Introduction

Vital Engineering Lessons from the Earthquake of July 16, 1990
David C. Hopkins, BE(Hons).PhD Ceng, FIPENZ MICE
Director KRTA Limited, Wellington New Zealand
Currently Program Technical Specialist, Earthquake Reconstruction Project DPWH, Manila

INTRODUCTION

The earthquake of July 16, 1990 was notable for its widespread effects and range of types of damage. As such it provides a unique opportunity for engineers to review their approaches to seismic resistant design.

This paper results from the author's involvement in a technical reconnaissance visit immediately after the earthquake, and his subsequent role in the Philippine Government's Earthquake Reconstruction Project. Damage, and lack of damage, has been viewed first hand. Reconstruction, and strengthening measures have been reviewed and observed on a range of projects. Contact with local consultants and government engineers has provided further insights into the effects of the earthquake and the key issues faced in the design and construction of seismic resistant buildings and infrastructure.

There is much to be gained by sharing and discussing the effects of the July 16 Earthquake, and it is hoped that the following observations will assist in providing buildings and infrastructure of increasingly better seismic performance.

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