The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) was honored with the 2026 Volcanic Surveillance and Crisis Management Award by the International Association of Volcanology and Chemistry of the Earth’s Interior (IAVCEI). The award was presented during the International Mt. Pinatubo Conference held on June 11, 2026, at Holy Angel University.
Conference and Award Presentation
The conference was organized by the Department of Science and Technology-PHIVOLCS and the Center for Kapampangan Studies, led by Director Myra Lopez, in cooperation with the Angeles City government and Mekeni Food Corporation. IAVCEI Vice President Dr. Marta Calvache presented the award, which recognizes PHIVOLCS' contributions to volcano monitoring, hazard assessment, scientific research, and crisis management.
Recognition of PHIVOLCS' Work
The nomination, spearheaded by retired United States Geological Survey volcanologist Chris Newhall, highlighted PHIVOLCS' critical role during the 1991 Mount Pinatubo eruption and its evolution into a globally recognized volcano observatory. Newhall noted that PHIVOLCS' monitoring and warning systems have helped save over 30,000 lives. The award also acknowledged the agency's partnerships with civil defense officials, community outreach programs, and continuous improvements in monitoring systems.
Supporting nominators included Roderick Mendoza of the Albay Public Safety and Emergency Management Office, Donato Sermeno of the Office of Civil Defense-Negros Region, and Heather Wright of the USGS Volcano Disaster Assistance Program.
Acceptance and Future Commitment
PHIVOLCS Director Teresito “Toto” Bacolcol accepted the award, stating that the recognition honors the agency's personnel who work around the clock to monitor the country’s active volcanoes and protect communities. He added that the award underscores the importance of preserving and documenting lessons from the 1991 Mount Pinatubo eruption to ensure future generations continue to benefit from those experiences.
