The Department of Science and Technology – Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (DOST-PHIVOLCS) will hold the “PHIVOLCS InfoPress: Understanding and Communicating Geologic Hazards Information in Region XII” on July 29, 2025, 8:00 AM at Greenleaf Hotel, General Santos City.
The seminar is designed for media practitioners and selected public information officers from SOCCSKSARGEN to help improve their understanding of technical and scientific information and effectively communicate it to the public. DOST-PHIVOLCS InfoPress serves as a platform to clarify commonly used geologic terms, to present hazard scenarios in South-Central Mindanao, and to provide guidance on disaster preparedness and response strategies. This activity is part of the Institute’s mission to strengthen science communication and ensure the public receives accurate, consistent, and timely information on geologic hazards related to volcanic eruptions, earthquakes, and tsunamis.
The region’s high risk and past experiences, including the November 17, 2023, Magnitude 6.8 earthquake that affected General Santos City, underscore the need for a clear and reliable science communication towards disaster risk reduction (DRR). This seminar aims to further equip the participants with tools to effectively convey critical information during such events.
The activity is a collaboration among the regional offices of DOST, the Philippine Information Agency (PIA), the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), and the Office of Civil Defense (OCD).
Since its launch in 2021, PHIVOLCS InfoPress has empowered its media partners to become more effective communicators of scientific information during emergencies.
To date, nine activities have already been conducted under this initiative. The upcoming seminar in Region XII marks another important step in reinforcing their role in public awareness and DRR.
The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) is of the attached agencies of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) aimed at providing science-based, innovative, and inclusive solutions across four strategic pillars: human well-being, wealth creation, wealth protection, and sustainability. These pillars embody the mantra OneDOST4U: Solutions, Opportunities for All. For more information, visit www.phivolcs.dost.gov.ph. (By DOST-PHIVOLCS)
