Manila — In a significant move towards enhancing the country's disaster preparedness, the House of Representatives has passed the second reading of a bill aimed at modernizing the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs).
According to Philippines News Agency, House Committee on Science and Technology chairperson and Aklan Representative Carlito Marquez, the proposed Phivolcs Modernization Act (House Bill 10730) was approved through voice voting during Wednesday's session. The bill seeks to significantly upgrade Phivolcs' capabilities in monitoring and warning against volcanic activities, earthquakes, and tsunamis by acquiring and updating instruments, equipment, facilities, and systems. "To efficiently adapt to modern times, Phivolcs must enhance its capability and capacity in providing services that protect our people. There is an urgent need to modernize, upgrade and expand their personnel, ensuring that they are equipped and trained to operate new cutting-edge technology," Marquez emphasized in his sponsorship speech.
The proposed legislation outlines the creation of a Phivolcs Modernization Fund, totaling PHP 7 billion, sourced from the shares of national government earnings from various government-owned enterprises. This fund will support the overhaul of Phivolcs’ infrastructure and the training of its personnel.
Additionally, the bill proposes a new salary scale and a Personnel Retention Incentive for qualified Phivolcs staff to attract and retain top scientists in the field. It also aims to strengthen the agency's Human Resource Development Program.
Marquez highlighted the importance of collaboration between Phivolcs and local government units to tailor disaster preparedness plans to the specific needs of local communities, enhancing overall resilience to natural disasters. "What does this mean for the local government units? Phivolcs will play a crucial role in enhancing their disaster preparedness plans, ensuring that risk communication with their constituents is clear, effective, and timely," he concluded.