The Department of Science and Technology-Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (DOST-PHIVOLCS) in collaboration with DepEd Schools Division of Camiguin held a one-day activity titled, “Training on Communicating PHIVOLCS Information Tools for Elementary Teachers” last June 26, 2019 at the Camiguin Highland Resort in Mambajao, Camiguin. This is part of DOST-PHIVOLCS’ commitment to uphold its duty on improving the capacity of key stakeholders in the schools to engage in and conduct Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) initiatives.

Group photos of participants from DepEd Schools Division of Camiguin elementary school teachers

Fifty-six (56) elementary school teachers and DRR focal persons were trained on how to use and integrate available PHIVOLCS Information Materials and Tools in teaching volcano, earthquake, tsunami and its hazards as well as augmenting school preparedness and mitigation against these geologic hazards. As a concluding activity, the participants were divided into groups and discussed to develop a lesson where they integrate the PHIVOLCS information materials. The selected teacher-participants demonstrated the lessons developed. They integrated these topics in their lessons, utilizing the information materials provided to them. Notably, one group incorporated volcano facts with summation and another tried to combine earthquake preparedness and verbs.

A teacher-participant integrates volcano facts in their mathematics lessons during the demonstration teaching activity

A training kit was distributed to the participants which include printed PHIVOLCS Information Materials and digital copies of lectures on Child’s Right Convention and DRRM, Volcanoes and Volcanic Hazards, Earthquake and Earthquake Hazards, Earthquake Preparedness, How to Conduct Earthquake Drill in School and practical tips on how to integrate these to their lessons.