GPS observation of crustal deformation in the Taiwan-Luzon region

Fifteen GPS stations in the Batan-Luzon area were surveyed three times during 1996 to 1998. In order to study crustal deformation in the Taiwan-Luzon region, the data from these annual surveys are processed together with data from 20 permanent stations in the Taiwan area and IGS stations in the Asia-Pacific region, We found that the Chinese continental margin is moving in directions of 102 degrees-112 degrees with rates of 11-12 mm/yr relative to stable Eurasia. There is a significant southward increase in crustal motion with respect to Eurasia along the N-S trend of the Luzon are. In the Coastal Range of Taiwan, the velocity is 53 mm/yr in the direction 313 degrees. Further south at two volcanic islands, Lanhsu and Batan, the velocities increase to 68 mm/yr in the direction 306 degrees and 81 mr/yr in the direction 299 degrees, respectively. In northern Luzon the velocity reaches 86 mm/yr in the direction 301 degrees. Remarkable fault slips of 17-31 mm/yr across the Philippine fault system are detected.