Senate approves Phivolcs modernization bill

Senate approves Phivolcs modernization bill

/ 04:24 PM January 14, 2025

Kanlaon Volcano: 6 ash emissions, 23 volcanic quakes in 24 hours

(Screenshot from the record of Kanlaon Volcano Observatory – VKMN IP Camera via Phivolcs/Facebook)

MANILA, Philippines — The Senate on Tuesday approved on third and final reading a bill on the modernization of the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs). 

Senate Bill No. 2825 under Committee Report No. 322 was approved during the chamber’s plenary session. 

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Sen. Joel Villanueva, one of the measure’s co-sponsors, stood before his colleagues to explain his vote. 

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Villanueva said he has long recognized the critical role that Phivolcs fulfills in monitoring seismic and volcanic hazards and the level of resources and support the agency needs to effectively fulfill their mandate. 

“This is why we vote yes to this measure, which ensures that Phivolcs is equipped with the equipment, technology, and personnel needed for timely and accurate disaster data collection. With this measure, the capacity of Phivolcs would be strengthened to expand their monitoring network, enhance their research, and support the professionalization and growth of their personnel,” he said. 

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In addition, he emphasized the timely passage of the bill ahead of the full implementation of Phivolcs’ technical cooperation with the Japan International Cooperation Agency titled “The Project for Capacity Development for Monitoring and Information Dissemination of Earthquake, Tsunami, and Volcano,” which is expected to begin in 2025.

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“A modernized Phivolcs would be able to maximize this partnership to improve the country’s disaster preparedness,” said Villanueva.

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“Modernizing Phivolcs is not merely an investment in science and technology – it is an investment in the safety and resilience of our nation. We must not wait for another tragedy to remind us of the importance of preparedness,” he said.

Under the bill, the Phivolcs modernization program shall have the following objectives: 

  • Upgrade physical resources and operational standards through the acquisition and development of state-of-the-art instruments, equipment, facilities and systems to enhance capabilities in providing critical, timely, accurate and reliable volcanological and seismological data and localized warning and information services for decision-support in disaster preparedness, climate change adaptation, the security and management of water resources, agriculture, transportation, health, tourism and other sectors
  •  Advance research and development capabilities by adopting a systematic approach and integrating all developed methodologies focused on the improvement of vital operations and specialized functions and services
  • Expand volcanological and seismological monitoring stations on strategic sites in the country to broaden the base for the delivery of services in the countryside
  • Strengthen a state-of-the-art data center consistent with international standards, in order to centralize the provision of volcanic, earthquake, tsunami and other related information to the public and stakeholders involved in Disaster Risk Reduction and Management
  • Facilitate the appreciation and enhance delivery of information, products and services, including education and advocacy on geoscience and geotectonic phenomena, their dangers and impacts, and the risks and vulnerabilities of communities and the different sectors of society to decision makers, national and local DRRM planning, media, and the general public towards sustainable socio economic development
  • Strengthen linkages and cooperation at the national level among the various providers and users of geological, seismological and other services
  • Provide a more competitive base pay and benefits for the Phivolcs personnel to promote professionalism and commitment to the service.
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TAGS: Phivolcs, Senate

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