The Pacific Ring of Fire: the Philippines and Its Nature's Crossroads

This posting is inspired from a recent suggestion of a closed relative that I do write a blog post on the subject, since I have never written this topic in my blogs since 2009.  Yesterday earthquake in Russia's Kamchatka Peninsula ( also in the Ring of Fire ) adds the appropriateness of this topic💚 in my blog today.

The Pacific Ring of Fire: The Philippines at Nature’s Crossroads

The Pacific Ring of Fire is Earth's most volatile seismic belt, wrapping around the Pacific Ocean in a fiery loop of tectonic tension. Right in its midst sits the Philippines, a country both enriched and endangered by this geology. Known for its stunning landscapes and fertile soils, the Philippines also faces relentless threats of earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and tsunamis — consequences of living atop the Earth’s most restless region.

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🔥 Why Is the Philippines in the Hot Zone?

The Philippine archipelago straddles the Philippine Sea Plate, the Eurasian Plate, and the Pacific Plate, making it a seismic hotspot. Constant tectonic friction gives rise to:

• Earthquakes:
  Over 20,000 earthquakes occur annually in the Philippines, though only a fraction are felt.

  • Example: The 1990 Luzon Earthquake (Magnitude 7.8) devastated Central Luzon, killing over 1,600 people and causing massive infrastructure damage.

• Volcanic Eruptions:
  Home to 24 active volcanoes, the Philippines regularly faces eruptions.

  • Example: Mount Pinatubo’s 1991 eruption, the second-largest of the 20th century, spewed ash worldwide, causing global temperatures to drop temporarily.

• Tsunamis:
  Underwater earthquakes and volcanic activity trigger tsunamis along the Philippine coasts.

  • Example: The 1976 Moro Gulf Tsunami remains the deadliest in Philippine history, with over 8,000 casualties.

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📅 Historical Timeline of Major Disasters in the Philippines

Year	Event	Impact
1645	Luzon Earthquake	Destroyed Manila’s structures including churches
1814	Mayon Volcano Eruption	Buried towns, killing 1,200+ people
1976	Moro Gulf Earthquake & Tsunami	8,000+ deaths in Mindanao
1990	Luzon Earthquake	Magnitude 7.8, 1,600+ deaths, severe infrastructure damage
1991	Mount Pinatubo Eruption	Global climate impact, 800 deaths, ashfall worldwide
2013	Bohol Earthquake	Magnitude 7.2, destroyed centuries-old churches
2020	Taal Volcano Eruption	Thousands evacuated, widespread ashfall

I was in the Philippines ( Manila) vacationing when Mt Pinatubo Erupted in 1991. 

✅ Essential Survival Tips for Earthquakes, Tsunamis, and Volcanic Eruptions

Earthquake Survival Tips

• Drop, Cover, and Hold On: Protect your head and neck under sturdy furniture.

• Stay Indoors: Move away from windows and heavy objects.

• Prepare an Emergency Kit: Include water, food, flashlight, and a whistle.

💚Tsunami Preparedness

• Move to Higher Ground Immediately: After a strong coastal earthquake.

• Heed Sirens and Warnings: Follow official instructions promptly.

• Know Evacuation Routes: Pre-plan safe exits if you live near the coast.

Volcanic Eruption Safety

• Wear Masks: To protect against ash inhalation.

• Stay Indoors: Ash can cause respiratory problems and damage electronics.

• Follow Evacuation Orders: Volcanic activity can escalate rapidly.

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🌋 The Paradox of Beauty and Danger

The same geological forces responsible for this chaos also gift the Philippines with picturesque landscapes, rich minerals, and fertile lands. Volcanoes like Mayon, with its perfect cone, are tourist attractions, while fertile volcanic soil sustains agriculture.

Yet, the Filipino spirit of resilience and preparedness shines brightest in these times. Institutions like PHIVOLCS and PAGASA continuously monitor and educate citizens, helping communities adapt to nature's unpredictable might.

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✅ Conclusion

The Philippines' place in the Pacific Ring of Fire is both a geographic curse and a cultural crucible. Filipinos continue to adapt, prepare, and persevere, living in respect and awe of the earth's volatile forces. With vigilance and science on their side, the country continues to balance life between beauty and the brink of disaster.

