Here is a Comprehensive Guide to Evacuation Centers in Metro Manila for Earthquake Preparedness
The Philippines has been rocked by a series of powerful earthquakes in recent weeks, underscoring the urgent need for disaster readiness. On October 10, 2025, a magnitude 7.4 earthquake struck off the coast of Mindanao, triggering tsunami warnings and causing widespread panic. At least seven people were killed, and dozens of structures were damaged across Davao Oriental and surrounding provinces. Just days earlier, another deadly quake hit the central Philippines, claiming 79 lives and injuring hundreds.
Metro Manila sits atop the West Valley Fault, a major seismic zone that experts warn could trigger a devastating earthquake. According to recent estimates, such a quake could result in over 30,000 deaths and more than 100,000 injuries. In response, the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) has developed a strategic plan to streamline rescue and evacuation efforts—starting with the designation of evacuation centers in Metro Manila.
Why Evacuation Centers in Metro Manila Matter
What's Inside
In a densely populated region like Metro Manila, chaos can quickly escalate during a disaster. That’s why having clearly defined evacuation centers is critical. These centers serve as safe zones for displaced residents, staging areas for rescue teams, and hubs for medical and relief operations. Whether you live in Quezon City or Pasay, knowing your nearest evacuation site could be the difference between safety and uncertainty.
Metro Manila Divided into Four Quadrants
To simplify coordination, the MMDA has divided Metro Manila into four zones: North, East, West, and South. Each quadrant has designated evacuation centers in Metro Manila tailored to its geography and population density.
- North Quadrant: Caloocan, Valenzuela, Quezon City, San Juan, Mandaluyong
- Evacuation Centers: Veterans Memorial Golf Course, UP Diliman
- East Quadrant: Pasig, Marikina
- Evacuation Centers: LRT-2 Santolan Depot, Marikina Boys Town, Red Cross Marikina, ULTRA Pasig
- West Quadrant: Manila, Malabon, Navotas
- Evacuation Center: Intramuros Golf Course
- South Quadrant: Las Piñas, Makati, Muntinlupa, Parañaque, Pateros, Taguig, Pasay
- Evacuation Center: Villamor Air Base Golf Course
These locations were chosen for their accessibility, open space, and proximity to major roads and hospitals.
Additional Evacuation Sites You Should Know
Beyond the primary staging areas, local government units (LGUs) have identified supplementary evacuation centers in Metro Manila. These include:
- Sports arenas
- Memorial parks
- Churches
- Public gyms
These facilities will be activated as needed, depending on the scale of the emergency and the number of evacuees. It’s advisable to check with your barangay or city hall for the most updated list of nearby evacuation sites.
How to Prepare Before You Go
Knowing where to go is just one part of the equation. Here are a few tips to make the most of your nearest evacuation center in Metro Manila:
- Pack a go-bag with essentials: water, food, flashlight, medicine, and ID.
- Familiarize yourself with the fastest route to your designated center.
- Coordinate with family members and agree on a meeting point.
- Follow official MMDA and LGU social media channels for real-time updates.
Final Thoughts
Disasters don’t wait for us to be ready. But with proper planning and awareness of evacuation centers in Metro Manila, you can protect yourself and your loved ones when the ground starts to shake. Share this post with your community and help spread life-saving information. Preparedness isn’t just smart—it’s essential. Having your own GoBag/ GrabBago or Emergency Preparedness bag or luggage is also important .
Why You Need a Go Bag (or Go Luggage) — Lessons from Earthquakes and Carmageddon
Emergency Preparedness: What to Pack in Your Go Bag or Go Luggage in the Philippines
PERO ON A SERIOUS NOTE — kahapon ni-replenish ko yung Go Bag / Grab Bag ko. Or more accurately, it’s a Go Luggage. I swapped out the bottled water, canned goods, wet wipes, and updated the medicines. I do this yearly para sure na hindi expired. It’s a small ritual, but one that gives me peace of mind.
I’ve had this emergency bag ever since that unforgettable earthquake in BGC. I had to walk all the way home kasi walang masakyan — total carmageddon. Then came the pandemic, when earthquakes seemed to hit more frequently. Living on the 17th floor, ramdam ko lahat ng uga. That’s when I knew: I needed to be ready.
My Go Luggage is packed for two — for me and my daughter. It’s a hard case, kasi isip ko, kung may gumuho, mas madaling hukayin. Inside, I’ve got:
- ✅ Flashlight
- ✅ Whistle
- ✅ Blanket
- ✅ Can opener
- ✅ Lighter
- ✅ Powerbank
- ✅ Alcohol
- ✅ Knife
- ✅ Ziplocks
- ✅ Extra clothes
- ✅ Towels
- ✅ Diapers
- ✅ Chocolates (Just in case cooking is not an option, you need all the energy to survive and chocolate has it all)
This isn’t just about being paranoid — it’s about being prepared. The recent earthquakes in Mindanao and Central Philippines are proof that disaster can strike anytime. Experts estimate that a major quake in Metro Manila could lead to over 30,000 deaths and 100,000 injuries. That’s why knowing your nearest evacuation centers in Metro Manila and having a ready-to-grab emergency kit is essential.
Whether you call it a Go Bag, Grab Bag, or Go Luggage, the point is: handa ka. It should be easy to carry, stocked with essentials, and tailored to your household’s needs. Include IDs, cash, basic meds, and don’t forget comfort items — especially if you have kids.
So, if you haven’t packed yours yet, now’s the time. Gawa na rin kayo ng #GoBag #GrabBag #GoLuggage nyo. Because when the ground shakes, preparedness isn’t just smart — it’s survival.
#StaySafePH #EmergencyPreparedness #EvacuationCentersInMetroManila