The Manila Times
MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) is set to conduct a communication campaign aimed at enhancing the capacity of public information officers and media practitioners in reporting science-based information on geologic hazards. Phivolcs Director Teresito Bacolcol in a Viber interview with The Manila Times on Tuesday said the information drive, which would focus on volcanic eruptions, earthquakes and tsunamis, would be held on April 29, 2026 in Naga City, Camarines Sur. Bacolcol said the activity sought to boost the capability of media practitioners and public information officers based in Bicol (Region 5) to effectively communicate science-based information on geologic hazards. According to the state seismology bureau, Region 5 is home to active volcanoes, specifically Mayon in Albay province which is currently under Alert Level 3; and Bulusan in Sorsogon, under Alert Level 1. These volcanoes pose recurring threats from ashfall, lava flows, and pyroclastic density currents, Phivolcs said. The region is also traversed by active faults capable of generating strong earthquakes that may result in ground shaking, liquefaction, earthquake-induced landslides, casualties, and damage to properties, it said. In addition, coastal areas remain vulnerable to tsunamis triggered by the movement of the Philippine Trench, Phivolcs added. “Given these situations, a clear and locally relevant hazard communication is essential. Misinterpretation or misreporting of geohazard information can lead to confusion or unnecessary panic among the public,” the Phivolcs chief said. He said Phivolcs and its mother agency – Department of Science and Technology (DOST) under the stewardship of former Phivolcs Director and now Secretary Renato Solidum Jr. – acknowledged the crucial role of information officers and media practitioners as key partners in the dissemination of accurate, reliable, and timely information before, during, and after significant geohazard events. Solidum, in separate interview, cited the importance of the information campaign as it promoted responsible science communication, enhances public education and supports informed decision-making of the concerned local government units. “It also contributes to efforts for disaster risk reduction in vulnerable communities across the Bicol Region,” the DOST chief said. Bacolcol said the "Phivolcs InfoPress" was organized in collaboration with DOST’s regional offices, Philippine Information Agency and Office of Civil Defense.
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