PHIVOLCS AVP

Summary

The Philippines, located in the Pacific Ring of Fire, faces frequent natural disasters such as volcanic eruptions, earthquakes, and tsunamis. To mitigate these risks, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) monitors and predicts geological events. Established in 1982, PHIVOLCS works to ensure public safety through early warnings, disaster preparedness, and hazard assessments. With dedicated divisions for volcano, earthquake, and tsunami monitoring, as well as a quick-response team, PHIVOLCS plays a crucial role in helping communities stay resilient against these destructive forces of nature.

Takeaways

• 😀 The Philippines is highly vulnerable to natural hazards like volcanic eruptions, earthquakes, and tsunamis due to its location in the Pacific Ring of Fire.
• 😀 The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) plays a crucial role in monitoring and mitigating these natural disasters.
• 😀 PHIVOLCS was established to safeguard public safety by studying and monitoring geotectonic and volcanic activities.
• 😀 The agency's mission is to provide timely and quality information for disaster preparedness, early warning, and risk mitigation.
• 😀 PHIVOLCS was officially formed in 1982, integrating both volcanic and seismic monitoring after the 1951 eruption of the Heok Heok Volcano.
• 😀 The institute is responsible for monitoring 23 active volcanoes and conducting earthquake and tsunami monitoring.
• 😀 PHIVOLCS is made up of five main divisions: volcano monitoring, earthquake prediction, geology and geophysics research, disaster awareness, and finance and administration.
• 😀 The volcano monitoring division tracks real-time data from the country's eight most active volcanoes to provide early warnings of potential eruptions.
• 😀 The seismological division is responsible for monitoring and providing information on earthquakes and tsunamis 24/7.
• 😀 In the event of a volcanic eruption or earthquake, PHIVOLCS deploys quick-response teams consisting of scientists, engineers, and social scientists to educate the public and assist in risk reduction efforts.

Q & A

What are some of the major natural hazards that the Philippines is vulnerable to?

The Philippines is particularly vulnerable to volcanic eruptions, earthquakes, and tsunamis. These hazards are due to the country's location along the Pacific Ring of Fire, a region known for frequent seismic and volcanic activity.

What is the role of the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS)?

PHIVOLCS is tasked with studying, investigating, and monitoring geotectonic and volcanic activities that pose risks to public safety. It works to mitigate the impact of disasters caused by volcanic eruptions, earthquakes, and tsunamis.

What is the vision of PHIVOLCS?

PHIVOLCS' vision is to become a leading global science and technology institution that helps develop communities that are safe from and resilient to volcanic eruptions, earthquakes, tsunamis, and other related hazards.

When did earthquake and volcano monitoring begin in the Philippines?

Earthquake and volcano monitoring in the Philippines dates back to 1880, when seismological observations began under the Manila Observatory. Over the years, various agencies evolved to focus on these issues.

What significant event led to the creation of the Commission of Volcanology (CONVOL)?

The violent eruption of Heok Heok Volcano in 1951, which killed hundreds of people, highlighted the need for a dedicated agency to study volcanic eruptions. This led to the formation of the Commission of Volcanology (CONVOL) the following year.

What is the importance of PHIVOLCS' staff and internal strategies?

PHIVOLCS relies on a skilled and motivated staff, as well as effective internal strategies, to carry out its disaster monitoring and mitigation efforts. These strategies include hiring experts, developing their skills, and implementing efficient systems to achieve its objectives.

How does PHIVOLCS monitor volcanic eruptions in the Philippines?

PHIVOLCS operates real-time, integrated multi-parameter volcano monitoring systems at the country's eight most active volcanoes. These systems help in monitoring volcanic activity and issuing early warnings to the public.

What role does the Seismological Observation and Earthquake Prediction Division play at PHIVOLCS?

This division is responsible for national earthquake monitoring, early warning, and tsunami monitoring. It operates 24/7, analyzing data from seismic stations and providing real-time information to government agencies and the public.

How does PHIVOLCS help in disaster preparedness and risk reduction?

PHIVOLCS conducts various programs for disaster preparedness and risk reduction, including educating the public, providing warnings for volcanic eruptions, earthquakes, and tsunamis, and developing communication strategies to inform affected communities.

What actions does PHIVOLCS take in response to volcanic unrest or a large earthquake?

PHIVOLCS deploys quick response teams, consisting of geologists, seismologists, volcanologists, engineers, and social scientists, to affected areas. These teams monitor and study the geologic event, educate the public on safety measures, and help mitigate the impact of the disaster.