Department of Science and Technology (DOST) (PHIVOLCS) Quezon City. Jonathan Cellona, ABS-CBN News/File

MANILA -- The modernization of the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) is one step closer to becoming a reality after the Senate approved on third and final reading Senate Bill 2825 or the "Phivolcs Modernization Act" with 23 affirmative votes.

The objectives of the bill include the following. 

• Upgrade physical resources and operational 4 standards through the acquisition and development of state-of-the-art instruments, equipment, facilities, and systems to enhance capabilities in providing critical, timely, accurate, and reliable volcanological and seismological data and localized warning and information services;
• Advance research and development capabilities by adopting a systematic approach and integrating all developed methodologies focused on the improvement of vital operations and specialized functions and services;
• Expand volcanological and seismological monitoring stations in strategic sites in the country to broaden the base for the delivery of services in the countryside;
• Strengthen a state-of-the-art data center consistent with international standards, in order to centralize the provision of volcanic, earthquake, tsunami, and other related information to the public and stakeholders involved in Disaster Risk Reduction and 8 Management (DRRM);
• Facilitate the appreciation and enhance delivery of information, products, and services, including education and advocacy on geoscience and geotectonic phenomena, their dangers and impacts, and the risks and vulnerabilities of communities and the different sectors of society to decision makers, national and local DRRM planning, media, and the general public towards sustainable socio-economic development; 
• Strengthen linkages and cooperation at the national level among the various providers and users of geological, seismological, and other services 
• Provide opportunities for continuous learning and improvement of the knowledge, skills, and capacities of PHIVOLCS personnel 
• Provide a more competitive base pay and benefits for the PHIVOLCS personnel to promote professionalism and commitment to the service
   

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Congress will appropriate P7 billion for the modernization program. 

The Director of Phivolcs, Secretary of the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) and the Director General of the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) are tasked to formulate and oversee the implementation of the modernization program.

The program will be implemented for a period of five years. 

Sen. Joel Villanueva praised the approval of the bill. 

"Modernizing Phivolcs is not merely an investment in science and technology, it is an investment in the safety and resilience of our nation. We must not wait for another tragedy to remind us of the importance of preparedness," Villanueva said during Tuesday's session. 

A similar bill was approved by the House of Representatives on third and final reading last year. Provisions of both bills will be deliberated on before it is sent to the President for his signature.

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