official MGB report, which will be the basis for immediate and long-term actions in Camp Valdez, the CDRRMO said.
The MGB headed the inter-office collaboration, which included the CDRRMO, the City Engineering Office (CEO), the Environment and Natural Resources Office (ENRO), the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), the Philippine National Police (PNP), and the Barangay Council of Mambaroto.*