ILOILO — Fears of structural damage to the Iloilo provincial capitol were laid to rest after the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Region 6 confirmed that the cracks that appeared on the building following the magnitude 4.4 earthquake on October 15 were only superficial.
DPWH officer-in-charge regional director Jose Al Fruto said results of two non-destructive tests — the Rebound Hammer Test and the Ultrasonic Pulse Velocity (UPV) Test — showed no sign of internal damage to the Capitol’s structure.
“Based on these detailed assessments, we have concluded that the observed cracks are only superficial and limited to the plaster finish. As such, there is no immediate structural concern regarding the safety of the building. We can confidently declare that the Iloilo Provincial Capitol is safe for continued occupancy and operations,” Fruto stated.
The DPWH conducted the tests immediately after the quake in response to concerns raised by both the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) and residents who noticed cracks on the Capitol walls.
The Rebound Hammer Test, which measures surface hardness as an indicator of concrete strength, showed an average compressive strength of 57 megapascals (MPa) or about 8,200 pounds per square inch (psi) — well above the design threshold of 6,000 psi.
Meanwhile, the UPV Test — which uses ultrasonic sound waves to measure the depth of cracks — revealed that the fissures were confined only to the 30–35 millimeter plaster coating, confirming they were non-structural.
DPWH engineers said the findings affirm the Capitol’s stability and the high quality of materials used in its construction.
The quick assessment was coordinated with Provincial Engineer Romeo Andig, ensuring that the building’s safety was verified before employees and visitors resumed normal activities.
The Iloilo Provincial Government, meanwhile, continues to monitor other public infrastructure across the province for any damage related to the earthquake.
Officials said the all-clear finding not only reassures the public but also demonstrates the importance of scientific testing and transparency in maintaining confidence in government facilities./PN
