Structural evolution of Bondoc–Burias area (South Luzon, Philippines) from seismic data

Abstract Recently acquired 2-D seismic profiles in the offshore area between Bondoc Peninsula and Burias Island, South Luzon, Philippines, are interpreted in the context of known structural styles observed onshore and in relation to paleo- and neo-tectonic regimes in the region. Two distinct seismic sequences can be distinguished relative to their structural style and tectonic significance. The top of a lower sequence shows strongly reflective properties. This unit, correlative to Late Oligocene to Early Miocene limestone bodies observed onshore in Bondoc Peninsula and Burias Island, is affected by intense to moderate superposed folding and thrust faulting. An upper sequence, correlative to a two-member turbiditic and shallower marine clastic deposit widely exposed in Bondoc Peninsula, is affected by thrust faulting and deformation associated with overturned tight folding. The onshore equivalents of these two seismic sequences form the core of a bent anticlinorium that twists from a NW–SE axis in onshore Bondoc into a N–S axis southwards into the southern tip of the peninsula, then back to a NW–SE axis in the offshore region further to the south. Overlying this structural core is a relatively less deformed sequence where syn-sedimentary half-grabens are still preserved in places. This complex structural style is the result of a series of several tectonic events occurring from the Eocene to the Present, involving carbonate build-up, deep water turbidite deposition, consequent compression (folding and faulting), and late-event half graben-controlled deposition. Some resulting structures are indicative of tectonic inversion processes (positive and negative) which may prove to be potentially favorable in the search for structural plays in the area.