MANILA, Philippines – President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has signed into law the PHIVOLCS Modernization Act, aimed at boosting the country’s disaster preparedness.
Law to Boost Monitoring and Equipment
The measure, known as Republic Act No. 12180, upgrades the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS).
It mandates the acquisition of state-of-the-art equipment, more seismic stations, and better personnel training to improve disaster response.
PHIVOLCS will enhance its capacity to detect earthquakes and volcanic events, especially in vulnerable and remote communities.
Modernization Program Details
The law seeks to improve physical resources by acquiring new instruments, tools, systems, and facilities for real-time disaster data.
These upgrades will help PHIVOLCS deliver critical and timely information to guide decisions during emergencies and climate-related events.
Sectors such as agriculture, health, tourism, and transportation are expected to benefit from more accurate early warning systems.
Support for Research and Rural Expansion
The act also pushes for improved research and development, using unified scientific methods to support better operations.
PHIVOLCS will expand its monitoring network to strategic locations nationwide, ensuring better service to provinces and rural areas.
Personnel and Funding Enhancements
The law proposes higher base pay and benefits to help attract and retain highly skilled technical staff and researchers.
A PHIVOLCS Modernization Fund will support these upgrades. Congress has appropriated ₱7 billion for the program.
This amount is separate from PHIVOLCS’ regular budget under the Department of Science and Technology.