President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has officially signed into law Republic Act No. 12180 — the PHIVOLCS Modernization Act, which brings a major upgrade to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology.
The new law paves the way for improved disaster monitoring across the country by equipping PHIVOLCS with modern instruments, highly skilled personnel, and more seismic monitoring stations, especially in high-risk areas.
This move aims to strengthen PHIVOLCS’ ability to deliver precise, real-time data and localized alerts for natural disasters like earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. The modernization also supports decision-making in disaster preparedness, climate change response, agriculture, health, tourism, and other key sectors.
Part of the law’s goals is to expand the agency’s reach by building more monitoring stations in strategic locations nationwide, ensuring faster and more accurate data collection in both urban and rural areas.
The law also emphasizes improved working conditions and competitive pay for PHIVOLCS staff, aiming to boost professionalism and dedication within the agency.
Key components of the modernization plan include:
- Upgrading physical facilities and systems
- Enhancing the volcano and earthquake monitoring networks
- Strengthening disaster-related information systems
- Developing research and conservation strategies for protecting infrastructure
To fund this initiative, a P7-billion PHIVOLCS Modernization Fund has been set up, separate from the Department of Science and Technology’s regular budget, under the national budget law.