Meanwhile, here's My Photo of the Day

 

Lastly, here are some of my favorite quotes on Mountains and Nature 

Mountains: 

1. “The mountains are calling and I must go.”
   — John Muir
2. “Climb the mountains and get their good tidings. Nature’s peace will flow into you as sunshine flows into trees.”
   — John Muir
3. “Somewhere between the bottom of the climb and the summit is the answer to the mystery why we climb.”
   — Greg Child
4. “Mountains teach that not everything in this world can be rationally explained.”
   — Aleksander Lwow
5. “The top of one mountain is always the bottom of another.”
   — Marianne Williamson

 

Nature:

 

6. “In every walk with nature one receives far more than he seeks.”
   — John Muir
7. “Look deep into nature, and then you will understand everything better.”
   — Albert Einstein
8. “And into the forest I go, to lose my mind and find my soul.”
   — John Muir (attributed)
9. “To sit in the shade on a fine day, and look upon verdure, is the most perfect refreshment.”
   — Jane Austen
10. “Nature does not hurry, yet everything is accomplished.”
    — Lao Tzu

 

Monster Earthquake Struck Russia

Here’s the latest news on the magnitude 8.7 (later upgraded to 8.8) earthquake that struck off Russia’s Kamchatka Peninsula on July 30, 2025:

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🌍 Earthquake & Tsunami Overview

• A powerful 8.7 magnitude earthquake, later revised to 8.8, occurred off Russia’s Kamchatka Peninsula, around 125–126 km southeast of Petropavlovsk‑Kamchatsky, at a very shallow depth of ~19 km, amplifying surface impact KSL+14Reuters+14The Economic Times+14.

• Kamchatka’s governor described it as “the strongest in decades.” While no deaths have been reported, a kindergarten was damaged and minor injuries occurred during evacuations KSL+4Reuters+4Indiatimes+4.

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⚠️ Tsunami Waves & Alerts

• Tsunami waves reaching up to 3–4 meters (10–13 feet) were measured along Kamchatka’s coast, and the small town of Severo‑Kurilsk experienced flooding as evacuation orders were carried outKSL+6Reuters+6Indiatimes+6.

• In Japan, the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) issued warnings for eastern Hokkaido, forecasting waves up to 3 meters, prompting coastal evacuations. The first waves were expected between ~1:00–2:30 UTCABC+7The Wall Street Journal+7Indiatimes+7.

• The U.S. National Tsunami Warning Center and Pacific Tsunami Warning Center issued alerts covering Hawaii, Alaska (Aleutians and panhandle), California, Oregon, Washington, plus Guam, Micronesia, and other Pacific island nations. Coastal evacuations were ordered in Honolulu, HawaiiABC+2People.com+2Indiatimes+2.

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🔍 Additional Impacts & Aftershocks

• Shaking was noticeable in major population centers: in Petropavlovsk‑Kamchatsky, residents ran into the streets barefoot as furniture toppled and power and phone services failed www.ndtv.com+7ABC+7KSL+7.

• Multiple significant aftershocks followed, registering magnitudes between 5.4 and 6.9 People.com.

• Officials have stated stronger aftershocks are not expected in the near term, and there are no signs of broader escalation ReutersKSL.

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✅ Summary Table

Region	Tsunami Risk	Actions Taken
Kamchatka, Russia	3–4 m waves	Evacuations in Severo‑Kurilsk; damage reported
Japan (Hokkaido coast)	Up to ~3 m waves	JMA issued evacuations along Pacific coast
Pacific region (U.S., Guam)	Advisories/watches	Alerts/U.S. West Coast & Hawaii evacuations; Guam on watch
Pacific island nations	Watch status	High alert issued across Micronesia, etc.

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📌 Bottom Line

• The earthquake occurred on July 30, 2025, with an upgraded magnitude of 8.8.

• It triggered widespread tsunami alerts and evacuations across the Pacific Ocean, including Japan, Russia, Hawaii, Alaska, U.S. West Coast, Guam, and Micronesia.

• So far, no fatalities, but structural damage and minor injuries have been reported.

• Authorities continue to monitor aftershocks and sea levels closely, urging residents to stay away from coastlines.

Let me know if you’d like updates on aftershocks, more regional impacts, or official advisories from any specific local agencies.

