The Department of Science and Technology-Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (DOST-PHIVOLCS) held a webinar-workshop entitled “PHIVOLCS InfoPress: Communicating Geohazard Information and Proper Response” on 25 March 2021 via Zoom Meeting.

DOST Undersecretary and PHIVOLCS Officer-in-Charge Renato U. Solidum, Jr. encouraged the members of the press and government information officers to partner with the Institute in providing timely and accurate geohazard information to the public.  In his speech, he acknowledged the vital role of the media in helping the public understand the risks through science-based warnings to achieve disaster resilience.

The resource person for the InfoPress, Dr. Ma. Mylene Villegas, Chief Science Research Specialist (SRS) highlighted the importance of public awareness especially before the occurrence of volcanic unrests and earthquakes. She said that we, in partnership with the media,  should take the opportunity to inform and remind the people to prepare for potential risks in the future.

Following the discussions, the participants from various DOST agencies and regional offices, Office of Civil Defense (OCD), and news agencies were divided into six groups for the breakout session. They were assigned with volcanic eruption, earthquake, and tsunami scenarios where they identified the key messages to highlight in news reporting. The group representative/s presented their outputs in the form of role-playing then Usec. Solidum and Dr. Villegas provided feedback and points for takeaway. The workshop aimed to establish collaboration between DOST-PHIVOLCS and the participants in crafting science-based yet understandable warning messages.

DOST-PHIVOLCS will continue to work hand-in-hand with the media to ensure the accuracy and consistency of the messages being relayed to the public that would help them make informed decisions especially during emergencies.