Phivolcs, Mati City officials team up vs tsunamis

Inquirer files

MANILA, Philippines — In observance of World Tsunami Preparedness Day on Nov. 5, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) has signed a memorandum of understanding with the local government of Mati City in Davao Oriental to raise awareness and prepare coastal communities for tsunamis.

The signing was led by Phivolcs Director Teresito Bacolcol and Mati City Administrator Allan Andrada who represented Mayor Michelle Rabat.

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“Of the 26 barangays, we have 15 coastal barangays … So imagine more than half of the barangays in the City of Mati are vulnerable,” Andrada said. “So we need your (Phivolcs) help.”

Under the collaboration, Phivolcs conducted various events aimed at raising awareness of tsunamis, including a seminar on earthquake and tsunami hazards as well as community preparedness. —Gillian Villanueva