Related news on the Kamchatka quake

Reuters

Powerful quake in Russia's Far East causes tsunami, Japan and Hawaii order evacuations

Today

People.com

Tsunami Alert Issued for Entire U.S. West Coast, Evacuation Order Issued for Honolulu After 8.8-Magnitude Earthquake

Today

Indiatimes

Check full list of tsunami danger zones after Russia's 8.7 quake: Japan, Hawaii, US West Coast and Pacific islands on high alert

Today

Meanwhile, here's My Photo of the Day   

Lastly, here's a list of the top 25 Tourist Attractions in the World 

Living in the Now- Reflections from A 90-year Old Influencer

This posting is inspired from my recent conversation with a Fellow Resident💚:

I moved to an active Senior Living Community with about 150 senior citizens ranging from their early 70's,  to a dozen nonagenarians and one or two centenarians about 2.5 years ago. I have witnessed several residents deterioration from an active senior to one who needs assistance within that time period. This was a result of few incidents, specifically the start of early dementia/memory loss and from an accidental Falls that lead to hospitalization.  I felt bad witnessing the slow decline and deterioration of once active bodies to a frail ones. And  I often wonder if I am next in line. 

Here's a thoughtful and heartfelt blog post that captures my perspective, strength, and honesty, while offering inspiration to others in similar stages of life:

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"Living in the Now: Reflections from a 90-Year-Old Influencer"

There’s a certain quiet wisdom that settles in when you live long enough to see your peers slowly disappear—not from your life completely, but from the level of vitality you once shared together.

I moved into a vibrant senior living community 2.5 years ago, joining about 150 other residents, each with their own stories, laughs, quirks, and histories. We are a mosaic of experience, ranging from the young-at-heart in their early 70s to the still-spirited centenarians. But over time, I’ve seen a shift. The sparkle in some eyes dims. Conversations grow shorter. And sometimes, a fall or a flicker of forgetfulness is the quiet turning point that leads a friend from independence to needing full-time assistance.

Witnessing this transformation is not easy. I find myself wondering—not with fear, but with curiosity—am I next?

It’s a thought that visits me now and then. Not every day, but often enough to become a quiet companion in the back of my mind. Yet I’ve come to accept that these reflections are part of being fully alive, especially in this chapter of life.

So how do I cope? I choose to live now.

I refuse to look at the future as a looming shadow. Instead, I see it as a quiet unknown—one that doesn’t need to steal the joy of today. My current philosophy is simple: Act in the present and don’t anticipate a bleak future.

I’m proud to say that at 90, I am still mentally sharp. I write a daily blog with readers around the world. My youngest daughter affectionately calls me “The 90-Year-Old Influencer”—a title that makes me chuckle, but also reminds me that influence isn’t measured by age, but by perspective.

And here’s mine:

• I savor my morning coffee as if it were brewed by angels.

• I take walks and look at the trees and flowers in our Court Yard like I’m seeing them for the first time.

• I read books, newspapers and write thoughts as if the world still needs to hear what I have to say—because maybe it does.

• I laugh with my fellow Residents and honor their stories, even as some of those stories begin to slip away from them. I play bridge and mahjong to sharpen my mind and to the best of my ability

When the feelings of sadness or fear creep in, I acknowledge them. I don’t push them away. But I also don’t let them drive the bus. I tell them, “Thanks for the visit—but I’m busy living today.”

To those who may feel the same sense of uncertainty in senior communities like mine: You are not alone. Aging isn’t a downhill slope—it’s a narrowing path that calls us to pay closer attention to each step, each breath, each kindness, each memory.

If I can leave you with one message, it’s this:

Be present, be kind, and leave a footprint—not of fear, but of grace.

Tomorrow may be unknown. But today? Today is still ours.

But Ouch! My legs are really aching today! Where's My Tylenol?

by DAVID B KATAGUE— The 90-Year-Old Influencer

Meanwhile, here's a painting of Tinikling by Fernando Amorsolo, Oil on canvas, 1950

In his 1950 piece “Tinikling”, National Artist Fernando Amorsolo captures more than just a dance - he paints the heartbeat of the Filipino countryside.

Set against a radiant rural backdrop, the painting features young woman in traditional Filipiniana gracefully performing the Tinikling, the Philippines’ iconic folk dance. With bamboo poles clapping in rhythm and villagers gathered in festive spirit, Amorsolo brings the scene to life through his signature use of warm sunlight and realistic detail.

This work is a celebration of Filipino tradition- of movement, music, and community. More than just an artwork, Tinikling preserves a cultural treasure, portraying the joy, harmony, and identity found in rural Philippine life.

Lastly, My Photo of the Day: Marsha💚 and I Dancing!

Lunar Occultation of Mars Today

Watch this Rare Event After Sunset

A rare celestial spectacle is about to unfold, and you won’t want to miss it.

On this night, the Moon will pass incredibly close to Mars, creating a lunar occultation — a fascinating event where the Moon temporarily hides the Red Planet from view.

What’s happening?

The Moon will move in front of Mars, causing the planet to disappear behind it for a brief period. This is known as a lunar occultation, and it’s a stunning, rare cosmic alignment you’ll want to catch.

Where to watch:

Depending on your location, you could experience:

• Mars disappearing completely behind the Moon (full occultation)

• Or a close conjunction, with both celestial bodies appearing side-by-side in the sky.

How to watch:

• No telescope required — but binoculars or a zoom lens will give you a clearer view.

• Look toward the eastern sky shortly after sunset for the best view.

• Use astronomy apps to pinpoint the perfect time in your location.

Why this matters:

Lunar occultations involving bright planets like Mars are incredibly rare, making this event a must-see for skywatchers, astrophotographers, and space enthusiasts alike. It's a chance to witness two worlds aligning in the sky, and trust us — it’ll be breathtaking.

Today's rare event is called  the lunar occultation of Mars—a rare and mesmerizing event where the Moon passes in front of Mars, temporarily covering most or all of it from view. This particular event occurred today, July 28, 2025, making it a striking celestial moment for many observers. YouTube+10Facebook+10Daily Galaxy+10. Here's what my AI search says of this event. 

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🌓 What’s Happening

• On July 28, a waxing crescent Moon (about 19% illuminated) rose in the west not long after sunset and drifted very close to Mars—within approximately 1°, or the width of your little finger at arm’s length. EarthSky+3Live Science+3When the Curves Line Up+3

• In some places around the globe (particularly parts of the Americas, and certain regions in Africa and Antarctica), the Moon passed directly in front of Mars, causing a brief occultation where Mars disappeared behind the lunar limb and later re-emerged. Orbital Today

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🗺 Where and When It Was Visible

• Occultation Visibility: Only visible from a narrow strip of locations, including western South America, western Africa, and southern polar regions. In-The-Sky.orgLinkedIn

• Conjunction (Close Pass): From most places worldwide, including North America and Europe, the Moon and Mars appeared to pass in very close proximity—no covering, but a stunning near‑contact. When the Curves Line Up+14Live Science+14Orbital Today+14

• From your perspective (Calif. / Walnut Creek), this event would have appeared as a striking conjunction—Mars close to the Moon, but not fully covered. EarthSkySpace

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✨ Viewing Details & Tips

• Timing: About 45 minutes after sunset, both Mars and the crescent Moon rose high enough over the western horizon to be easily seen together. Orbital Today+13Live Science+13Facebook+13

• What to Look For:

  • Mars as a bright reddish “star”—easy to spot even without magnification.

  • Earthshine on the Moon—a faint, ghostly glow on the dark side lit by sunlight reflecting off Earth. Orbital Today+6EarthSky+6RASC Hamilton+6

• Best Tools: Lightweight gear like 10×50 binoculars or a small telescope can capture the subtle lunar features and Mars’s disappearance/reappearance if in the right location. SpaceIn-The-Sky.org

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🌌 Why It’s Special

• Lunar occultations of bright planets like Mars are relatively rare—they depend on precise orbital alignments and visibility from specific regions on Earth. In-The-Sky.org+8In-The-Sky.org+8RASC Hamilton+8

• Occurring near Mars opposition (when Mars is closest to Earth), the planet is exceptionally bright, making the visual impact greater. Live ScienceHigh Point Scientific

• For those in the occultation path, it’s a true slow‑motion eclipse—a planet vanishing behind the Moon and reappearing minutes later.

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🔭 Summary at a Glance

Feature	Details
Event	Lunar occultation (Moon covering Mars) or very close conjunction
Date	July 28, 2025
Moon phase	~19% waxing crescent
Visibility	Conjunction visible widely; occultation only from certain regions
View from Walnut Creek	Close conjunction; likely no full occultation
Equipment	Naked eye, binoculars or small telescope for best detail
Notable effect	Earthshine visible on Moon’s dark si

Meanwhile, here's my photo of the Day...Flowering Red Trumpet Vine

Lastly, Our THD August, 2025 Calendar cover Featuring Photos from our Hawaiian Luau last year